In NPCA, what is the minimum and maximum distance for the heeling phase?

• A. 25-60 ft
• B. 40-60 ft
• C. 60-90 ft
• D. 50-75 ft

Answer: (D)

Distance management during the heeling phase tests how well the dog maintains a fixed working space from the handler while moving and responding to cues. In NPCA standards, the dog should stay about fifty to seventy-five feet away from the handler during heeling. This range challenges the dog to stay focused and in position even when the handler is at a noticeable but not intrusive distance, which reflects real-world working conditions where the dog isn’t right at the handler’s side but must still hear commands clearly and stay under control. If the dog gets too close, the test loses its distance-control aspect; if the dog gets too far, cue perception and coordination can break down. The other proposed distances either compress the drill into too close a range or push it beyond what’s practical for reliable cueing and control.