Michael Ellis’s is a core component of his reward-based training system, designed specifically for high-level competitive obedience and protection sports. Unlike casual walking, focused heeling requires the dog to maintain intense, sustained eye contact with the handler while remaining in a precise physical position. Core Training Principles
Handlers choose a specific target on their body (face, shoulder, or side of head) for the dog to look at. Focused Heelingwith Michael Ellis Torrent
Unlike "old school" methods that rely primarily on avoidance, Ellis’s system is rooted in (operant conditioning). The goal is a dog that "dances" with its handler—maintained by high engagement and a genuine desire to work rather than a fear of correction. Feature Breakdown: The Curriculum Michael Ellis’s is a core component of his
The official course is typically divided into modules that take a trainer from basic lure work to advanced competition-level finishing. Module/Step Focus Area Key Techniques Engagement Unlike "old school" methods that rely primarily on
: Once stationary focus is strong, handlers introduce movement, initially using lures to keep the dog's head up and eyes locked on the target.