Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Tracking vs. Obedience

Yesterday's obedience lesson was less than inspiring. Even though Moto had not eaten breakfast he still was not willing to do mechanical work such as his nemesis, the pivot drill. Out came the microprong (again *sigh*). My trainer says he will just have to be made to do this, to work on the happy part once he gets past this rough spot. Unfortunately I'm afraid I agree. Now heeling is fine as is the "fun stuff" like lateral work and side work, which is very much like dog dancing. He is also readily accepting the dumbbell which is really great. He has a nice fast recall and he's beginning to understand how to be correct on fronts. Finishes - oh dear. Not horrid but with a dog like this we NEED to be correct out of the gate. The little mini bull terrier is doing so much better than us, as is the Dobie puppy. It's great to see all these different breeds, I just wish we were ramping up faster than we are.
Now tracking - hoo boy what a star! I laid two tracks this morning and already Moto is bored. I need to contact our instructor as he gets it and is ready for more. Now he rapidly trots, head down, to the glove. He is already offering the down behavior at articles. I believe he is ready for turns. He's moving at warp speed and I believe the TD will be his first title.
But again, this proves Laurie's "problem solver" theory. Moto loves to think, can remain focused and solve problems. This afternoon we will train again so I need to come up with some obedience training puzzles for him.
Hubby has a business dinner tonight so I get to eat what I want: liver yum! I bake whatever is left over into doggie treats so everyone wins!

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