Session #3: Building Blocks for Draft: Stops, Backs, and Lane Exercises
Sunday 9:30am-12:30pm (mandatory equipment check 8:30-9:15am)
Who can participate?
This session is appropriate for all handlers who are interested in draft work. It is appropriate for any dogs that are comfortable pulling a drafting apparatus, turning the apparatus, and working with the apparatus in a group with other dogs and handlers. You do not need to have any knowledge of draft test exercises in order to participate.
We will be conducting a brief equipment check from 8:30-9:15am in order to make sure that your setup is safe for your dog. Not all safe setups are good, though. A good or, better, an excellent setup makes draft work infinitely easier for both you and your dog. We strongly recommend that you attend Session 1 so that you can learn how to make your setup as good as you can get it.
Overview
We will we teach you the “Building Blocks for Draft,” i.e., the basic skills you need to safely and successfully enjoy drafting with your dog, and show you how to train, practice and reinforce them. In this session, our focus will be on stops, turns and pivots, backups, and lane skills. We will also analyze and practice a number of common maneuvers, including low and high narrows, backup narrows, forward 90 degree turns, backup 90s, U-turns and the moving stand.
When honed, the building blocks allow you to successfully compete in draft tests. We offer strategic tips for how to perform test maneuvers, showing you how to identify and avoid common pitfalls.
What to Bring
A six-foot non-retractable leash, lots of training treats and/or toys, drool towels, a water bowl, your harness, and your drafting apparatus. Most participants find it helpful to bring a notebook for writing down information they want to remember later.
Fee: $40 for NCNC members; $50 for Non-NCNC Members. Early registration for NCNC Members from Feb 1 - Feb 3.
