Heel™ Training Guide

Section 1: Before You Begin – What Your Dog Needs to Know

Most dogs only need a short introduction before they understand the Heel™ cue sequence. Before using AUTOPROX™, make sure your dog:

✓ Knows their name

Your dog should look toward you when you say their name.

✓ Has a basic recall foundation

Heel™ enhances recall — it doesn’t replace your relationship or trust.

✓ Is comfortable wearing a collar

If your dog is sensitive to gear, give them 1–2 days of acclimation.

✓ Is not fearful or reactive off-leash

Heel™ is designed for adventurous, curious, well-adjusted dogs, not behavioral rehabilitation.

If your dog struggles with recall or has significant trauma, consult a trainer before using any off-leash system.

Section 2: Understanding the Cue Sequence

Heel™ uses one of the most predictable learning patterns in dog training:

1. TONE → “Turn back toward my human”

This is your dog’s main language cue.
It should always mean one thing: return to you.

2. VIBRATION → “You’re still moving away—come back now.”

A gentle reminder if the tone is ignored.

3. OPTIONAL STATIC → “Urgent recall cue (safety use only)”

Used only if you intentionally enable it.
Designed to cut through extreme distractions.

Heel™ does not rely on shock. Tone and vibration are primary. Static is optional and secondary.

Section 3: Step-By-Step Conditioning Process

Step 1: Teach the Tone (5–10 minutes)

1. Put your dog on a long line (15–20 ft).
   
2. Let them wander; press the Tone button.
   
3. The moment they turn back, praise + reward (treat or affection).
   
4. Repeat 10–15 times over 1–2 sessions.
   

Goal:
Dog learns: Tone = return immediately.

Step 2: Add the Vibration Cue (5–10 minutes)

1. Repeat the long-line exercise.
   
2. Press Tone, wait 1 second.
   
3. If the dog does not turn, press Vibration.
   
4. When they turn, reward and praise.
   

Goal:
Vibration becomes an escalation cue, not a correction.

Step 3: Optional — Introduce Static (only if you plan to use it)

If you intend to use static (many owners don’t):

1. Start at Level 1.
   
2. Repeat the tone → vibration flow.
   
3. If the dog continues forward, apply 1 brief static tap.
   
4. Reward when the dog turns back.
   

Goal:
Static becomes a safety cue, not a punishment.

Step 4: Begin AUTOPROX™ Training (the magic moment)

Once your dog responds consistently:

1. Turn on AUTOPROX™ mode.
   
2. Walk normally and let your dog roam.
   
3. When they hit the boundary radius, Heel™ automatically:
   Tone → Vibration → (Optional static)
   
4. Praise them EVERY time they return to you.
   

Your dog now learns the concept of a moving boundary centered around you.

Section 4: Tips for First-Time Heel™ Users

These increase retention and trust.

• Start in low-distraction environments
  Backyard → quiet trail → busier trail → open field.
  
  
• Use the same cue pattern every time
  Consistency is the secret to recall training.
  
  
• Keep sessions short
  5–10 minutes beats a long, stressful session.
  
  
• Reward generously early on
  Fade treats later if you prefer.
  
  
• Use AUTOPROX™ only after conditioning
  Never start with AUTOPROX™ mode; teach the cues first.

Section 5: How Long Training Usually Takes

Most dogs “get it” very quickly.

Day 1:

Tone conditioning + vibration introduction.

Day 2:

Long-line practice + early AUTOPROX™ introduction.

Day 3–5:

Dog reliably responds to tone. AUTOPROX™ becomes natural.

1 week:

Most dogs fully understand their roaming radius.

2–3 weeks:

Heel™ becomes part of your off-leash routine.

Section 6: Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using AUTOPROX™ before teaching tone
  
• Overusing static
  
• Inconsistent recall rewards
  
• Letting the dog wander too far early on
  
• Using Heel™ for behavior issues outside its purpose
  
• Not checking fit: collar must be snug to make contact

Section 7: Troubleshooting

“My dog ignores the tone.”

Go back to long-line tone conditioning with food rewards.

“My dog only responds to vibration or static.”

Tone is not conditioned enough — repeat Step 1.

“My dog seems confused outside.”

Drop to a smaller radius and build distance gradually.

“Static seems too strong or too weak.”

Always start at Level 1 and adjust based on perceptibility, not discomfort.

Section 8: When NOT to Use Heel™

• Dogs with aggression issues
  
• Dogs with no recall foundation
  
• Dogs under 6 months
  
• Dogs with medical contraindications (ask your vet)
  
• Environments with extreme hazards (cliffs, busy roads, fast rivers)