Expert Tips for Mastering the AKC Novice Figure 8 Heeling Exercise | Dog Training

TL;DR

Learn to master the AKC Novice Figure 8 heeling exercise.

Transcript

the figure eight exercise is essentially the same as the heel on leash exercise with the addition of you and your dog as a team negotiating two cones or a similar object these cones should be placed about eight feet actually they should be placed eight feet apart when starting this exercise have your dog in heel position midway between the two cone... Read More

Key Insights

• The Figure 8 exercise is similar to the heel on leash exercise, but with the addition of navigating two cones placed eight feet apart.
• Handlers should choose to start the exercise by going left, as it minimizes the chances of losing points due to the arrangement of halts.
• Judges do not give about turns, slow pace, or fast pace commands during the Figure 8 exercise, focusing instead on the handler's control.
• Minor or major deductions occur for lagging, wide sits, forging, crowding, or failure to sit at the halt; handlers must not guide the dog with the leash.
• The dog must adjust its speed during turns to maintain heel position, slowing down on inside turns and speeding up on outside turns.
• Starting before the judge's command or failing to wait for the 'exercise finish' command can lead to non-qualifying scores.
• Practicing with a friend acting as a judge helps dogs get used to the competition environment, as opposed to training alone.
• Using techniques like pivoting in place during turns can improve the dog's focus and responsiveness during the exercise.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the Figure 8 exercise in dog training?

The Figure 8 exercise is a component of competitive dog training, particularly in the AKC Novice class. It involves the handler and dog navigating two cones placed eight feet apart in a figure-eight pattern. The exercise tests the dog's ability to maintain heel position while adjusting speed during turns and responding to the handler's commands.

Q: Why is it recommended to start the Figure 8 exercise by going left?

Starting the Figure 8 exercise by going left is recommended because it minimizes the chances of losing points. Many judges give the halt command after the right cone, so starting left means fewer halts and transitions, reducing the opportunity for errors and deductions.

Q: What are some common deductions in the Figure 8 exercise?

Common deductions in the Figure 8 exercise include lagging, wide sits, forging, crowding, or failure to sit at the halt. Handlers can also be penalized for guiding the dog with the leash, failing to maintain a brisk pace, or starting before the judge's command. These errors indicate a lack of control and precision.

Q: How should a dog adjust its speed during the Figure 8 exercise?

During the Figure 8 exercise, the dog must adjust its speed to maintain heel position. On inside turns, the dog should slow down to stay aligned with the handler. Conversely, on outside turns, the dog should speed up slightly to keep pace. This adjustment demonstrates the dog's attentiveness and training.

Q: What role does the judge play in the Figure 8 exercise?

The judge's role in the Figure 8 exercise is to evaluate the dog's performance and the handler's control. They issue commands like 'forward' and 'halt' but do not give about turns or pace changes. The judge assesses how well the dog maintains heel position and responds to commands, as well as the handler's ability to execute the exercise correctly.

Q: What should handlers avoid during the Figure 8 exercise?

Handlers should avoid starting the exercise before the judge's command or failing to wait for the 'exercise finish' command. They should also refrain from giving excessive commands, as this can indicate a lack of control. Additionally, handlers should not guide the dog with the leash or adapt their pace to the dog, as this can lead to deductions.

Q: How can practicing with a friend help in training for the Figure 8 exercise?

Practicing with a friend acting as a judge can help dogs get accustomed to the competition environment. This practice simulates the conditions of a real competition, where the dog must respond to commands from a judge and maintain focus despite distractions. It prepares both the handler and dog for the dynamics of a competitive setting.

Q: What techniques can improve a dog's performance in the Figure 8 exercise?

Techniques like pivoting in place during turns can improve a dog's focus and responsiveness. This method reinforces the dog's understanding of maintaining heel position during turns. Additionally, using a combination of leash pressure and lures can help guide the dog through the exercise, ensuring they adjust their speed and maintain the correct position throughout.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The AKC Novice Figure 8 heeling exercise requires the handler and dog to navigate two cones placed eight feet apart. The handler should start by going left to minimize point deductions. Judges do not give about turns, slow pace, or fast pace commands, focusing instead on the handler's control.

• Deductions occur for lagging, wide sits, forging, crowding, or failure to sit at the halt, and handlers must not guide the dog with the leash. The dog must adjust its speed during turns to maintain heel position, slowing down on inside turns and speeding up on outside turns.

• Practicing with a friend acting as a judge helps dogs get used to the competition environment. Techniques like pivoting in place during turns can improve the dog's focus. Starting before the judge's command or failing to wait for the 'exercise finish' command can lead to non-qualifying scores.