Overview of the Heel Virtual Dog Leash
The Heel Virtual Dog Leash is a product developed by Heel, a spinoff of Fleetwood Electronics, which has a history of developing wireless proximity and contract-tracing technologies. Launched in March 2024, Heel is designed to offer dog owners a hands-free way to manage their pets’ movements, leveraging their multiple technology solution for an experience that is both flexible and precise. This first foray into consumer products, through Heel, grew out of personal interest due to the entire development team being dog owners.
Key Features and Technology
The Heel system operates as a “virtual leash,” giving dog owners the ability to manage their dogs’ boundaries and behavior without relying solely on physical restraints, but without the ongoing expense or limitations of other collar systems. Heel utilizes a combination of three different radio frequencies, including ultra-wideband, long-range radio, and Bluetooth. This combo allows for precise distance detection from 10 to 750 ft. While the app itself is used for firmware updates etc, the real-time functionality is handled through a dedicated remote, which allows for three different types of wireless correction — audible, vibration, and static (electric).
Key capabilities include:
- Boundary Management: The system alerts the dog with a preset correction if they cross a boundary distance from the remote (10, 25, 75, 150, or 750ft). If the dog begins to return, the system stops issuing corrections.
- No subscriptions, cell service, or GPS required.
- Multi-Dog Support: Responding to user feedback, the latest iteration includes a multi-dog (up to 3) system, allowing simultaneous management of multiple pets from one remote.
Positive Reinforcement Focus
The Heel Virtual Leash aims to associate corrections with positive reinforcement rather than punishment. While some competitors rely solely on shock mechanisms, Heel takes a balanced approach. According to Nick Hayhoe, that you “never want the shock to induce pain or a yelp,” instead use gentle stimuli to gain the dog’s attention. The collar is designed to ensure the correction is not overly uncomfortable for the animal. And many users find the vibrate correction option just as, or almost as effective as the static. In my testing the vibration is sufficient for all but my most distracted pup.
Above, my pup Pedro, while training him to respond to the vibration alert. You’ll see him recognize the vibration and immediately return to me for a treat.
Current and Future Development
The current version of the collar is quite water-resistant, and there are plans for a fully waterproof version by mid-2025. Heel may offer a discount or other incentive for upgrades to this improved design if existing users require a fully waterproof version. According to Heel, the collar has proven particularly popular with trail runners, hikers / campers, and ranchers who appreciate its hands-free functionality. It allows users to focus on their activities while the system automatically manages the dog’s movements and boundaries.
Direct-to-Consumer Model
Heel adopted a direct-to-consumer (DTC) approach for its first product launch. This strategy has allowed the company to gather direct user feedback, which has been instrumental in refining the product and adding new features.
Looking Ahead
As Heel continues to develop its Virtual Leash technology, it remains committed to innovating for pet owners who want an efficient, humane way to manage their dogs. With enhancements like waterproofing and expanded features on the horizon, the company aims to remain at the forefront of pet technology.
For more information, visit heel.dog.
Heel Virtual Leash system just after unboxing.
Heel Virtual Dog Leash: Hands-Free Pet Management originally appeared on Gear Institute.