Sk8er Pup

Handler Movements

Handling Techniques in Agility by Solveig Trippestad, an encyclopedic resource describing in great detail a wide array of handling movements.

Agility Moves and Situations is Guy Blanke’s video clips of terms that describe situations handlers find in agility training and competition.

Handling Techniques from a list of FAQs compiled from Agility email lists.

Crazymaesy Agility Handling Notes by Jo Fraser and Iain Fraser, two leading British trainers and competitors.

Perfect Timing abridged from a Bud Houston article in Clean Run  

Dusty - Duck Dog

Ochre checks in...

at the Uralla Herding Trial.

Thommo & Dusty ...

... share Ange's chocolate paddle pop.

Challenge Certificate

Bulahdelah Show Society - 19/11/2005 - Mrs J Fynmore (NSW)
Challenge & Best of Breed - Ikenheel Diamonds N Dust

Handling Maneuvers

Handling Sequences

For any break in the course flow, a number of handling approaches will work. Mah suggests that the handling maneuver you choose will depend on:

• The speed of the dog and the handler.
• The efficiency or competitive edge that each option provides.
• The recoverability factor - if the option chosen should go pear-shaped, how easy is it to get back on track.

Breaks in the Course

Course Sequences

In Course Analysis for Agility Handlers Stuart Mah suggests dividing a course into sequences using natural 'breaks' where the flow is disrupted. He says that these points in the course occur at:

• Changes of direction greater than 30 degrees.
• Obstacle discrimination challenges.
• Sharp turns towards handler.
• Places where the handler needs to change sides.

Running the course as a series of sequences enables the handler to leave negotiating individual obstacles to the dog, and to get into position to help the dog with the 'breaks' in the flow.