Wagon Wheel Drill

I wanted to show you a drill that concentrates on how to ensure your dog runs straight lines.  This is the first time I have done this drill with Tuvuk.  I wanted to keep it simple but also challenge him with multiple decisions.  Another great lesson this drill teaches is for the dog to rely on you for direction.  This drill will also help start a trust relationship between you and your dog.  You can tell by the end of the video Tuvuk was moving very well between positions when I was lining him up for the next retrieve. Also be very careful of habits and sending the dog immediately when you say mark.  They will pick up on this and then start anticipating your release command.  If you have any questions just let me know.

Intro to Force Fetching Re-look

I recently had a buddy from college call me about dog training.  He wanted me to repost another video showing how to start a dog on force fetching.  I have done another video on this which I hope will help.  Just keep in mind that when you start a dog on this take it easy and slow if need be.  As soon as you get a good response give the release command and praise, praise, praise.

Force Fetching to a Pile

Well I am finally back in the video mode again.  After a very successful Iditarod I have been able to return to get some footage.  I have continued to train Tuvuk throughout the race, but was not able to video much. In this video I am concentrating on teaching Tuvuk how to retrieve a bumper from a pile and return quickly.  I am using a Dogtra 3500 to apply the pressure needed to get a quick response.  Again this is only used to teach Tuvuk how to get the pressure to turn off.  If you keep this in mind you will not see any hesitation from the pressure.  I apply the pressure as soon as I give the command on this drill and then it is released when he returns to heel.  This drill will allow us to stretch Tuvuk out to 150-200 yard piles very soon.  This teaches the dog to run straight lines and also builds confidence that there is a bird out there if you send them.  Hope you enjoy the video.  If there are questions with areas that you would like me to refocus on for your training needs feel free to let me know.

Iditarod Start 2011

Well this is a little different dog training post.  This weekend is the Start of the 2011 Iditarod.  I flew in to Anchorage on Thursday night and have been assisting Aliy and Allen as a dog handler for this years race.  If you do not know much about the race I would encourage you to follow the race.  It is a very exciting time for our family and it is amazing how many fans and sponsors the kennel is privileged to have.  For further coverage you can click on the SP Kennel's weblink in my pages section or visit www.iditarod.com.  I have not been able to post any new training videos, but hopefully I will be able to get back into the swing of things next week.