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- Did you observe good handling practices when dogs were being leashed and/or walked? Describe your personal observations.
- Describe two examples of how awareness was utilized by a handler.
- Describe two examples of how positioning was utilized by a handler.
- Give two examples of how contact with the dog was used in the handling.
I watched a YouTube video on dog agility presented by McCann Dogs Agility. The presenter had excellent handling practices with off leash dogs. A combination of a favorite toy and treats presented in a timely manner helped guide the dog in the mannerisms preferred by the instructor.
The instructor was incredibly aware of the dog. She was able to change her teaching methods to accommodate for the speed and age of the dog. She utilized fencing, poles, her own body speed, and differing epic commands combined with precise hand and body movements to adapt the dogs preferred movements to the movements needed to be successful for jumping in agility.
The instructor forced the new dog to position himself correctly for the jump with several methods. The older dog only needed a pole to help guide her position. The younger dog needed fencing and to slow the entire process down and be taught in a piecemeal fashion. This made the dog square up and slice nicely.
The instructor made sure to praise the dog immediately when the desired reaction was achieved. She did this by whatever means the dog accepted as high praise. With a favorite toy, a high value treat, or lots and lots of pets.