The Importance of Distance Training in Agility: Learn How to Help Your Dog

In flexibility, this can pose a challenge for canines and individuals who do not inherently compute distance effectively. During the course, do you observe any alterations in the gap between jumps?

Occasionally they are nearer together and occasionally further apart. When you traverse a route, observe when the route has been crafted to gather or stretch your canine companion.

Stride Adjustment Mastery

Canines will be required to acquire the abilities of decreasing their step, extending their step, and moving in both directions. Are you aware of the maximum distance your canine companion can cover with a single stride?

Can you accurately explain what signal you provide your dog to reduce their step length and what signal you give your dog to increase their step length?

Isn't it expected for your canine companion to perform this task independently?

In my individual perspective, flexibility is a collaborative activity and trainers should support their canines in every conceivable manner. Guiding encompasses more than simply instructing your dog throughout the route.

Similar to humans, certain canines are not inherently adept at this particular skill. This happens to be one of the most commonly overlooked abilities in dogs that knock over bars. They are capable of turning, leaping, and moving forward, but they struggle to accurately gauge the distance without the assistance of their handler.

Laurie Zurborg's Distance Training Expertise at Wags & Wiggles

In this space, you can acquire knowledge on how to support your canine companion. Take note in advance while traversing areas where you may need to increase your pace or decrease it to facilitate your dog's leaping throughout an obstacle course. It may be necessary to modify your approach strategy to aid your dog.

Check out this fantastic video showcasing a dog's expertise in adapting its gait as needed during the course. As the gaps between obstacles increase, the dog leaps with greater distance and intensity. Conversely, when the distance between obstacles decreases, the dog adjusts its stride accordingly.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=px-_fgqEQ3w[/embed]

Laurie Zurborg, Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Wags & Wiggles Founder.