handling for teamwork

Handling For Teamwork by Patty Ruzzo

• Clear, concise, consistent handling is reinforcing to your dog.
• Body Posture, facial expression, verbal tones, energy level, positive expectations and clear, recognizable signal and verbal cues all play a part.
• Attention starts with the handler. Trainers who are totally focused on their canine partner will receive reciprocal attention from that dog.
• Handler sets him/herself up first and checks own body position for straight alignment before expecting perfection from the dog.
• Handlers feet in line and pointed forward, shoulders over hips.
• Soft focus on floor in front of handler. See dog in peripheral vision.
• Walk, think, focus on straight lines.
• Give verbal and/or signal cues before commencing heeling, pivoting, and stays.
• Shorten stride length on all turns, halts, and curves of the figure 8.
• Double track (not single track) when doing left and right turns, the slow pace, and on both curves of the figure 8.
• Take responsibility! The dog is exactly where you put him.