Strolling around Galveston, TX you’ll see a lot of happy dogs walking alongside their owners. It’s always nice to see a dog walking nicely on its leash, not pulling, tugging, or darting around. The observer gets the sense that this easygoing, friendly pooch listens and has some self-control to boot.

 

In the dog world, whoever is in front of the pack is the leader and teaching your dog to heel on command is one of the most important commands in obedience training.

A dog who walks you, instead of the other way around, can pull you both into dangerous situations when crossing busy streets, or encountering other animals that may be aggressive.

The heel command teaches your dog to stay close to you, pay attention to you, and to follow the leader - you. A dog that is trained to heel on command is both safer and more pleasant to walk.

Aside from being a great way to bond with your pet, heel on command is also a mental challenge, and a good way to learn impulse control.

 

Start by getting your dog’s treats and using an enclosed area or a long hallway in your home.

• Hold your treat hand at your chest. This will reduce your dog just following the food or jumping while walking.

• Call your dog’s name, point to the side you’d like them to be on and say “heel”.

• When your dog comes up beside you, say “yes” and give them a treat. Repeat a few times, then stop calling their name and pointing to your side, allowing the dog to come beside you on their own. Say “yes” and treat them each time they come into position.

• Once they have it down fairly well, increase your pace, or turn. When back in position, treat them.

• Eventually add eye contact - “Look”, “watch”.

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Keeping your dog's attention and focus is key, and consistency is everything.

 

Be patient and consistent. Whether puppy training or training an adult dog, heel on command can be a tough one to learn.

Grab a leash and practice on walks. Galveston, TX has many pet-friendly places to experience, and dog training in Galveston, TX is wonderful for socializing and desensitizing your pet from distractions. This is why many pet owners love doing puppy training and dog training in Galveston, TX.

 

Taking basic obedience training classes with your dog is money and time well invested which will give you long-term rewards over the years with your pet.

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We offer professional dog training in Galveston, TX which includes obedience training, puppy training, heel on command, how to stop food aggression, and many other valuable services. This will get you both off to the right start and ready to take in all the enjoyment of Galveston, TX together.

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Contact us today to schedule your 1 HOUR CONSULTATION