-sigh- *1st agility class a disaster - need advice*

[Tralee]

This is what my agility instructor taught me to help Toby focus on me when there is distractions


My instructor is having me play a name game with Toby. When I say his name he should look at me within 2 seconds. You start off by having him on a leash and holding no longer then his body. Standing behind him you call his name once and if he doesn't immediatly turn around and look at you, you goose him or give a little pull on his tail to get his attention. As soon as he looks at you, you click and give a high value treat. You build up with more distraction such as other dogs and treat and toys on the ground. When he is consistently responding on a leash you caan move to a long line. You also want to back when you call his name so he has to chase you. You have to be very consistent. The most important thing is to have really good treat and a variety of treats.

[Fear_Nuclear]

I still love Jack don't worry!!!! I have some great advise for you!!! But I haven't thought of it yet But I hope that your second class goes better Remember Jack is the man!!!! I hope this helped you ALOT

[slleipnir]

I think you need to give him time. Zeke was like that at flyball at first. He still likes dogs and sometimes get distracted, but he became much better at focusing on me after a while. I think it was a new thing for him, and very exciting. Does he have a fav toy or treat? Try brining it and getting him to focus on it.

[pnance]

I'm sorry to hear your first class didn't go well. I confess it's a little odd to start with the tunnel but every instructor is different. I don't think there's a right or wrong on what to teach first. As for the waiting/distraction. Targeting helps to keep the focus on you. My class gave each of us a clear plastic small plate that we taught the dogs to touch then gave them a treat. Since it's clear it teaches them to focus on your hands. As for the waiting, our instructors recommended bring a favorite toy that you can play with him. Something like a rope to play tug of war, etc. Gets rid of energy, keeps focus on you, and is a reward for him. It works really well for an extremely hyper aussie in our class that if his owner let him would just sit there and bark and whine the entire class.

[tessa_s212]

Honestly, if the instructor was allowing you to correct your dog alot and was moving THAT fast, they probably aren't quality instructors. Is there any other place you could go? Have you check on www.apdt.com ?

A listing of training places in MI: http://www.otch.com/michigan.htm