Something Different

I signed up for an Online course yesterday and I'm pretty excited about it!

Denise Fenzi (who is an uber dog obedience trainer) is doing an online class about Play, and Building Relationships. As soon as I saw it on her blog I wanted to do it, but all the working and auditing spots were taken.. :( So I hummed and hawed for the last week or so about doing it or not. Without feedback, or communication of any kind was it really worth it? Well for $75 I'm going to find out.

As an Observer I still get access to read peoples questions and answers, watch the videos, get the homework, get the lectures etc. So I think it will be worthwhile. The information alone will be useful I think.

I already use play a ton in my training. Tugging, Shoving, Pushing, Food Tossing, toys that are food, Biting, Jumping Up, Nose touches..the works. Whatever the dogs like, I use.  I like a good attitude in the ring, and I've found the best way to get that is with lots and lots and lots of fun. The dog needs to want to be with you, and work for you. But I am missing something- there seems to be a gap in the transition from training to the ring. I know it is me, but I'm hoping that through the play games I can learn how to keep my dogs as up in the ring as they are in training.

Denise uses play in the form of food, toys, and personal touch. She is a positive trainer, who doesn't use harsh, or unfair corrections to her dogs and she still gets super high scores, and her dogs all have a great work ethic. I read every blog post she does, and would really love the opportunity to work with her in person one day.

In any case I am excited to learn some new things about building value, and putting it to use with all of my dogs! (although Brit will be the focus for the class). It will be an interesting experience!

The Class starts tomorrow- you can read about it on the Agility-U website.

I also saw that Kathy Keats is doing a Mental Game class. I am sorely tempted. I could definitely use that right about now.... Agility is something that I am still struggling with.