Course Details
Most dogs know the exercises for obedience and rally and can perform them well at home. But trial environments have an array of distractions. And each trial will present at least one, if not multiple, novel distractions. You can’t train for them all. But you can teach your dog to generalize the concept of engagement around distractions. You need to go to a variety of locations and expose your dog to unique challenges. However, this must be done properly so you don’t overwhelm your dog or inadvertently create a negative association with new environments. This workshop will discuss how to set your dog up for success. We will talk about realistic expectations, acclimation, warmup, what skills to practice and for how long. I will teach you how to read your dog so you can identify when the environment is too challenging and when the dog is ready for more. Dogs do not need to be trial ready. All they need are several fluent behaviors, which can consist of tricks. This is a crucial skill for dogs that are getting ready to trial or are already competing. You will need to go to a unique location that your dog has never been to such as a park, parking lot, in front of a store, inside a store, a different training building, etc.
Watch the Trailer:
Lecture Publish Date: Sunday April 28th
Video Submissions Due Date: Sunday May 5th @ 12pm noon PT
Feedback & Questions Video Publish Date: Wednesday May 8
Instructor: Petra FordI have been training and competing for several decades in a variety of sports including Hunt Tests, Field Trials, Nosework, Agility and Rally. My first love has always been competition obedience. I have been fortunate to win the AKC National Obedience Championship four times with three different dogs. (Click here for full bio and to view Petra's upcoming courses)
