TEACHING RETRIEVE OF THE DUMBELL
The initial use of the dumbbell occurs in Open Class trialing in two
exercises. - Retrieve dumbbell on the flat
- Retrieve dumbbell over the high jump
The specification for both exercises can be found in
the booklet "Rules for the Conduct of Obedience Trials - Open Class.
It is in your interest that you study these Trial requirements. Be fully
aware of the listed deductions, all of which in turn will greatly assist
you in your basic training in dumbbell work and encourage you to achieve
the highest standard possible in the ultimate tests.
The following comments should be noted:
I . This is a complicated, precision exercise for
your dog to learn and it would seem to invite confusion to sometimes
allow the dog to fetch" as a game with no restrictions and at other
times expect prompt, straight retrieves with no "mouthing",
straight precision sits in front and delivery on command only, which is
your ultimate aim.
2. Each stage should be taught as an exercise in
itself - look for confident, perfect performances before moving on to
the next stage. Lay your basic foundations firmly. These are the basics
for many of your Utility Class exercises.
3. This exercise has nothing to do with playing with
balls and sticks. To prevent confusion, it is recommended that the
handler (or anyone else) does not throw toys for the dog to fetch as a
game, until the dog is performing "retrieve the dumbbell" in
the trial ring with good scores.
Preparation
I . Obtain a dumbbell to suit your dog’s size. If
you are unsure ask an instructor at your obedience club to select a
dumbbell for you.
2. If you wish to "scent' your dumbbell, have
clean hands. Cigarette odour, insect repellent and some hand lotions may
be repellent to your dog. Also, whether you scent the dumbbell yourself
or not do not allow anyone else (stewards, etc) to handle the shaft of
your dog's dumbbell.
3. When teaching, always use a check chain and lead,
as your dog must be under physical control. It is recommended to do some
"Heel on Lead" work immediately before commencing each lesson.
This helps to indicate to the dog that you require his concentration and
obedience to commands.
4. Use gentle hands, a firm pleasant voice and a
happy confident attitude when teaching these basics.
5. Do not advance your dog to the next stage until
your obedience instructor has evaluated your dog's performance.
6. Do not let an eager dog grab the dumbbell until
you have given the command to TAKE. Use STAY or similar commands and
keep it out of reach at first until the dog understands to wait. Do not
use reprimands for this at the moment. It is up to you to manage this
training properly.
Instructions
The dog should be in the sitting position and on lead.
I . Teach TAKE by opening the dog's mouth and gently
placing the dumbbell in his mouth. Your left hand is over the top of the
dog's muzzle, thumb one side, fingers the other. Pressing the dog's lips
against the teeth will cause him to open his mouth. His dumbbell (held
in your right hand) is immediately placed behind his upper canine teeth
and the dog is praised. As soon as the dumbbell is in position, release
the pressure on his teeth.
2. Teach HOLD by gently tilting the dog's head up
with your right hand under his chin and praise him.
Note the similarity between the two words HOLD and
NO. Differentiate between them with your tone.
3. Teach GIVE by carefully taking the dumbbell from
the dog's mouth. At first it may be spat out at you. Later, if the dog
refuses to give on command, use your left hand over the dog's muzzle as
described in teaching TAKE above, gently press part of the lip against
the teeth until the dog releases the dumbbell. Immediately remove your
left hand and praise.
Use praise after each of these steps to indicate to the
dog that he has done what you commanded. Do not be afraid to keep doing
every one of these steps even after you think he understands what you
want. This will lesson later confusion and disobedience. You are teaching
- training comes later.
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