How do I Teach a Brittany to Heel With a Gentle Lead?

Gentle-lead style harnesses are marketed as a more humane alternative to traditional leashes with a choke-chain. They may be especially effective for sensitive dog breeds, such as Brittany spaniels, that don't respond well to chastising and punishment. But because gentle-lead harnesses don't work the same way as the familiar choke-chain method of teaching your dog to hell, you'll need to use positive reinforcement rather than punishment and correction.



Positive reinforcement is an effective way to teach your dog to heel on a leash no matter what breed of dog you have.

Instructions

  1. Training Your Brittany Spaniel to Heel

    • 1

      Before you set out, have a handful of dog treats prepared in your pocket. You will need these as incentives. Make sure the gentle-lead harness is fitted securely and snugly around your dog. Unlike a regular collar, harnesses are designed to fit either around your dog's muzzle or around its shoulders, depending on the model you have. Snap the leash onto the harness.

    • 2

      Position yourself so that your dog is at your left side. Take a few steps forward, and as you walk, say, "(Your dog's name), heel!"

      With a gentle-lead harness, your Brittany should follow you without too much resistance or pulling. When it does, make sure to praise it, but try to continue walking as you do so.

      If your dog doesn't follow you right away, take out one dog treat, holding it out so your dog can see it, and repeat the above step. Your dog will follow its nose to the treat. Praise your dog and move on.

    • 3

      Continue your walk. If your Brittany falls out of the heel position at your side, give the command again and use a treat to entice your dog back into place. Whenever your dog heels correctly, be sure to give praise as well as a treat.

      Only give your dog a treat while it is heeling correctly.

    • 4

      If your dog becomes distracted and does not heel, the straps of the gentle-lead harness should tighten around its muzzle or neck and encourage the dog to resume the heel position.

      If your dog does lag behind, give the heel command and offer a treat every time your dog heels correctly.

    • 5

      If your dog tries to pull ahead and the gentle-lead harness does not automatically correct it, you can correct your dog easily and humanely. Simply make a U-turn; if you retain your grip on the leash the dog will have to follow you, and you will be able to position your dog again at your left side.