Sue & Waldo

Self control in the dog or handler? OK I will think about it!

If you are doing Obedience and not Agility would the course be worthwhile?

Sorry only just saw that you asked for this.

I found it. It was under obedience in my files. Better stick to those 2013 goals.

A while back someone posted a chart explaining heeling footwork. I have lost my copy and the link. Does that "someone" still have it? (I think under training goals 2013 I should have added - getting organised. )

To make us want to move north perhaps? Seriously though-well done and good luck. its not easy starting something new. Yep, move north of the border!!! :laugh: I used to live in Melbourne!! Thanks Sue & Waldo! It's been a bit of a process to get up and running! Yeah and then you saw the light I guess!

To make us want to move north perhaps? Seriously though-well done and good luck. its not easy starting something new.

Try the K9 Company. http://www.thek9company.com.au

It is monthly so check with them http://www.trainingfordogobedience.com.au

Are you going tomorrow?

The "naughty" side of me would be tempted to send a photo of a different dog and see what the results are...

I like to do heeling at the park next to the school during lunch breaks and after school. It is good to arrive just before the bell so Waldo gets the excited kids running out of class. I have to work on boring stays though because if he has something to watch he is fine. He goes to sleep if nothing is happening-not good for sit stays!

What a great idea! Best of luck with this venture. In Victoria a group run FOO (Friends of Obedience) which is a similar principle.

that's the one... we can cheer each other on... lol I will be in Novice with a black mini schnauzer. I am going to ask by DH to video me. If my DD's camera has more than one button on it the results may be interesting as he is technically challenged at times. If times work out would you like me to try and video you?

Is the trial the Doberman Club RT German Breed at KCC Park? If so I am entering Novice.

I have had another thought for you. Set your own goal/s for your first trial that are based on your own handling and not the dog's performance. For example - your footwork in turns is uniform or that you are relaxed or that your verbal commands and hand signals are clear. Also don't forget to work on your lead craft so you don't get tangled up and listen to the judge. In the recall and SFE don't halt until yu are told to etc.

Thanks Linda. Your support was great and needed. It was an exhausting day. I have no idea how you drove home. I was tired enough. The Shetland pony distraction was a tad testing at times. Waldo was a bit fearful of them but did well. I was especially trilled that we lost no points on any exercises that involved "fronts" (pity about the left pivots) but if we can get straight fronts then it is a wonderful improvement. I just adored watching Mia the Pug work. The prancing heeling was a delight and so focused on Jodie. As usual Roxy & Violet are an education to observe.

Thanks-but also imprtantly DO YOU HAVE PUPPIES?

What a day! the rings were set up right near the rides-including pony rides. The area was cramped but it was a wonderful trial. Waldo was a little trooper. It was our first advanced trial and in spite of all the distractions we score 98 in the first trial and 95 in the second. I was stoked. (I couldn't find the 2013 brags thread). There were heaps of passes and titles - a very happy trial.

Just try and relax. (Not that I do-I usually have to rush to the loo several times at a trial). In my first ever trial after the first "halt" the judge said "forward and for God's sake breathe." If we see each other at trials we still have a laugh. Having said all that just train well and do the best you can. I have been thinking about why I trial and I have decided that it is because it is the best thing for me and my dog. If it isn't at any time then stop for a while. All the best!

Well after going to Rays Outdoors, Aussie Disposals, Anaconda & Kathmandu (unfortunately the store and not the city) I ended up at Clarke Rubber to buy some tape. I spotted this beach shelter that is quite large and light. It has a floor and folds up very easily. Keeps your gear a bit safer and has zip up windows for ventilation. So I got that. Just was not convinced that i needed a gazebo. Now I have to go back to Clarke Rubber to get the tape I went in for in the first place!

glad to know about the aluminium so thanks. I thought about attaching one to the Kluger but wondered of it would not be as flexible as a stand alone one.

Thanks for those ideas-I will have a look at the gazebos. Sue

After a very bad dose of sunburn at a trial I have decided to buy a gazebo or shelter. I thought of a smallish one that can be put up by one person who is DIY challenged at times (me :laugh: ). I had thought of a beach shelter type but am open to suggestions. they may even be on sale at this time of the year if I am lucky enough.