First Run Thru!

HopeShelties said:
I think some of the wandering might honestly be stress. It seems like when you stop to feed her, or your handling is a bit off, she seems to disconnect, think too much, and stress.
When you're running, try to stand up nice and straight. Also, for now, try not to get too far ahead. She seems to get lost if you are working too far ahead of her.
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Great suggestions and observations. She reminded me of when Nike gets stressed out, they have that same kind of scuttle movement. That can definitely be helped by bringing her to trials just to watch and get used to the sights and sounds.

Also, I'd say try to keep her moving. Hope is right that she seems to disconnect when you treat her. Nike is the SAME way, and I only treat at the end of sequences now (now that he understands 2o2o), because if I stop, it gives him too much time to look around and get nervous. (At least that's how it appears). If I keep moving with him (not too much of a lead out), he moves through the course better and more confidently.

I'd check out other agility clubs in your area and see if they offer run-thrus, matches, or drop-ins. Even if you go to a drop-in class, and only run three obstacles REALLY well and confidently, that will be a boost of confidence and a step in the right direction. (In terms of getting comfortable in new settings). Then you can keep building on it until she's comfortable enough to do a full course in a new place.

And she's a baby dog. :smile2: Don't let anything discourage your training, because she's new, and there are some moments of brilliance in that video! She has great contacts (believe me, you're going to love how attached she is to that dogwalk!). And she's going to be FAST, which is awesome. Keep up the good work!
 
Infiniti said:
I'd check out other agility clubs in your area and see if they offer run-thrus, matches, or drop-ins. Even if you go to a drop-in class, and only run three obstacles REALLY well and confidently, that will be a boost of confidence and a step in the right direction. (In terms of getting comfortable in new settings). Then you can keep building on it until she's comfortable enough to do a full course in a new place.

And she's a baby dog. :smile2: Don't let anything discourage your training, because she's new, and there are some moments of brilliance in that video! She has great contacts (believe me, you're going to love how attached she is to that dogwalk!). And she's going to be FAST, which is awesome. Keep up the good work!
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I'm checking in with some run-thrus around. Most are an hour+ away, so it will be hard to go to as many as I'd like.
Thank you for your nice compliment! It made my day. :biggrin2:
 
Our first trail was very stressful for both dog & handler, but the handler messed up more then the dog.. The second trial 6 weeks later was much better for both Fun Runs & full out trails are a lot different for both team members then your usuall training arena, try and stay more upright & not bend down to the dog as much very Hard not to do with a small dog I have the Exact same problem and you really have to make a conscious effort to avoid bending down to the dog, at least you have that first one under your belt now .It's all full steam ahead from here on out.. Congrates. You are both young and looking very good considering .
 
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Sharon said:
You have a great little dog there.Just don't rush her.It will all come together for you.:biggrin2:
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Couldn't have said it better myself. Make certain that your foundations are strong and get the best handling instruction that you can afford. That's a great little dog you have and you have the young legs to keep up with her. Good combination.
 
Phebe*DD said:
Couldn't have said it better myself. Make certain that your foundations are strong and get the best handling instruction that you can afford. That's a great little dog you have and you have the young legs to keep up with her. Good combination.
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I couldn't agree more. She is just way too cute.
 
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