Now we will be getting into harder to solve problems such as: Inaccessible odor, lingering odor, converging odor, odor placement at height, bigger amounts of hides. How reading your dog in trial can be very different than in practice. Restarting a dog who has gone off track. What to do about the handler’s ring nerves. Methods for covering bigger search areas. Time management. When to direct the search and when to let your dog take the lead. Using the wind and air movement to your benefit. How to really be the best supporting actor/ actress to your dog’s starring role.
As we move up to competition levels, The hide placements will become a bit more challenging. The number of hides increases. The greater demands on the handler will be introduced. Methods for practicing at home will be discussed and demonstrated. We will be getting into all the different varieties of AKC competition: In addition to the usual container, interiors, exteriors. We will introduce buried in sand and water and handler discrimination. The beauty of AKC competition is that it is a la carte! Preparation for Odor Recognition tests and NACSW novice competition will also take us outside to do vehicle searches and all of the associated nuances.
Novice or beginner canine scent work……. Get your feet wet in the fascinating world of canine scent work. Build the bond with your dog by hunting together. In this class we will introduce your dog to the target odors. We will work on building drive and confidence for your dog. You will learn some basic handling skills and how to read your dog. For those interesting in competing with their dogs… we will be learning the particular rules for each titling organization and practice the skills needed to exhibit successfully.
Only available to current students. Practice time for all the things you have been learning in class. Do NOT change the course, only one dog loose at a time, the others MUST be crated (to avoid any turf accidents) 50 minutes, MAXIMUM 2 people and 2 dogs.
