The
Heel
When you have accomplished at least some cooperation from
your dog with the leash it is time to teach him the Heel
command. This is the command that teaches your dog to walk nicely at your
side. This is how you avoid getting concrete marks across your face from
being dragged down the block by an overzealous dog.
The leash is held in your right hand and the dog is at
your left side. Shorten the leash by wrapping it around your hand several
times and talk to the dog soothingly. He probably will be a bit excited
by the chance to have an excursion so just be patient.
When you and your dog are calm, and he is standing at your
left you are ready to begin. The rule of thumb is to have your dog's right
shoulder in line with your left leg. Say "Heel" and with your left foot
first begin to walk slowly. The dog will have to follow, and will probably
want to follow. Ultimately the dog should have it's right shoulder in
line with your left leg even while walking.
After a short distance stop. The dog will probably not stop
and you will need to place a bit of restraint on the leash so that he
does. Again ultimately he should stop when you do with his right shoulder
in line with your left leg. Keep the leash short so that he does stop
in line with you. Speak to him soothingly. Remember this is really his
first day at school and he is a little frightened by it all.
Repeat this exercise, "Heel" walk and stop. Although you
will have to place him in the appropriate positions, when you do, praise
him and soon he will get the idea that this is what you want. That is
the exercise for heeling.
You just need to keep repeating it, over and over, until
your puppy gets the hint. Don't be discouraged if it does take several
sessions or more. Remember this is a puppy and it has a lot to see and
do outside. It will be easily distracted and sometimes just plain playful.
Just keep at it and your dog will learn.
If you think this is hard, just wait till you get to logarithms.
