AG230: The Tipping Point: Contacts and Teeters

Week 1 Assignment 1

Motion Override

We all have the dream of seeing our dogs drive to the end of the contacts and into perfect position regardless of what we are doing.  The thought of being able to drive past and leave them to do their job while we get to our next position is the stuff of legends for some us but not for long!  Over the next several weeks we are going to learn all kinds of games that will help your dog to have the amazing 2on2off contacts you have always dreamed of. 

The key to exceptional 2o2o stopped contacts is the behavior being completely independent of our motion.  Most dogs are motion sensitive and our handling is almost completely based on motion.  The Motion Override Game teaches our dogs to ignore our motion and continue to do the desired behavior.  

The 2o2o contact is a control position, as is a sit, down or stand.  We expect the dog to assume the position when cued as fast as possible and remain in the position until released.  This also helps train the handler’s eye to watching for maintained criteria while the handler is moving.  

Step 1:  Get your dog excited through either play or having them chase you back and forth. Starting at a very slow walk, ask for a sit or a down.  Use the one your dog finds easier.  For instance, most Border Collies find a down pretty easy to do.  Do not stop moving until the dog has made the decision to sit or down.  Even if you have to just walk in place.  Once they have made the decision, release quickly to play or you can go back and reward the position.   Mix it up so your dog has a different reward each time.  

If the dog makes a mistake and offers a different behavior, you can play the That’s Crap GameJYou will gently push them out of position, move to a new area with no tug or cookies and start again.

Once they are successful you can move to jogging then running.  You can also mix up the cues by sometimes asking for a down and throwing in some sits to keep them thinking.  

Have Fun!