Monday 15 November 2010

Training plans

Unfortunately we haven't been able to get to Jo's for training over the past few weekends but very kindly she has emailed me some training plans to work on, these just include getting him to work on in front, he absolutely adores his space hopper toy and when strategically placed he is working brilliantly, the trouble I have found is that he is fast, and by that I mean very fast! Maisy is a very fast nimble dog but because she is confident at working in front, will take a line untill she hears a command without question, but Rupert obviously has no idea what I really want, he likes me not to crowd wings and will take a line happily but when I get too far back he has a little look over his shoulder taking him wide of the jump (unless his toy is at the end of the line and then he would jut 100 jumps to get there) you would think the obvious answer would be to run faster! obviously this is not the correct answer I am no Linford Christie, so the answer is to slowly build up his confidence so that he too will take the line whilst listening out for a directional command from me. In Jo's email she does state quite clearly that there is no rush for Rupert to perfect the patterns, and I'm sure once there is any height to the jumps this will slow him down to a more comfortable speed. (well thats what I'm hoping)
Yesterday we were at Earls Court for Discover dogs, Amy had entered Rupes in the handling as a practice for Crufts, he took the atmosphere in his stride and although they didn't gain a place Rupert looked the part well and Amy was thrilled with his performance.
No training for Rupes during the week at th moment due to the dark nights so I've gone back to some obedience indoors, we are back at Jo's on Sunday (weather permitting) so I hope she can see some improvements, he sure was pleased to see her at Earls Court yesterday, bless his little furries..