This is Why Walks Fall Apart

Heel isn’t what makes your dog good on walks. In fact, relying too much on heel is one of the fastest ways to CAUSE leash tension, pulling, and frustration! Most trainers showcase “heel” constantly because it looks like control. But heel only demonstrates a position; it doesn’t show regulation, or real-world decision-making. Sniffing and exploration aren’t “distractions.” They’re how dogs regulate their nervous system. When dogs aren’t allowed to sniff, move, and process their surroundings, pressure builds. That pressure often shows up as • leash pulling • reactivity • constant urgency • inability to settle Giving freedom on walks often creates more focus - not less. When dogs know they’ll get access to the environment, they stop rushing toward it. Heel has a purpose. Passing a dog. Tight spaces. Crowded areas. But expecting heel as the default on a walk is where things fall apart. If you want a step-by-step plan for building real-world loose leash skills, check out 30 Day Perfect Pup at Pupford.com/training - you’ll find my favorite training treats on their site too! Subscribe for dog training that prioritizes regulation over appearance.