Three Phases of Learning the Weaves

The weave poles are one of the most unnatural obstacles in agility.  Because of this, it is one of the obstacles that takes the longest for dogs to learn.  While the dogs are learning, there are many learning phases associated with the process.  However, the phases can be broken down into three main categories, all revolving around where the dog is looking while weaving back and forth.

Phase 1: The initial phases of teaching the weaves include luring the dogs through, making sure they don't get off track, and praising them for correct placement.  Dogs who are in this initial phase of learning will often either a) be looking anywhere but the poles (very beginning) and/or b) look up at their handler and his or her hands to see where they should go.  This phase can last several weeks and even months, depending on how much time you practice with your dog and how consistent you are.  During this part, I will often hear handlers say, "He's just following the treat," or "She isn't even paying attention."

Phase 2:  This phase comes after A LOT of practice.  During this time, the dog begins to become semi-independent on the weave poles.  There are several indicators that your dog is in learning the correct weaving motion: moving the head around the poles, developing a rhythm, staying closer to the uprights, and watching the paws.  However, the dog will still need occasional directions and corrections as he/she gets distracted, is confused, or loses mental focus.  Again, depending on commitment and consistency on your part, this phase can last several weeks or several months.  Handlers will often feel frustrated because their dog did it "perfectly" twice before, but makes a mistake the next time.

Phase 3:  This final phase is not perfection, but like any other command, the dogs accurately performs the weaves at least 90% of the time on their own.  Most dogs will move beyond looking at their paws and will instead be looking ahead, moving quickly, and having a constant stream of motion.  This phase also includes working on any fine tuning, such as weave entrances, speed, motivation, and exits.  Because dogs are (thankfully) not machines, the final portion of this stage is ongoing, but requires minimal handling but lots of practice tailored to your dog's specific needs.

Below are several pictures of dogs who are in the second phase.  As you can, each of them is watching their paws. The handlers are in various states of "weaning" themselves off so the dog becomes less and less dependent on them.

Lisa and Howser

Lisa is still using her hand to lure Howser through the poles, but you can also tell that he is beginning to watch the poles while he is going around.

Cyndee and Dosha

Dosha is getting a slight hand signal for formality's sake, though she is not looking at Cyndee's hand at all.

Becca and Cheri

  Cheri is also doing the weave poles relatively independently.  While she can do them off-leash, her leash is on for other management issues not relating to weaving.

Bailey

 Last, we have Bailey, who appears to be doing the weaves all on her own.  Beyond the scope of the picture, Lee is actually giving verbal motivation and is ready to jump in and assist Bailey as necessary.