Handling 3 Week 5
Week 5 already? Time sure flies when you’re having fun!
Riot had a really good week. This week because of the way the groups were slit up, there were no other 20s in his group, so we jumped 24 for all 4 sequences.
I finding with Riot that he is very body aware and I need to fully support obstacles and make sure he has full committed before going on. Just the slightest turn of the shoulder is enough to turn him away in a lot of cases. This is good for the tight, technical sequences but it’s forcing me to become a better handler too.
I’m really pleased with how he did. I tried a three jump lead out pivot for one sequence, but I didn’t like the drive I got with that. I was able to try it again with a two jump lead out and front cross after jump three that worked out nicely with a much more drive-y dog. I’m not sure if the lack of drive had to do with it being our 3rd sequence of the night or if that large of a lead out is problematic.
The one thing we do need to work on is Riot need to be looking for me when he comes out of tunnels and chutes. He gives not thought to finding me upon exiting and will just go and find something interesting unless I’m calling to get his attention. I need to remember this, but I expect him to at least be aware of where I am.
