It is important to continue moving forward in your training on a broad front. This means that "yard work" and "drills" are balanced with field work on land and water so that the dog is learning all of these skills in an orderly manner. (for an explanation of field terms you should read the books recommended in the resources page)
- Double-T Handling drill that teaches concepts of taking direction from handler at distance
- Swim-by Water handling drill that teaches handling in water at distance.
- Pattern blinds Teaches dog to go in a straight line in the direction he is sent for long distances
- Cheating water marks to learn to not run the bank. I introduce this in basics with most dogs as Poodles have a GREAT tendency to bank run. This is introduced using the standard "retrieve over a high jump" obedience methods then move to a small log, then a pile of brush then a small body of water, such as a wading pool, then a small pond and finally to the regular training ponds. I incorporate the word "no" when the dog first goes around the jump or obstacle, move up and show him what I want and tell him that he is "good". Gradually progressing in this manner a dog can be taught to NOT bank run even if he doesn't understand handling skills or e-collar commands.
- Cheating land marks. Same concept as cheating water marks. Because of the lack of terrain courage in many Poodles I teach this as part of the basics even before they learn handling skills. A dog can be taught to "go straight" using verbal cues, whistle stops, and moving up towards the dog to "help" the dog understand the concept of going away in a straight line. (Diane Bauman, Janice DeMello and Jeannie Denard have perfected this using standard obedience techniques with their obedience dogs) If the dog has high prey drive it certainly helps to overcome a lack of terrain courage.
- Doubles on land
- Doubles on water
- Multiple marks
- Poison bird concept should be introduced
- Steady at line. This is taught from the beginning of training in obedience.
- Casting drills on water and land
- Diversion shots and diversion birds
- Honoring a working dog
- update 4/16/06
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