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Dog Commands.

Dog Heel Command.

How to execute the heel command correctly and effortlessly.


DBT highly recommends the Dove Cresswell Dog Training Video Course for training your dog.




Heel Command

Different from the "sit" and "down" commands which should be being used on your dog several times during the day already, walking to your left side is a bit trickier and more difficult. In most cases your dog will not see the point of it. Most people teach their dog this command by repeatedly pulling back on their leash while repeating the command. In the end this doesn't make lots of sense to the dog as they are probably wondering why you are pulling them back all the time. Most dogs will probably pull more to get away from the pressure that is being applied, and they may even be chocked by this.

The best way to teach your dog this command is to guarantee that they know why it is they are doing it and why they should be walking with a slack leash. A step in the right direction is to hold the lead correctly. Make sure that you put the thumb of your right hand through the lead, and then make sure that your hand is closed around the loop. Then rest your hand at the area of your belly button - relax your hand in this position.

The job of your right hand is to hold the lead, and hold the lead only; it should not be used for doing anything else and should not be pulled in all directions. The active hand in this case will be your left hand. You will make use of your left hand to direct your dog in many different ways.

If you use the leash to signal to your dog that you are making changes in pace and direction such as sidesteps and turns to begin with, they will learn to look where you are moving next and pay more attention to you presence and thus begin to learn the reason for walking by your side. If he stops watching you, make sure you quickly tighten the lead to make him aware of your presence again. After he has been made aware, make sure to give your dog plenty of praise in the form of cuddles and treats. In the end the goal is for your dog to walk comfortably on your left side with his head being the same height as that of your knee. The lead should also be loose, and the dog should follow you without any trouble.

It is important to know that words contain no magic when teaching your dog new commands; dogs do not understand specific languages. Words will not matter - you should only make sure that you are completely clear on what you want them to do. Make sure that you are certain about what you want form your dog, and express this clearly to them, following it with a reward if necessary. You can even teach your dog to sit down by using the word "car" and not "sit". Use whatever words works for you and your dog.

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