Clean Run Magazine - July 2009 - 67

Comparing the Derrett and Mecklenburg Handling Systems By the Clean Run Staff © TTl acTion PhoTograPhy, Michal Krejci, MeTTe björne PART 5 Rear Crosses The two main systems used in the U.S. and Canada right now originated with Greg Derrett (also called the Derrett System) and Linda Mecklenburg (also called the Awesome Paws Handling System or APHS). The purpose of this article is to compare and contrast the cues between the two systems for informational purposes. We are not going to try to prove that one system is “correct” or that one system is better. Both systems are proven and both work as a consistent handling system. This article series is designed to help you understand what the differences and similarities are so you can make informed decisions about which system might be better for you or your students. Both systems strive to have the handler out in front of the dog to provide better information and to build motivation by having the dog chase the handler. Both systems have the goal of getting the dog around the course cleanly and quickly, and with the fewest strides possible. Note: For the purposes of this series, when referring to obstacles, we will be using jumps since handling cues have the most effect on a dog’s jumping trajectory. APHS also refers to other turning obstacles such as tires, straight tunnels, and chutes, but to be consistent in comparing the two systems, we will refer to jumps. In this article, we will compare the rear cross in each system. The rear cross is a basic turn that happens when you change sides behind the dog. As a review, the cues available in each system are shown below. Derrett System The primary cue for the rear cross in the Derrett System is the arm/side change. The Derrett System is very protective in avoiding “flickaways,” defined as the dog turning away from the handler’s reinforcement zone (RZ). The dog should never move/ turn away from the handler’s RZ. See Figure 1. Therefore, in a rear cross, the dog should not turn until the handler changes sides/arms behind the dog. Another primary difference regarding the Derrett System is that rear crosses are only done at an obstacle and are never done on the flat. The line that the handler should move along is defined as the diagonal line from the outside upright of the jump before the turn to the inside upright of the jump at the turn. See Figure 2. If the dog needs to carry out, then more extension is desired from the dog’s jumping performance. In those cases the rear cross would be placed closer to the previous jump. If a tight turn is needed, the rear cross would be positioned closer to the turning jump. Deceleration could also be used to help achieve a tighter turn. 1 Derrett System BCBL RZ BCBL The dog should never move/turn away from the handler’s reinforcement zone (RZ). These dogs are “flicking away” from the RZ. July 09 | Clean Run 67

Clean Run Magazine - July 2009

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