Distraction Busters

Jump!  Tunnel! Weave! Where did my dog go?  A number of enticing distractions can happen on and off the agility course.  Sometimes it’s hard for doggy to pay attention to us when there are so many things to hear, see, and smell at agility.  Someone has dropped a treat the size of a pin head on the floor; a new dog walks near; a loud truck goes by... the possibilities are endless!  Since handlers can pretty much count on distractions happening during classes and even trials, here are a few tips and tricks to help you bust doggy out of distraction mode.

• When running sequences in practice, have doggy check in with you after obstacles at times. You can do this using the “watch me” command or by calling their name.
• Practice commands and obstacles in as many different situations and places as you can.
• Ask class members and friends to help out by creating distractions for doggy when you are running sequences and practicing basic commands.  Start out with small distractions at first and then work up to more irresistible ones!
•  Create distractions yourself by playing the radio, inviting human and canine friends over, scattering treats around, etc. while working with doggy.

Remember when trying to desensitize your pup to distractions to be consistent and patient.  Always end on a positive note and reward, reward, reward when doggy keeps her focus on you instead of the bacon on the ground!

Credit for this lovely article goes to: Maria