Michael Ellis is famous for developing "play drive" to create an intense desire in the dog to work [1]. His approach to heeling is not based on compulsion or forcing the dog into position; rather, it is based on building a high-value reinforcement system where the dog chooses to focus on the handler. Core Principles of Ellis-Style Heeling 1. The Value of the Toy
The release to the toy serves as a massive emotional payoff, keeping the work fun and explosive. Stage 4: Fading the Lure and Generalization
Dogs naturally move in straight lines and often forget they have a back half. Ellis uses pivoting exercises on boxes or platforms to teach dogs how to swing their rear ends into position, which is crucial for sharp left turns and about-turns. Why Searching for a "Torrent" is a Bad Idea Focused Heelingwith Michael Ellis Torrent
Kaiser continued to heel perfectly. But when Alex hit a new problem—proofing against distractions—he had no teacher left. The community shut him out. The very people who could help him saw his name on the ban list and turned away.
This skill is a testament to a dog's training. A dog that can perform focused heeling isn't just "obedient"; it has bought into the training process, understands how to get rewards, and sees its handler as the center of its universe. As Ellis explains, it allows you to give your dog "a very clear picture of what she needs to do to get her reward," using high-value motivators like food or toys instead of relying on corrections. Michael Ellis is famous for developing "play drive"
[1] Leerburg: Focused Heeling with Michael Ellis (DVD/Online Course)[2] Michael Ellis Seminar Notes - Various Training Forums
: Many participants have found the "Focused Heeling" program to be highly effective in improving their heeling skills, especially in competitive scenarios. The emphasis on understanding and changing behavior through reinforcement is both humane and productive. The Value of the Toy The release to
Michael Ellis is a well-respected dog trainer with over two decades of experience in agility, obedience, and behavior modification. As a pioneer in the field, Ellis has developed a unique approach to dog training that emphasizes the importance of clear communication, positive reinforcement, and building a strong partnership between dog and handler. His methods have been widely adopted by dog trainers and enthusiasts worldwide, and his instructional videos and online courses have become invaluable resources for those seeking to improve their dog's skills.
: The materials are generally well-structured, making it accessible for handlers of various experience levels to learn and implement the techniques. However, some may find the concepts and application challenging without prior experience in dog training or positive reinforcement techniques.
"Focused Heeling" with Michael Ellis is more than just a training DVD; it is an investment in a philosophy of dog training. It moves you away from compulsion and fear and toward partnership, joy, and clarity for your dog.
The toy is not just given to the dog; it is used in a tug game, allowing the dog to win frequently to boost confidence and motivation [2]. 2. Positioning and Engagement