One of the easiest ways to improve your dog’s walking skill and general focus when out and about is to reward them for checking in. This means that every time your dog looks at you, you are going to mark and reward them with something they love.

When you are out walking and your dog is voluntarily checking in with you regularly, you will become more connected to each other’s movements. This really helps when it comes to changing direction on your walk or stopping at the curbside, as your dog will be more aware of your body movements.

The goal is to have your dog periodically look at you and shouldn’t be about building constant eye contact which can be unbalancing for your dog.

After you have practiced in multiple locations you can start to fade out the need to reward for every check in and instead verbally praise your dog as you continue to walk together.