Instructions
Begin teaching one-word commands when Springer spaniels are young, at only five to six months old. One word commands are easiest for them to remember and include not only Heel, but No, Sit, Stay, and Come. All of these commands will be necessary while training them to heel.
Place a collar and leash on the spaniel before training at around 12 weeks old. Once they are used to the collar alone, attach the and let them drag the leash around so they are used to wearing one.
Train your dog to heel with the leash. Direct your Springer to sit still next to you at first. When you begin walking, say "Heel" and pull firmly yet gently on the leash. Don't drag your Springer spaniel if they refuse to walk with you, but use short tugging motions to get them to follow. Do similar if your dog tries to run ahead of you. It may take several sessions before the dog realizes they are supposed to be walking with you and not against you. When you are done walking, command your dog to "Stop" and "Sit" again.
Train them to heel off the leash. Use the same commands and start and stop in the same manner, but do it without the leash in your hands. You can keep it draped over their shoulder so they still see you as in control, or try without the leash at all. Do this training in an area that is safe if the dog runs off. It may be easier for them to become distracted when they aren't on the leash, so it is important to remain patient and firm with them.
How to Make a Springer Spaniel Heel
Springer spaniels are high energy dogs that are intelligent and eager to please, but not necessarily easy to train. They must have commands repeated to them constantly throughout training, and they must also have a firm and patient but not mean hand. Training sessions should last around 10 minutes per session and should happen about four to six times a day to really stick in your dog's mind.