How to Train Dogs Off Lead

How to Train Dogs Off Lead

Train Your Dog to Heel

If you want to be successful at training your dog off leash, you must first have your dog trained to heel on leash.

Begin training your dog to walk right next to you while on leash in an enclosed area. This exercise is called “heeling“, and you should use the word “heel” as your command. Once your dog gets the hang of it, you can add distractions that will give you an excuse to use the heel command to redirect your dog’s wandering attention back to you. Once you’ve accomplished this, it will be up to you how much off leash work you feel safe doing. Keep in mind that you have to maintain your dog’s attention from the moment you remove his leash. If you don’t, he’ll likely head off in his own direction the first chance he gets How to Train Dogs Off Lead.
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How to Train Dogs Off Lead

* Calmly remove your dog’s leash, but leave his collar on.

* Give the command to heel, and walk in a straight line. (Angling into your dog will cause him to heel wide.)

* Walk briskly! Don’t walk at the pace of your dog.

* Don’t wave your hands about – hold your left hand close to your body as though you’re still holding his leash.

* Make sure you always give the first command in a positive but calm tone of voice. Never try to teach your dog anything if you are in a bad mood.

* Change your voice to a commanding tone or call your dog’s name sharply if he doesn’t keep up with your walking pace or if he ambles away.

* Gently praise your dog with a “good boy” when he walks right by your side so he knows he’s doing well.

How to Train Dogs Off Lead

If you find that your dog wants to start off without you or move in his own direction, you may find it necessary to come to a complete halt, call your dog back to your side and begin again. With repeated 15 minute sessions, you should be able to train your dog to heel both on and off leash.

Remember, training your dog is not unlike training your child to behave in a way society expects. Provide rules and boundaries. Be firm about what is and is not acceptable behavior, and praise your dog whenever he performs as asked. Keeping training sessions short and pleasant will make them a positive experience for you pet, and he will definitely learn quicker.

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