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| How many dedicated dog-sport enthusiasts
got their start when they innocently brought home their first puppy, were
dismayed by the destruction and chaos an undisciplined pet can cause, and
rush out to sign up for obedience class, in a belated attempt to restore
some sanity to their lives? Training classes aimed at producing
well-behaved pets often provide the first clue as to how rewarding working
with your dog can be. As well, several sports - including carting,
Schutzhund and Ring Sport - include obedience work as an integral part of
their tests, while control, and compliance with a handler's commands, are
essential aspects of others, such as agility and most of the field sports.
Obedience Trials
Obedience trials were
designed to test the dog's suitability as a good companion. Basic tests
include heeling (on and off lead), sit, stand, stay and coming when
called. At more advanced levels, dogs are asked to jump, retrieve,
respond to signals, and identify and retrieve articles carrying their
handlers' scent. |
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