Pass the AKC Novice Exam with These Proven Training Techniques | Dog Training

TL;DR

Learn to train your dog for the AKC Novice stand exam.

Transcript

in today's video we'll discuss in detail how to train for the stand for examination in the akc novice routine as described in the rule book the principal feature of this exercise is that the dog stand in position before and during the examination without displaying resentment there are three commands you'll be told by the judge for this portion of ... Read More

Key Insights

• The AKC Novice stand for examination exercise requires the dog to stand still during the examination without showing resentment, with specific commands from the judge.
• Handlers must walk three steps away from their dog and return without the dog moving, ensuring precise distance and positioning throughout the exercise.
• Scoring begins after the stay command, with penalties for rough treatment, dog resistance, or breaking the stance stay, including non-qualifying scores for significant errors.
• Training involves using physical cues like luring and leash pressure, ensuring the dog performs the behavior reliably before introducing verbal commands.
• Overshadowing occurs when a dog focuses on a physical cue over a verbal command; handlers should separate the command and cue to ensure proper learning.
• Building a reliable stand stay involves teaching other stays first, using negative reinforcement markers, and gradually increasing distance and duration.
• Handlers should practice with multiple people acting as judges to generalize the dog's training and ensure the dog remains calm during the examination.
• Precision exercises like using a wall or shaping box can help prevent the dog from shifting during the stand, improving the dog's stance for competition.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the principal feature of the AKC Novice stand for examination exercise?

The principal feature of the AKC Novice stand for examination exercise is that the dog must stand in position before and during the examination without displaying resentment. The dog should remain standing as the judge approaches and examines it, touching the head, body, and hindquarters.

Q: How should handlers prepare their dogs for the examination?

Handlers should prepare their dogs by using physical cues like luring and leash pressure to teach the stand position. They should ensure the dog can reliably perform the behavior before introducing verbal commands. Practice should involve multiple people acting as judges to help the dog generalize the training and remain calm during the examination.

Q: What are some common penalties during the examination?

Common penalties during the examination include rough treatment to get the dog into the stand, active resistance from the dog, breaking the stance stay, or the dog showing shyness or resentment. These can lead to minor or substantial deductions, and significant errors may result in a non-qualifying score.

Q: How can handlers avoid overshadowing during training?

Handlers can avoid overshadowing by ensuring that the verbal command and physical cue are presented separately. This means asking the dog a question with the command and then giving the answer with the cue. This separation helps the dog focus on learning the command rather than relying solely on the physical cue.

Q: What techniques can improve a dog's precision during the stand?

To improve a dog's precision during the stand, handlers can use techniques such as practicing next to a wall to prevent shifting, using a shaping box, or a narrow bench to limit movement. These exercises help the dog maintain a straight stance and improve its positioning for competition.

Q: How should handlers build a reliable stand stay?

Handlers should build a reliable stand stay by first teaching other stays, using a negative reinforcement marker like 'wrong' for corrections, and gradually increasing the distance and duration of the stay. Consistent practice and reinforcement help the dog understand and maintain the position.

Q: Why is it important to use multiple people during training?

Using multiple people during training is important because it helps the dog generalize the experience of being examined by different individuals. This exposure ensures the dog remains calm and performs the exercise correctly during actual competitions, regardless of who approaches the dog.

Q: What should handlers remember about the scoring process?

Handlers should remember that scoring begins after the stay command is given. They need to avoid rough treatment and ensure the dog does not show resistance or break the stance stay. Any significant errors, like the dog moving or showing resentment, can lead to a non-qualifying score, affecting the overall performance.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The AKC Novice stand for examination exercise requires specific commands and precise execution, with penalties for errors. Training involves using physical cues, leash pressure, and gradual introduction of verbal commands. Handlers must ensure their dogs stand still during the examination, with practice involving multiple people acting as judges.

• Training focuses on avoiding overshadowing by separating commands and cues, using reinforcement techniques to build a reliable stand stay. Handlers should practice with distractions and ensure their dog maintains the stance until the judge signals the exercise is finished. Precision exercises can improve the dog's stance.

• Handlers should be aware of scoring criteria, including penalties for breaking the stance stay or showing resistance. Training should progress gradually, with emphasis on reliability and precision. Practicing with different people and environments helps generalize the dog's training for competition readiness.