Core Obedience
Heel and Loose-Leash Walking
Separates formal heel from practical leash manners for daily walks.
Loose-leash walking means no pulling; heel is a precise position behavior.
Training both separately prevents confusion and improves walk consistency.
What this command is
Dog walks near handler with controlled leash pressure and attention windows.
Estimated time: 2-6 weeks
Why it matters: Leash skills reduce daily friction, improve safety, and support public access manners.
Public training steps
Reinforce position and slack
Reward near-handler position while leash stays loose.
Success: Dog remains in reinforcement zone without pulling.
Typical time: 4-10 sessions
Add duration and turns
Increase walk length, turns, and environmental complexity gradually.
Success: Dog maintains loose leash in routine walk contexts.
Typical time: 10-25 sessions