Continuing our agility learning odyssey, Jackie and I have started agility level 2 classes, as well as beginning a supplemental semi-private lesson bi-weekly at Cowtown Dog Sports. The supplemental lessons allow us to submerge in the theory of learning, practicing what we've learned and drilling down on skills and proofing behaviors such as start lines, jumping, or increasing enthusiasm for speed.
Pearls:
- The more enthusiastic and playful I am, the more excited Jackie is to run
- Timing is important while cueing your dog's line-- eventually each team gets into their own special rhythm
- Video recording training sessions is helpful as we learn timing together
- When the dog pauses to look back at you, it means they are asking a question, and need clearer direction where their line is to follow
- Keep your arm up indicating where you want your dog to go, keeping your arm up keeps the dog moving forward, if you drop your arm or slow down your dog might pause to look at you or slow down; keep your arm up and keep running past the last jump
- Keep moving forward at the same speed indicating Jackie’s line to her
- Maintain forward momentum and believe Jackie will run, and she will
Rear crosses, building enthusiasm, practicing cue timing, and rewarding following the directed line:
