Ever watched Crufts and thought, Blimey, how do they get their dogs to walk so beautifully? The good news is, you don’t need a show ring or a trophy cabinet to teach your dog to move with grace and confidence. Whether you’re rambling over the rolling Cotswolds hills, exploring the bridleways of Wiltshire, or just circling the local dog park, a well-trained and mannered dog turns heads for all the right reasons.
In this guide to Crufts-Inspired Dog Training Tips, we’ll break down how to teach your dog to walk like a champion; whether that means perfecting their loose-lead walking, mastering a polished heel, or simply striding out with style and confidence. With a bit of patience, the right techniques, and plenty of treats (for both of you), you’ll soon have a dog that walks like they belong on the green carpet of Crufts itself.
The author walking an extremely well-mannered Collie
Why Proper Walking Manners Matter
Teaching your dog to walk nicely isn’t just about looking impressive—it’s about safety, control, and an enjoyable experience for both of you. A well-trained dog is less likely to pull, lunge at distractions, or get tangled in their lead. Plus, structured walks strengthen your bond and reinforce good behaviour in other areas of life.
The Right Gear for Success
Before training begins, ensure you have the best equipment to set your dog up for success.
Choosing the Best Leash & Collar
- A 4–6-foot leash provides enough freedom while maintaining control.
- Flat collars or harnesses (especially front-clip ones) help manage pulling.
Protecting Your Dog’s Paws
- In hot weather, avoid asphalt to prevent burns.
- In cold conditions, dog boots help protect against ice and salt.
Positive Reinforcement is Essential
Establishing Leadership & Trust
A strong, trusting relationship is the foundation of good walking behaviour.
- Use Clear, Consistent Commands
Stick to simple cues like:
✔️ “Heel” – Walk beside me.
✔️ “Let’s go” – Move forward together.
✔️ “Stop” – Halt immediately.
Reward Good Behaviour
Reinforce correct walking behaviour with treats, praise, or playtime. Positive reinforcement encourages your dog to repeat the action.
Structured Training Sessions for Best Results
To keep your dog focused and engaged:
✅ Keep sessions short – 5–10 minutes at a time prevents frustration.
✅ Start in a quiet place – Minimize distractions at first, then gradually introduce busier environments.
Teaching the ‘Heel’ Command
The heel command ensures your dog walks calmly by your side.
1️⃣ Start with your dog sitting on your left side.
2️⃣ Say “heel” and begin walking. Reward them for staying beside you.
3️⃣ Repeat consistently to reinforce the behaviour.
Pro Tip: Use high-value treats (like chicken or cheese) to keep your dog’s attention, especially in busy areas.
Troubleshooting Common Walking Challenges
Problem: Pulling on the Leash
🚫 What Not to Do: Keep walking while your dog pulls.
✅ Solution: Stop immediately. Only resume walking when the leash is slack. This teaches that pulling doesn’t get them anywhere.
Problem: Getting Distracted
✅ Solution: Use high-value treats to redirect focus back to you when encountering distractions.
Problem: Fear of the Leash
✅Solution: Let your dog sniff and explore the leash before using it. Clip it on indoors first and reward them for calm behaviour.
Every Win Is A Step Towards Your Goal
Level Up: Advanced Training Techniques
For those wanting a show-quality gait, try these techniques:
- Pace Variations – Walk fast, slow down, then speed up again to teach your dog to adjust.
- Figure-Eight Patterns – Walking in figure-eights improves agility and attentiveness.
Patience & Consistency: The Keys to Success
Training takes time, but every small win is progress!
✔️ Celebrate improvements – even if it’s just a few extra steps of perfect walking.
✔️ Stay calm – Dogs pick up on frustration, so make training sessions fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
By following these Crufts-inspired training tips, you’ll teach your dog to walk with confidence and control—whether in a show ring or on a casual countryside stroll. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are your best tools.
Enjoy the journey, and happy training!
Recommended Products
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, we earn commissions from qualifying purchases through any product links in this article.
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Author Bio
Glenn Bauer is a trusted professional specializing in pet and house sitting for rural homes and estates across the Cotswolds and South West and South England. With years of hands-on experience in managing properties and animals, he offers tailored care and solutions. His expertise is reflected in consistent 5-star client reviews. Read Glenn's journey to professional pet and house sitter Glenn and Mandy: The Journey behind A-Breed-Apart
If you'd like to send Glenn a message, then visit his Contact Page.
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