Effective Training Tips for Dog Heeling with Owner

It may seem straightforward to have a dog follow its owner, but those who have trained their dogs know that it's not as easy as it looks. Dogs are naturally lively and prone to wandering, especially when they're outside. Ensuring that a dog stays close can be quite challenging. However, the risks of accidents are heightened when dogs run around freely, making it crucial to train them to stay by their owner's side. This article aims to provide some effective methods and tips for training a dog to follow you.

How to Train Your Dog to Stay Close

1. Start with Basic Trust Building: Begin by fostering a sense of trust between you and your dog, ensuring they are responsive to your commands. Initially, have your dog sit beside you while holding the leash, allowing them to get used to being on your side. If they attempt to wander, gently pull them back with one hand, securing their collar, and firmly repeat their name or the "stay" command to reinforce that they must remain in place.

2. Shorten the Leash for Walks: Begin the training indoors before taking your dog out. Start by shortening the leash to a length that restricts their movement to your side. Issue the "follow" command as you walk together. If your dog strays, quickly guide them back and reinforce the "stay" command. As they improve, offer praise and encouragement.

3. Outdoor Training with the "Come" Command: While training your dog to follow, also teach them the "come" command. This ensures that when you call them, they'll return. If your dog performs well at home, you can move on to outdoor training. Start with the leash shortened, then gradually extend it as your dog's behavior improves. Continue to encourage your dog throughout the training process, rewarding good behavior and correcting when necessary. If your dog consistently stays by your side in larger spaces, you're well on your way to a successful training.

While the steps may seem simple, training a dog to stay close is a challenging endeavor. Firstly, many owners find it hard to be strict, not wanting to pull too hard on their dog's collar. Secondly, dogs' natural curiosity in the outdoors can be difficult to control. Therefore, it's important to be patient and understanding with your dog, giving them the time and space they need to learn.

Nonetheless, training your dog to stay close is essential. With more people and vehicles outside, the risks of accidents or injuries are real if your dog wanders off. It's important not to view this training as suppressing your dog's nature but rather as a necessary measure for their safety. And while it may be tempting to skip training due to inconvenience, it's a crucial step. Once trained, your dog can enjoy playtime with the freedom to come when called, without the worry of getting lost. We hope this guide has been helpful in your training journey.