Before this Dog training is commenced it is extremely important that all dogs have reached a high standard of control.
Step -1
With other dogs present, where possible, a rolled up towel is thrown for the dog to retrieve. The handler then plays a tug of war game with the dog. This exercise is then repeated with each dog present. During this training, when in groups, all dogs will become excited, so utmost care should be taken to ensure that they are sufficiently separated, in order that they do not come into contact with one another.
Step-2
The dogs are again lined up with the trainer in front of them. The instructor (agitator) will excite them with a rolled up towel, which is attached to a long lead. When he has a dog's attention, the instructor will run away dragging the towel behind him. The selected handler will release his dog with the command "fetch" and encourage the dog to retrieve the towel. The instructor will give the dog a short tug of war game before surrendering the lead to the handler who will play with the dog.
Step-3
Once the dog is proficient in this exercise, the dogs will be lined up in the same manner. The instructor will hold the towel in his hand and excite the dogs. When he runs, he will hold the towel and the handler will send his dog with the combined command "fetch rouse". When the dog reaches the instructor, the instructor will let the dog take the towel from his hand. The handler will then have a game with the dog.
Step-4
The dogs will again be required to be in a line. The trainer will attach a towel to his arm, excite the dogs and then run away. A dog will be released with the command "rouse" and the dog will be encouraged.
Step-5
When all dogs are proficient, the trainer will exchange the towel, and the exercise will be repeated. Once the dogs have perfected the exercise, it will be advanced to the stage that the dogs are capable of completing the exercise off lead. The object is that the dog will sit happily at heel off lead, whilst handler challenges. The dog must respond to all commands instantly e.g. "rouse" etc.
Field for Dog Training Exercises
As you enter this stage of training, you must be sure that the dog has required scent association through retrieving exercises.
At this point in training a review of factors concerning wind conditions and air currents of this is necessary. Through this review, we come to realise there are many aspects that must be considered in selecting a location to conduct field training. When beginning initial stages of this training, the exercises must not be too difficult for the dog. The area should be relatively flat, with the minimum of natural or man-made obstacles. An odour being carried by the wind in an area such as this will not normally be disturbed to any significant degree; therefore, the dog will not normally encounter any, difficulty in detecting and tracing the odour to its origin. The transition from retrieving into open area must be made as smooth and simple as possible for the dog.
Remember during retrieving, the dog's excitement toward the training aid was stimulated when he saw it being thrown in the air and was allowed to run freely about, hunting it.
During these training exercises, the dummy and odour will not be thrown for a retrieve. Instead the dog will be, controlled and directed by the handler. As you can see, there is somewhat of an abrupt change between retrieving and field training. However, if we are careful in planning the exercises and continue to make it enjoyable for the dog, very few problems should be encountered. Remember in most cases, it is the quality of the exercises conducted and not the quantity that will determine progress.
