Good dog, shame about the handler!

[seashel]

Thanks everyone, I feel a lot better now, especially having read the HAHA thread! I'll join as a beginner member!

You know it's weird but you are spot on about the toy Cheryl. I found I couldn't seem to think straight with the toy in my guiding hand.

The great thing about agility and Epic is that he is having a great time no matter where I send him. He has no idea it was 'wrong' and if he's running and jumping he's happy. He always gets his reward because he does great/

I will continue to practice and do some without him. I used to watch people walking the course and sending 'imaginary' dogs round but now I can totally see why it helps.

I'll have to try and remember that I have shoulders and feet. At the moment it's just a positive if my hand points in the right direction!!

 

[k9kreationz]

I used to see people standing on one place, doing circles, hand gestures and thinking WTH are they doing? Oh, now I know. They're walking the course, without moving from a spot and yes, I do that too now. I usually walk the course 2-3 times, then do the in place walking at least once outside of the ring away from all the crazy ppl. Don't worry, you'll be one of those too one day.

Ah yes, the toy. I am so directionally challenged that I had so many issues with, dog on left, toy in left hand. Right? oh wait, no, toy in right hand, cuz dog is going to end up over there. I gave up. Toy in pocket, food in both pockets, hand do whatever they need to do. Ah, so much better. It's like there was too many things going on and once that toy was gone, my brain could function for other things. LOL.

Look, my brain can only do so much at once. Gawd, I remember when we first learned front crosses and I was turning the wrong direction wondering wth is going on. Poor Koji. He's put up with me through it all.

And forget me teaching a dog "left" and "right".

You're not alone. And you will get it.