How to train a dog to heel?

Training a dog to follow is an important lesson in establishing a tacit relationship between humans and dogs. It is not only about the behavioral norms of dogs, but also carries the deep emotions of mutual trust and companionship. Next, let's explore in depth how to train a dog to follow scientifically and lovingly.

When we walk with our dogs on the streets and see them following us obediently, the harmony and satisfaction are self-evident. However, it is not easy to let a dog learn to follow. This requires the patience, wisdom and love of the owner. Every dog ​​is a unique individual with different personalities and learning rhythms. Just like when we face children with different personalities, we must teach them in accordance with their aptitude to achieve the ideal training effect.

Before starting training, it is key to understand the nature of dogs. Dogs are social animals, and they instinctively look for leaders in the group. In the process of living with humans, dogs need to make it clear that their owners are the "leaders" so that they will be more willing to obey instructions. This leadership is established not through harsh scolding, but through a gentle and firm attitude, as well as daily interaction and care. For example, letting the dog wait when feeding and the owner going first when going out, these seemingly simple behaviors are all subtly conveying the owner's leadership to the dog.

When formal training begins, the first thing to do is to choose the right equipment. A suitable leash and collar (or chest harness) is crucial. The leash should not be too long or too short. Too long will make the dog difficult to control, and too short will restrict its movement. Generally, a length of 1.2-1.5 meters is more suitable. The collar or chest harness should fit the dog's body. It should not be too tight to cause discomfort, nor too loose to allow the dog to easily break free. When the dog is wearing the equipment, the owner should make sure that it is relaxed and not nervous or resistant to the new equipment.

The initial training can be done indoors or in the yard of the house in a quiet and less distracting place. The owner holds the leash and gives clear and simple "follow" or "follow" commands while taking steps. If the dog can actively follow, give rewards in time. Rewards can be delicious snacks, such as chicken jerky, cheese grains, or enthusiastic caressing and praise. Dogs are very sensitive to their owners' tone and body language. When they feel their owners' joy and affirmation, they will be more motivated to repeat the correct behavior.

However, during the training process, dogs will inevitably be distracted, sniff around, pull the leash, etc. At this time, the owner must not pull the leash hard, which will not only make the dog feel pain and fear, but also may destroy the trust between each other. You can use the "emergency stop" method. When the dog shows pulling behavior, the owner immediately stops and stays still. When the dog finds that the owner has stopped moving, it will look back to check the situation. At this time, the owner will issue the "follow" command again. After the dog returns to the correct position, continue to move forward and give rewards. By repeating this process many times, the dog will gradually understand that only by staying with the owner can he continue to walk happily.

As the dog becomes familiar with the follow-up command, the training environment can be gradually transferred from a quiet indoor environment to the outdoors. There are more interference factors outdoors, such as other animals, pedestrians, vehicles, etc., which is a greater test for the dog's concentration. When you first start training outdoors, choose a time period and route with fewer people and fewer cars to let the dog slowly adapt to the new environment. When the dog can walk stably outdoors for a period of time, the owner can increase the difficulty of training appropriately, such as changing the walking speed, turning, stopping, etc. Every time the action is changed, the instruction must be clearly issued to let the dog understand the owner's intention.

During the training process, the owner's mood and state will also have a great impact on the dog. If the owner feels anxious or impatient, the dog will also become nervous and uneasy. Therefore, the owner should maintain a calm mind and regard training as a process of interacting with the dog and enhancing feelings. Every little progress is worth celebrating; every mistake is regarded as an opportunity to learn. Just like raising a child, give the dog enough time and space to grow.

When the dog is finally able to walk stably in various environments, the sense of accomplishment and joy is indescribable. This not only means that the dog has mastered an important skill, but also represents the establishment of a deep trust and tacit understanding between the owner and the dog. The process of accompanying training is like a journey full of love and challenges. In this process, we witness the growth of the dog and also gain their unconditional love and loyalty.

Let the dog learn to walk, not only to make walking easy and enjoyable, but also to ensure the safety of the dog. On busy streets, dogs that can follow others can avoid accidents caused by running around; they can also better control the situation when encountering other pedestrians and animals. At the same time, good following habits can also allow dogs to better integrate into human society and become popular "civilized little messengers".

In the days to come, even if the dog has mastered the following skills, the owner can also consolidate the training from time to time. Through some small games, such as randomly changing the route in the park for the dog to follow, or setting some small obstacles for the dog to cleverly avoid during the following process, it can not only maintain the dog's skill proficiency, but also make the training full of fun.