Distance Handling 101 - Foundation Skills: Episode 7 - Using 'stations' for a Great Wait

In this episode I am switching to a self-control exercise, namely teaching a wait using a 'station'.
Having a wait is so important for distance handling, it enables you to place yourself where you need to be on a course, yet so many people fail to teach strong waits, or think that they should teach them only after a dog has lots of 'drive'.
As mentioned in the self-control vs drive video, (Episode 3) these self-control and drive go hand in hand and should always be taught in tandem.
This is why I very swiftly introduce self-control to my dogs in a fun way that I can build on during our agility journey.
In this exercise I introduce a mat that I call a 'station' where my dog learns to go and settle on. This becomes a game for the dog, while the mat offers a clear boundary for them helping with the concept of a wait.
In this early stage we are introducing the mat, building value for going on it and also looking at how we get them off again without ruining our wait.
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sophiejackson2021
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Dog agility is a fast growing sport involving the dog negotiating a series of obstacles. Traditionally, handlers have endeavoured to run with their dogs around a course. However, with courses becoming bigger, it is increasingly vital to teach distance handling for dog agility. While some handlers may have physical limitations that mean they cannot run with their dogs, even handlers that are fit and able will need distance handling skills. These skills include - obstacle independence - ability to respond to verbal as well as physical cues - great drive and focus forward However, distance handling can often seem daunting to those who have never tried it. In this new series, I am going to explore the foundations for great distance handling. You will learn the key training techniques, exercises to build drive and independence and develop your skills as a distance handler.
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About me! I am a force free dog trainer living in the United Kingdom. I have trained with a variety of dogs and currently own Shelties and working cockers or cocker crosses. I have competed in agility since 2013 and have qualified for various regional and national finals. Due to ill health, I had to transition from being a running agility handler to a distance handler in 2021. Since then I have become passionate about encouraging handlers of all abilities to enjoy this sport with their dogs. My channel is dedicated to sharing my love of dogs and dog training. I believe dog training should be taught in a fun, cooperative manner. Welcome and I hope you enjoy my videos!

[@sheilasim9200]

We have a good wait but I was sloppy in Ollie’s set up position. Then I saw you use a middle for set up and found that very helpful.

[@everydayk9sdogtraining366]

Yes, teaching the dog to do middle can certainly help. Glad you found this helpful