there's still some training to do.

In preparation for hunting season, I routinely review the concept of running through a “wall of weeds”. A tall barrier with well defined parameters can cause a retriever to loose momentum (speed and direction) when making a retrieve. If they have been properly exposed to the situation it is usually not much of an issue. This year's late summer session was a refresher of the standards.

The Square Pond was recently trimmed to create four "barriers". The natural tendency for a retriever is to go around (take the line of least resistance). Each dog has been taught the correct expectation. Standards often erode.....thus the term maintenance.

Daisy was the first of four dogs to run this session. She is quick and always seems to make me speed up when running blinds. To my surprise, another observation surfaced. Lining up a dog's spine properly is a critical component of handling. I noticed there's a need for "adjustments".

A great benefit of video taping sessions is they provide proof of what needs to be corrected.

four “No-No” weed barriers & the lines


reverse view of blind #1

Are you going to the Grand this year? Or maybe the MN? Just wondering. Think me and the two boys are going to make our way to the Fall Grand.

Very nice and great points!