Teaching Heel Position Using Placeboards

Placeboards are a fantastic tool for helping your dog understand where the correct heel position is.

By using the placeboard as a target, we can create clarity for your dog and help them learn exactly where you want them positioned when working at heel.

Begin by walking your dog on a loose lead. Once your dog is relaxed and connected with you, guide them onto the placeboard so that you are standing alongside the board with your dog sitting in the correct heel position.

As soon as your dog is in the correct position, mark the behaviour with your clicker and reward.

Repeat this exercise regularly, rewarding your dog for choosing and maintaining the correct heel position. The placeboard helps remove confusion and gives your dog a clear understanding of where they need to be.

Remember to keep sessions short and successful. Build the behaviour gradually and continue to reward the position you want from your dog. Over time, your dog will begin to understand that heel means staying connected and positioned correctly alongside you.