Adding duration to your walks
As your dog learns what it is you want and begins coming to your side. You should increase the amount of time between him coming to your side and when you click and treat. By slowly increasing, from a few steps to a few minutes, the rewardable behavior, your dog will be able to practice in other conditions as well.
Changing the Variables: It is important for your dog to practice in as many different situations as possible. By changing the types and frequency of the distractions. You can teach your dog to walk beside you under any circumstances, without becoming overwhelmed by the temptation to pull. Some typical distractions for a dog are people, bicycles, dogs, cars, dog urine or feces and other animals. Change only one variable at a time and keep in mind that there are two distinct variables involved in training your dog to heel. One is the amount of closeness of the distraction and the other is the strength or intensity of the distraction. The pace, volume and amount of the distraction is what we refer to as the intensity. As you control the variables which your dog is exposed to and make sure that he is not being distracted to the point of bad behavior you will be teaching him to walk next to you, without regard to the specific environment.
If your dog can't control his urge to pull then the distraction is probably too great. Back away or lessen in some way the distraction and try again.
Once your dog can handle the lessened distraction try increasing it again. Following are some keys to success to keep in mind.
- Lessen the intensity of the distraction by making it quieter, slower or fewer if necessary.
- Train with your dog's favorite treats. Remember that learning is hard work and so make sure that your dog is happy and motivated.
- Reinforcing is crucial in any new environment.
- Lessen the amount and frequency of clicks and treats as your dog improves and begins walking beside you for longer periods of time.
