The real purpose of obedience training

Blind search

Tristan started learning blind searches today. I love this picture of him taken by fellow Schutzhund club member Sal. Here the trainer is showing Tristan he's to go around the blind. A helper is opposite across the field in another blind. The dog first searches the designated blind and then gets to search and catch the bad guy in the other blind. Ultimately the goal is for the dog to search all six blinds on the field.

Tristan did great the first time. The second and third time, however, he kept looking over his shoulder to the opposite blind; and when commanded to search, he tried to go directly to the helper. He's no dummy - he now knew exactly where the bad guy was and wanted to go right to him. The fourth try though he got it Schutzhund right. He circled the blind then hightailed it to the other blind and took the bite when the helper threatened. He knew he'd done great and proudly brought his trophy (the sleeve) to me.

First training of the year

We haven't had many formal training days for a while. I think there was just one Sunday in December so it's great to be back on schedule and on the field. Although Tristan and I do a bit of work every day, I can see the effect of our hiatus. We're both rather raggedy in our work. Tristan did a great long down though staying in position for his longest time yet.