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Ever wondered how to get your dog to focus reliably, even with distractions?

It starts with Two-Way Attention.

Now, let’s teach One-Way Attention, so your dog holds eye contact — even when you look away.

In Partnership with Ivan Balabanov

Weekly Bite

Competition heeling demands more than basic obedience. It’s built on reliable focus.

To make it easier, I’ve broken competition heeling into 4 parts, starting with Two-Way Attention. Today we’re diving into part 2: One-Way Attention.

Part 2: How To Teach One-Way Attention

1. Start with Two-Way Attention: Build a foundation by practicing mutual eye contact (if you missed it, 👉️ here’s last week’s guide).

2. Stand Upright with a Reward: Hold a treat (Aki likes liver) or toy at waist level and make sure your dog can always see it. Position them in a “Stand".

3. Say “Watch” & Look Away: Establish eye contact, then look straight ahead. Use your peripheral vision to monitor their focus. If they hold attention, release with “Yes” without making eye contact and a reward. 🔁 until fluent.

4. Add Movement: Slowly walk forward. They should maintain uninterrupted attention while moving loosely on your left.

5. Add Distractions: Swing a toy, enlist helpers to lure your dog, and introduce other dogs. Their gaze should not shift momentarily with any distraction.

If you’re a visual learner, Ivan’s videos cover everything you need.👇️ 

The Result

With one-way attention, your dog learns to hold uninterrupted eye contact from any position — no matter where you look, your body cues, or even distractions.

As an added bonus, you’ve just built engagement — the key to training success.

Weekly Treats

Sam’s Picks

• Missed Part 1? Here’s my guide to two-way attention. (LINK)

• Struggling with attention and focus? Read my guide to engagement. (LINK)

• Not sure about Ivan’s courses? Check out his methods in action. (LINK)

• Want to rescue a Belgian Malinois puppy? Adopt 3 littermates. (LINK)

Tail End Trivia