Focus for Heeling

This is how I start it with all dogs, pup or adult, trained or untrained. I do modify it as I progress and see either strong progress or issues. Each step is started in a neutral environment, as the dog progresses in that step distractions are slowly added. I hold my hands away from my…

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Retrieve with Scent Discrimination

I wrote this article in 2007 in response to a question on Belg-L. Someone was having problems teaching their dog the AKC Utility retrieve exercise. This is not some breakthrough concept, I was just playing fetch with Enzo a number of years ago on a riverbank. I think it was back in 1996 or 97…

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A Comparison of Schutzhund and French Ring

The Differences Between French Ring and Schutzhund   French Ring Schutzhund   This article was originally published in the late 90's, approximately 1995 or 1996 The most obvious differences between French Ring and Schutzhund are FR has no tracking, the decoy (helper) wears a full body suit, the dog can bite anywhere on the suit,…

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What is Schutzhund?

The word “Schutzhund” means “Protection Dog.” However, despite the name, there is much more to Schutzhund than just protection work. Schutzhund is a 3 part sport, that involves obedience, tracking and protection work. Each of these parts, or “phases”, is given equal emphasis during a trial, and if the competitor fails one phase, they do…

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