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

[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