Clean Run - August 2011 - 59

While this maneuver may seem cumbersome to execute at top speed, practice is really all that is required. One overlooked aspect of agility training is training the handler without the dog.

7
5

8
6

9
2

2 3 4 4 4 4

Rotation here
3 1 1 3

1 4 1 4 4

Do a front cross between #3 and #4. Be sure you are moving in the direction of #5, not the direction of the off-course jump (dashed line).

Try a front cross after #3, first going to the jump #4 with a black number. Then, try a front cross after #3, going to jump #4 with a green number. Notice that the degree of rotation and direction of motion for these two sequences is different and very important.

Try a front cross after #3, going to each of the #4 jumps. The degree of rotation and direction of motion is different for all three sequences. Next try Try a front cross after #3, going only the whitea front cross before #3, going to to each of the #4 jumps. The degree of rotation and direction and green-numbered #4 jumps. These two of motion is different different rotation and sequences requirefor all three sequences. Next try a front cross different directions. Compare it to movement inbefore #3, going to only the whiteand green-numbered #4 jumps. These two Figure 3. Remember to provide a shoulder rotation sequences the dog needs turning information. to cue #2 if require different rotation and movement in different directions. Compare it to Figure 3. Remember to provide a shoulder rotation to cue #2 if the dog needs turning information.

Adding the Dog Once you are successfully rotating in different directions on the flat, as well as moving with a shoulder rotation and eye contact, you can add the dog to the flat work. Repeat the steps above; move around the clock to different Z locations, and move with a shoulder rotation and eye contact. While making sure you are accurately moving in the correct direction as you complete the rotation, be sure that your dog does not go behind you or cut in front of you during your cross. If you encounter either of those behaviors, break down the cross with the dog at a walk, rewarding for a nice change of side without going behind your back or in front of you. Then gradually build up to a jog, then a run. Note: For the purposes of this article we are assuming your dog has been exposed to a front cross on the flat before beginning this training exercise.

Adding Obstacles When you can rotate while running at a full sprint, separating the movements of your upper and lower body, and move fluently through the front cross rotation with your dog on the flat, it is time to add obstacles. When running actual courses, it is important to remember which direction you need to be running once you complete your rotation; that direction will serve as your Z marker on course. I am not, however, suggesting you pick an object to focus on while running. It is more important to pick a direction you want to end up facing and moving toward. That direction will allow you to maintain a connection with your dog throughout your rotation.

The sequences in Figures 7 through 9 are designed to test your rotation abilities. If necessary, start at a jog without a dog and then build up to a run with your dog. Remember to control your rotation throughout your cross; only rotate as much as you need. In some cases, you may need to add an appropriately timed shoulder rotation toward your dog before your front cross to provide your dog with turning cues. Conclusion This simple approach to practicing front crosses will enable you to rotate smoothly and efficiently through your cross while allowing you to run in the right direction. With enough practice in training and in trialing you will be able to subconsciously control your rotation, allowing you to think more about the course, the dog, and the cues you are giving. D

Blake Stafford has been involved in dog agility for 10 years, earning multiple championships in both AKC and USDAA with his Shelties. Additionally, he has handled numerous dogs to championship titles for agility enthusiasts who are unable to do so themselves. When not attending class at Louisiana State University, he travels around the southern U.S. teaching agility. Contact him at www.blakestafford.com. August 11 | Clean Run 59

http://www.blakestafford.com

Clean Run - August 2011

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