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Revised 2008 Schutzhund Trial Handling Tips
by Ann Marie Chaffin
Copyright September, 2008 -
Show Handling Tips
Why are some people better handlers than others? This question is asked all the time. Some people are more coordinated than others, some people can do many tasks at once, some can see mistakes or problems and correct them on the fly, and some people prepare themselves for trials. All of these things and more make any one person a good handler. Here are some hints on successful trialing.
When showing always smile at the judge and be extremely courteous. It is very important to listen to what the judge has to say. Some judges have handler's meetings where competitors can ask questions. Use this opportunity to clear up any concerns you might have. A competitor may ask a judge if he has time for questions via the internet or before the trial. Pay attention to his instructions, and pay a lot of attention to his critiques of other dogs. The BH is a good place to listen to the judge’s critiques as they sometimes go into novice-like detail to the spectators at this level.
At a trial, you have to go with the flow. Don't get overly upset about mistakes, it will just interrupt your other performances. Don't dwell on perceived inequities in scoring or unfavorable conditions. Points you lose in one place you will probably get back in another, maybe even at another trial. Every competitor knows that you have good days and bad days. A good competitor knows the rules when he is trialing. Rules change from year to year. It is important to know what costs more points, and if you have to lose points, where to lose them. Example:
- If your dog misses some blinds do not be too worried, it is only a 5 point exercise on the Schutzhund 1 and 2 and up to 10 points on the Schutzhund 3. If a couple of extra commands makes him finish that is great, but don't stress your dog. It could cost you more in the long run; possibly in the dog’s reaction as you approach the live blind if he thinks he has done something wrong.
- If your dog goes after the dumbbell, but doesn't find it give another "bring" command, but do not move from your spot as you could lose all the dumbbell points.
- If your dog is coming around the jump, maybe a second "hup" command will make the dog jump so you lose fewer points. In the dumbbell, each part is worth 5 points, but you need 2 of the 3 parts to retain some points. Example: If the dog is perfect, but comes around the jump on the way back, you can retain 10 points of the 15. If the dog goes over and comes back perfectly, but without the dumbbell, you can retain 10 points.
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Ann Marie is currently a USA Judge.
Accomplishments:
- Ann Marie has been involved with dogs since the 1970\'s when she earned her first CD while 12 years old. She went on to be youth 4-H obedience instructor at the age of 15.
- Started one of highest titling clubs in the US called High Plains Schutzhund Club, Inc. in the 90\'s High Plains has over 290 titles to date. Titles including some AKC titles. High Plains has hosted National events in Denver including the World Qualifier in 1994 and AWDF Championships in 1999 and 1999 and 2000 UDC Championships. Helped secured titles in the club on Bouviers, Dobermanns, Malinios, Rottweilers and German Shepherds.
- Was AWDF Secretary for 3 years.
- Has done many seminars on dog safety with Christian organizations, 4-H and neighborhoods.
- Is in USA\'s Owner/handler Club and has 12 Owner/handler Club trainers started in High Plains.
- Has done many articles for dog magazines and USA.
- Schutzhund Trial Chair of the 1997 UDC Nationals in St. Louis
- Schutzhund Trial Chair/Secretary of the 1999 and 2000 UDC SchH Championship in Denver
- Trial Chair and Secretary of many USA and UDC National events.
- Chaired many committees for USA and UDC and AWDF.
- Has been a UDC, NAWBA, and WABA Temperament Tester.
