Focused Heeling can be a crucial skill for navigating the busy streets of NYC with your dog.
Heeling involves keeping your dog close and attentive to either you or your hand until you give a release cue.
While expecting your dog to heel for an entire walk isn’t realistic, this skill is incredibly valuable in urban environments.
Here are a few specific uses:
- Passing up tempting food scraps like chicken bones or pizza. Instead of relying solely on a “leave it” cue, keeping your dog engaged with you as you move past these items can be more effective and enjoyable.
- Providing focus and movement during overwhelming situations. NYC is full of stimuli, and focused heeling can help your dog ignore passing distractions like crowds or other dogs for short periods of time, guiding them to a quieter area.
- Passing other dogs on the sidewalk. In a city where encounters with other leashed dogs are common, teaching focused heeling can prevent your dog from pulling towards every potential friend, keeping them focused on you in a fun and engaging way.
Mastering focused heeling not only enhances your relationship with your dog but also makes walks safer and more enjoyable for both of you.
