Follow the Feel
Proximity • Confidence • Regulation • Impulse Control
Description
A gentle communication game that helps your dog understand how to respond calmly and confidently to light leash pressure. It builds body awareness, reduces frustration, and transforms the lead from a restraint into a tool of connection and trust.
How to Play
With your dog on lead and treats ready, apply a tiny amount of tension on the leash — just enough for your dog to notice.
When your dog softens into the pressure or takes a small step that eases the tension, mark and reward in the direction of movement (not back towards the pressure).
Avoid pulling or luring. Let your dog discover that moving with the feel releases pressure and leads to good things. Even a weight shift at first counts as success.
Once your dog understands, gently toss a piece of food just out of leash range. When they move to relieve the tension or turn away, praise and reward them generously away from the food.
Occasionally, after rewarding, send them back to collect the food on a loose lead — this reinforces that calm cooperation always leads to freedom.
Why it Matters
Follow the Feel teaches emotional and physical balance through communication, not control. It helps dogs feel secure and confident while moving with their guardian, even in moments of mild pressure or uncertainty. Over time, it creates smooth, stress-free movement and a deeper sense of partnership.
Tips for Success
Keep leash tension light — the goal is whisper communication, not steering.
Practise in calm, familiar spaces before taking it into the real world.
Pair with Back to Base or This Way to support emotional regulation through movement.
For sensitive dogs, start by practising gentle body awareness games like Calming Touch first.
Think of the leash as a conversation, not a control tool.