Glossary

Heel

A formal skill in which a dog walks close at its handler's side, matching the handler's pace and turns.

Also called: heeling, heel position, walk at my side

Heeling means walking with the dog's shoulder close to the handler's leg, usually the left in competition, with the dog watching or tuned to the handler and matching every change of speed and direction. It is judged in obedience and rally trials and is a demanding skill.

It is not the same as loose-leash walking. On a loose leash the dog may sniff, stray a few feet away and walk on either side, as long as the leash stays slack. Heeling asks for precise attention and is usually taught in short sessions with rewards given at the dog's side.

Most pet owners need loose-leash walking far more than a formal heel. Some use "heel" as the cue for a close walk in busy places, such as crossing a street, and a relaxed walk at other times.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

In the index now

Related terms

Loose-leash walking Walking with a dog beside or near the handler on a slack leash, without the dog pulling. Basic obedience The core manners most pet dogs are taught, usually sit, down, stay, come, walking nicely on a leash and leave it. Cue A word, gesture or situation that tells a dog a particular behavior is available and will be rewarded. Luring A teaching method in which a treat held near the dog's nose guides it into a position, such as sit or down, which is then rewarded.