Do you know what the best ways to turn your dog when there are many off-course obstacles close by? Try this exercise and learn more about your dog!

In this technique training exercise you can choose your handling options from the following techniques:

Flip
Reverse Spin
Jaakko Turn
Wrap

For this exercise you should use only these techniques.

The ratio between your dog’s handler focus and obstacle focus, as well as the natural working distance of your dog are amongst the things that determine how strong the cues will need to be to effectively turn your dog. Some dogs will turn very easily with a Wrap, while other dogs will jump very wide if the handler’s chest laser is pointing in the same direction as the dog’s chest.

The direction of the handler’s gaze is an important part in cuing a turn; the longer the handler looks on the take off side of the jump, the tighter the dog will turn. You can use this to your advantage in handling by delaying the turn of your head in situations where you need your dog to turn tighter and / or pass off-course obstacles.

The goal of this exercise is to teach you what tool you should pick for turning your dog in situations where there are off-course obstacle close by. You will also learn what the best timing is for the switch in the direction of your gaze for your dog.

Find a printable version of the course plan here:

Have fun training!

Technique Training - What’s The Best Option For Your Dog?

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