Heelwork off lead

Why it matters

Off lead heelwork is expected at working tests and is simply useful day to day, particularly around other dogs and guns. It should only be attempted once on lead heelwork and the stop whistle are both thoroughly reliable.

Set up

• Confirm on lead heelwork and the stop whistle are both solid before removing the lead.
• Choose an enclosed or quiet area for the first off lead attempts.

Run the drill

1. 1Walk with the dog off lead in the same position it holds on lead, rewarding frequently.
2. 2Practise stops and changes of direction, using the stop whistle if the dog drifts.
3. 3Gradually extend the distance walked and the level of distraction present.

Make it harder

• Practise heelwork past a stationary distraction such as a dummy on the ground.
• Add other people or a calm second dog into the environment.
• Practise heelwork immediately before and after a retrieve, as it would be used at a working test.

Common mistakes

• Removing the lead before the dog is truly ready: go back to on lead work if focus is not solid.
• Working in a distracting environment too soon: build up in a quiet, enclosed space first.
• Forgetting to reward calm position off lead: it still needs reinforcing even once the lead is gone.