Loose Leash Walking vs Heeling: Mastering the Leash for Better Walks

Are you trying to decide between loose leash walking and heeling for your dog? Both techniques have their strengths, but which one is right for you? In this post, I’ll explore the differences between loose leash walking vs heeling, while also showing you how to integrate both methods to improve your dog’s focus and engagement during walks.

Walking a dog can be a joyous experience for many owners, but unfortunately for some, walks can be one of the most challenging and frustrating parts of both a dog and owners day.

Mastering leash walking skills can make a huge difference in the quality (and enjoyment) of walk you have with your dog.

When it comes to leash walking, the two main skills are loose leash walking and heeling. These two techniques are so similar yet so different at the same time, and even though the purposes are different, they can be incorporated into your dog’s walk.

Understanding Loose Leash Walking

Loose leash walking is basic leash manners. Understanding not to pull on the leash and stay in the required boundaries of the leash keeping it loose.

This is what the majority of people are looking for when it comes to walking techniques, nothing fancy just being able to walk and not being dragged along.

The concept of leash walking is very simple to teach, however many people get it wrong. Owners try to speed up the process, move too fast or just don’t make it fun enough for the dog to learn and understand. If you find yourself struggling with leash walking, check out these leash walking games to help your dog understand the concept quicker and easier.

I don’t really consider leash walking a behaviour but more of a mindset, you aren’t asking the dog for anything but respect for the leash.

Exploring Heeling

On the other hand, heeling is a behaviour, one that is more commonly used within the sport dog realm.

Heeling is being able to walk (or even run) and have your dog right by your side normally maintaining eye contact as they go.

As mentioned heeling is used in a more competitive manner, I feel a lot of confusion stems from the use of the word “heel” when walking a dog. Many owners actually aren’t looking for heeling, this falls more under a behaviour.

The Difference Between Loose Leash Walking Vs Heeling

The difference as mentioned above is that one is a mindset and one is a behaviour.

One has “loose” criteria whilst the other has expectations.

The majority of owners just want a dog that understands loose leash walking, they aren’t looking to have their dog look at them engaged (although that can be very beneficial for reactive, fearful and insecure dogs).

When to Use Loose Leash Walking vs Heeling

Both loose leash walking and heeling have their place in your dog’s walking routine, but understanding when to use each technique can make all the difference.

Loose Leash Walking

Ideal for everyday walks in quieter areas, parks, or less crowded spaces where your dog can have some freedom to explore while still walking beside you without pulling. Jasper walks in this position for the majority of the walk when distractions are low.

Heeling

Perfect for situations that require more control, like walking in busy urban areas, crossing roads, or passing by heavy distractions like other dogs or people.

By knowing when to switch between the two techniques, you can make your walks more enjoyable and safer for both you and your dog.

Integration Of The Techniques

Now that you’ve got a brief lowdown, let me explain the benefit of having both techniques under your belt.

We all understand the benefits of a dog that understands the concept of loose leash walking. Your dog won’t be pulling you around, trying to rush over to other dogs or people, barking around etc.

So what about heeling? Why would the average dog owner need that? The answer is engagement. There are times you will find there are distractions or triggers in the environment that could “test” your dog out on walks.

Being able to teach your dog to heel at certain times can be very beneficial in many situations involving distractions and triggers, especially if you have a reactive dog. Being able to call them in by your side and have them engaged as you walk past whatever may trouble them.

Heeling is harder to teach than the average leash walking. Heeling involves multiple separate mechanisms to bring the whole machine together.

By being able to bring these two together you can allow your dog the freedom of liberty through loose leash walking, and then reel them in to heel for specific situations.

The Power of Structured Dog Walks: The Best of Both Worlds

For those looking to strike a balance between loose leash walking and heeling, structured walks provide the best of both worlds. A structured walk combines periods of loose leash walking for relaxation and exploration with heeling for control and focus when needed.

Structured walks allow your dog to understand when it’s time to pay attention and when they can explore their surroundings. By alternating between loose leash walking and heeling, you can maintain your dog’s engagement, reduce pulling, and reinforce better behaviour, all while allowing them to enjoy their walk.

This approach not only keeps your dog mentally stimulated, but it also builds a stronger connection between you and your dog, as they learn to follow your lead and respond to different cues.

Check out my blog post for more tips on mastering structured dog walks.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to loose leash walking vs heeling, having both of these skills at your disposal can be incredibly beneficial. Each technique serves a different purpose, and learning when and how to use them can make your walks smoother, more enjoyable, and far less frustrating for both you and your dog.

Loose leash walking offers your dog the freedom to explore while still maintaining control, which is great for mental stimulation and reducing stress. It allows your dog to sniff, take in the environment, and enjoy the walk in a more relaxed way.

On the other hand, heeling provides structure and focus when you need it most. It’s especially helpful in high-traffic areas, when passing distractions, or during moments where control is key to ensuring a safe and calm walk.

By mastering both skills, you’ll have the flexibility to switch between a relaxed walk and a more controlled one based on the environment and your dog’s needs. This not only makes walks more enjoyable but also strengthens the bond and communication between you and your dog, as they learn to follow your lead in various situations.

Having both techniques in your training toolkit will ensure you’re prepared for any walking scenario, ultimately leading to more fulfilling walks for you and your dog.

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