by Rhonda Erickson

Created on: May 10, 2008

"The No Dragging, Lagging or Balking Zone." Teaching Your Puppy To Heel On Leash.

Teaching your puppy to heel on leash is beneficial in many ways. It is the first step in higher discipline and the beginning of a regimen that will earn your dog the reputation of being well behaved and always welcomed back where ever you take him. "Heeling", is not just teaching you dog to walk obediently beside you. It is also teaching him that when he is on the leash he is to obey and pay attention to you, and you only. He is to walk past other people, dogs, sights and sounds without stopping, pulling or lagging behind.

Choose a leash that is size appropriate for your dog, comfortable for your hand, and has a sturdy easily maneuvered clip. I prefer a light weight nylon leash, but there are many other styles and types of leashes to pick from in all price ranges. Shorter leashes are better suited and easier to handle for training purposes. A well fitting buckle collar will work fine for this lesson. The collar should be loose enough for you to slide two fingers between the collar and the dog's neck, and snug enough not to pull off over the dog's head.

Start off in an area that is familiar to your dog and without distractions. This way he is not tempted to want to explore his surroundings and can give you his undivided attention. Take along a few small treats for reward. Attach the leash and with your dog standing at your left side say the word "heel" and take a few steps forward. At first your dog may want to pull ahead of you, or lag behind. If he pulls ahead of you, pull back gently on the leash putting your dog back in the position on your left side with his head about even with your left leg. Use the "heel" command and take a few steps. Repeat this until he is able to stay in step with you for five or six steps, stop while he is still in the correct position of heel and give a treat and a lot of praise.

It is fine for your dog to walk a little behind you, but if he lags too far behind use the same concept of a gentle tug on the leash to bring him back up to your left side, tell him to "heel" and move forward again. Be consistent with the corrections, and each time your dog walks a short distance in the correct heel position, stop and give him treats and praise. Slowly increase the distance as he understands what you are wanting him to do. You should be able to walk at a comfortable pace with your dog's head at, or slightly behind your left leg, and the leash slack. Do not

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