Nosework (4/30)

This is our first time back in class since the two week break. Tonight started with handling exercises.

Our first task was to bring all our leashes/lines in and lay them on the table. Then we paired up to try out the different leashes. Janice and I took turns being the dog or handler and tried all the leashes. In the end we each concluded we liked our own the best.

Interior 1 search video - The first exercise was for the handler to practice letting the line out smoothly. Since I've been working with a longer line all along, this was pretty easy. There was no real searching, but Gimme enjoyed the free cookies in the box, which also contained odor, so we were effectively reinforcing for being at source.

Interior 2 search video - This time there was a row of 4 chairs with odor on each one. The idea was for us to practice our handling in four different ways. For the first time through the hides were paired - we did it with the dog leading, paying out then gathering up line. Second time through we did it with the dog on our right, rewarding on our own. Third time was dog on the left. The fourth time was handler's choice. I confess I don't understand what their newfound objection is to me saying "Thank you, find another one", which I've been doing for years (this is our 30th round of classes)! The co-instructor said, it's because there might not be another one. Seriously, I know Gimme is brilliant, but the cue isn't about the words... it's just telling her "I'm done here, search more" or put another way "No more pay here". In any case, Gimme was getting really frustrated by the lack of information, so on the fourth run, I gave her the same info by gently moving into her space to encourage her to move on. She was happier and they didn't even notice.

Exterior 1 search video - Our last search was three hides in a large exterior area. She started to go left and then was drawn directly to the hide on the right side of the area. I really don't know what was going on with the second hide; she went by it several times. I do sometimes think she ignores hides, just to prolong the search and I thought so at the time, but in the video it doesn't look that way. She did a great job with the third hide. Overall she did a great job.

Gimme was definitely not impressed with taking a break, since she's certain she doesn't get to do enough stuff now.  She was really glad to get back to class.