Bad Dog Agility Podcast

In this episode (27:19) In this episode, Sarah, Jennifer, and Esteban share and discuss the qualifying rates for all jump heights in AKC agility, covering both Jumpers with Weaves and Standard, from Novice A to Masters level. You Will Learn The qualifying rates for each height class in AKC agility for 2023. How to calculate your predicted QQ rate. What Q rate is considered "good." The pros and cons of using Q rate to evaluate performance. Mentioned/Related AKC Q Rates for 2023 A Look at Qualification Rate by Height A Look at Speed by Height

In this episode (50:25) Join us for an exciting episode where Sarah, Esteban, and Jennifer interview Cynthia Hornor about the big win with her remarkable dog, Nimble, the first 12″ overall champion at the prestigious Masters Agility Championship at Westminster. You Will Learn Insights into how competitors felt about the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show venue. Detailed discussion on the design of the agility courses at Westminster. Cynthia's strategy and approach to navigating the event with Nimble and Truant (last year's overall champion). Why this was one of the best broadcasts ever for an agility event. Reasons why Nimble, as the overall winner, has garnered extra attention from the national media, from the New York Times to the Wall Street Journal. Mentioned/Related Westminster Special: Mutt Hysteria (Catching Up With Stacey and Roo!)

In this episode (21:48) This week, we're thrilled to have Anthony Clarke, founder of British Agility, on our podcast. Co-host Jennifer Crank recently competed in the Longines Agility Grand Prix 2024 in Miami, a new agility event held in partnership with the Longines Global Champions Tour. We'll share insights from both the organizer's and competitor's perspectives, giving you an inside look into this new event. You Will Learn Jennifer's firsthand insights and highlights from competing in the Longines Agility Grand Prix 2024. How the event promotes dog agility to a wider audience. Behind-the-scenes look at the planning and execution that goes into organizing the event. Insights into the criteria and process for selecting competitors for future events. Mentioned/Related The British Agility Website: https://britishagility.co.uk/ British Agility on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/britishagility.co.uk/ Meet the athletes: https://www.facebook.com/reel/767676161746514 Watch the Promo Reel: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1779892522531298

In this episode (21:15) This week, we're joined by Dr. Brittany Schaezler to dive into the topic of health clearances for agility dogs. Whether you're a newcomer to the sport or a seasoned handler, understanding the standard health clearances is essential for your agility dog's well-being and performance. We discuss everything from hip and elbow dysplasia to eye conditions and how these health factors can impact your agility journey. You Will Learn The significance of health clearances in agility training and breeding. Why hips, elbows, and eyes are crucial health checks for agility dogs. How breed-specific clearances can inform your training and breeding decisions. The role of breeders and owners in ensuring the health and fitness of agility dogs. Practical advice on when and how to get these health clearances for your dog. Mentioned/Related Episode 329: Early Take Off (ETO) – Part 1 Episode 330: Early Take Off (ETO) – Part 2

In this episode (21:39) This week, we delve into a topic suggested by one of our listeners: the fine line between babysitting and supporting your agility dog. In this podcast, we explore how the right balance of guidance and independence can significantly impact your dog's confidence and performance on the course. You Will Learn How the handling support your dog needs changes over their experience level. How you use trial and error to discover how much support your dog needs. Why Sarah thinks it's a good thing to occasionally pull your dog off the correct obstacle. How to use placement of reward to increase the dog's commitment to the obstacle. Mentioned/Related Episode 187: Physical and Mental Commitment How Committed Are You? Episode 104: Building Confidence Through Challenges

In this episode (39:51) Jennifer and Sarah talk about their experiences at the 2024 National Agility Championship with Esteban providing the livestream spectator perspective. You Will Learn Jenn's thoughts on the facility, the surface, and the organization of the event. Why the Hybrid round was a surprise. Esteban's view on the target q-rate for big events. Who was crowned National Agility Champion! Mentioned/Related You can find course maps and results here: https://akccompanionevents.com/index.php?eventSelected=National%20Agility%20Championship. Note that at some point, the results will be moved to this page: https://www.akc.org/sports/agility/events/akc-national-agility-championship/akc-national-agility-championship-past-events/ What to learn more about the event? Check out our Preview Podcast: Episode 337: 2024 AKC National Agility Championship Preview

In this episode (48:29) The 2024 AKC National Agility Championship takes place March 14-17 in Perry, Georgia. In this podcast, Sarah and Jennifer explore the event's structure, key contenders and share how you can follow along with the event in near real-time. You Will Learn The structure of the 2024 AKC National Agility Championship. How to watch the event for free. How dogs qualify for the Challengers Round. Who is judging the event. Mentioned/Related You can find course maps, running orders, and results here: https://akc.jotform.com/app/233567920055862 Watch here for FREE: https://akc.tv/event?id=10836 BEWARE OF SCAMS! Many Facebook scams happen around these big events. Review this webinar: How to Spot a Fake Dog Agility Facebook Page or Group From last year's event: The Evolution of the AKC National Agility Championship Finals Course Follow Jenn Crank with the Bad Dog Agility Before and After Video Series!

In this episode (46:45) In this episode, Sarah, Jennifer, and Esteban share their experiences and advice on how to leave the ring after the dog fails to meet the expected criteria. They discuss key dog training concepts, ethics, and explain who should and who should not use this strategy. You Will Learn When it's appropriate to walk your dog off the course. Why you should not leave the ring for handling errors. How to leave the ring properly. How positive reinforcement and negative punishment relate to each other. Which dogs are poorly suited for this training option. Mentioned/Related Episode 111: The Myth of the Ring-Wise Dog Proofing for Dog Agility Episode 256: Proofing Checklist for Dog Agility

In this episode (28:37) Join us as we explore the benefits of choosing adult dogs for agility training, discussing how their known characteristics can offer advantages over starting with a puppy. We cover sources for finding adult dogs, including rescues and breed-specific rehomes, and delve into the unique benefits of choosing an adult dog for your next agility dog. You Will Learn The benefits of acquiring an adult dog for agility training. How the issue of size can be important for certain breeds. Various sources to find adult dogs suitable for agility. How the idea of control affects how people think about acquiring their next agility dog. Mentioned/Related Episode 334: How Top Trainers Get Their Next Dog Episode 329: Early Take Off (ETO) – Part 1 Episode 330: Early Take Off (ETO) – Part 2

In this episode (30:08) In this podcast, Jennifer, Sarah, and Esteban explain how top agility handlers get their next dog while giving their own #1 quality they look for in a new dog or puppy. You Will Learn The importance of understanding precisely what you want in a dog before beginning your search. The value of observing and interacting with a variety of agility dogs that do not belong to you. The significance of repeat breedings and why they matter. Mentioned/Related Let's Talk Puppies! BDA Puppy Resources

In this episode (27:26) Join us as we discuss the importance of defining and achieving clear criteria for teeter performance. Learn about the challenges unique to the teeter that vary by the breed and weight of a dog, and how to determine exactly which criteria may be best suited to your dog. You Will Learn The importance of having clear criteria for teeter performances in agility. Common challenges in training the teeter and how they differ from other contact obstacles. Strategies for setting, teaching, and maintaining effective teeter criteria. Judging perspectives on teeter performances and training tips to meet competitive standards. Mentioned/Related Episode 257: Consistent Contact Criteria Teeter Drop Times All About the Teeter Episode 107: Training the Teeter Dog Agility Virtual Matchup: Small vs Large

In this episode (29:33) In this episode, Sarah, Jennifer, and Esteban touch on the evolution of seminars in the agility world, while sharing essential tips on choosing the right seminars while maximizing value and minimizing cost. You Will Learn How to choose the right seminars based on your training stage and goals. The advantages of learning from various instructors and the importance of a primary coach. Strategies for financial planning and maximizing the value of seminars. The evolving role of seminars in agility training.

In this episode (44:19) AKC Director of Agility Carrie DeYoung joins the podcast to discuss the latest round of proposed changes, giving us the insider perspective on how and why these recommendations came about and what they mean for the agility community. You Will Learn The background and details of the proposed agility updates and changes. The process and considerations behind these agility regulation recommendations. The fate of the table. What exactly a "bar" jump is. How you can make suggestions to AKC agility. Mentioned/Related The latest Rules and Regulations can be found here: https://www.akc.org/rules/ The current Regulations for Agility Trials and Agility Course Test (ACT) at the time of the podcast. The current AKC Agility Judge's Guidelines at the time of the podcast.

photo credit: Great Dane Photos In this episode (44:38) In this episode, we delve into Early Take Off (ETO) in agility dogs with our guest, Jean Lavalley. We explore the complexities of ETO, its effect on dogs' agility performance, and share personal experiences dealing with this challenge. Make sure you listen to Part 1 first: Episode 329: Early Take Off (ETO) – Part 1 You Will Learn What Early Take Off (ETO) is and how it affects agility dogs. The common signs and symptoms of ETO. Handling adjustments for dogs with ETO. How students and instructors should approach ETO. Mentioned/Related Episode 329: Early Take Off (ETO) – Part 1 Clean Run Focus Issue on Early Take Off You can find Set Point in Susan Salo's jump grid book. Don't miss the 2024 NAC Prep Course! Click here for information and to sign up!

In this episode (47:05) In this episode, we delve into Early Take Off (ETO) in agility dogs with our guest, Jean Lavalley. We explore the complexities of ETO, its effect on dogs' agility performance, and share personal experiences dealing with this challenge. You Will Learn What Early Take Off (ETO) is and how it affects agility dogs. The common signs and symptoms of ETO. Handling adjustments for dogs with ETO. How students and instructors should approach ETO. Mentioned/Related Clean Run Focus Issue on Early Take Off You can find Set Point in Susan Salo's jump grid book.

In this episode (39:04) In this episode, we share our personal agility goals for the upcoming year, as well as strategies for successfully reaching your own goals. We also discuss the importance of separating your self-worth from your agility accomplishments and failures. You Will Learn Effective strategies for setting and achieving agility training goals. How to maintain consistency and motivation in dog agility training. The value of community and connection within the agility world. Mentioned/Related Episode 325: The UKI North American Invitational Episode 44: Dog Agility Dreams & Goals Episode 274: 21 Days to a Better 2021 Episode 316: Make or Ditch New Year's Resolutions? Episode 124: Dealing with Disappointment in Dog Agility

photo credit: Great Dane Photos In this episode (48:58) In this episode, join Jennifer, Esteban, and Sarah as they delve into the world of verbal cues in dog agility. Explore the nuances of verbal versus non-verbal commands, how timing affects cues, and the impact of handler skills on training success. You Will Learn The difference between verbal and non-verbal cues in agility training. How the timing of verbal cues can impact a dog's performance. The role of handler proficiency in the effectiveness of verbal commands. Understanding the number of verbal cues needed for effective agility training. Mentioned/Related Episode 50: Puppy Paralysis Episode 295: The Timing of Verbal Cues How Committed Are You?

In this episode (43:39) In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome back Perry DeWitt to discuss her phenomenal success in both the UKI US Open and the AKC European Open Team Tryouts. We delve into her winning strategies, training techniques, and experiences in these top-level competitions. You Will Learn Perry's approach to handling multiple dogs at different jump heights. The complexities and rewards of competing and training with a spouse. Perry's advice to both new and seasoned competitors. Mentioned/Related Episode 321: Post NAC Wrap-Up with Emily Klarman and Perry DeWitt Episode 213: Interview with Westminster Champion Perry DeWitt Agility as a puzzle: Episode 324: Resource for AKC Agility Course Maps

In this episode (48:22) In this episode, Esteban and Sarah are joined by Greg Derrett, CEO and Co-founder of UKI, to discuss the inaugural UKI North American Invitational. You Will Learn The concept and logistics behind the UKI North American Invitational. Who gets invited to the event. How this invitational differs from other agility opens. The growth and future plans of UKI and the US Open. Mentioned/Related Link to the UKI North American Invitational Link to the UKI North American Invitational 2024 Documents Story of Astroturf Previous podcast covering the US West Coast Open: Episode 304: UKI in 2022 with Greg Derrett Episode 247: Interview with Greg Derrett on UKI At Home Agility Program Episode 182: Choose Your Own Agility Adventure

In this episode (32:59) In this episode, we're joined by Sammi Flynn, the admin of a Facebook group dedicated to archiving AKC Agility course maps. This group, with over 6,300 members, collects maps from various agility trials to aid in training and competition preparation. You Will Learn The purpose of the Facebook group and its approach to collecting agility course maps. The group's policy against critiquing maps or judges. How agility competitors use these maps for training, trend analysis, and mental puzzles. Sammi Flynn's journey from a novice to group admin and the challenges involved. Mentioned/Related Link to the AKC agility course maps Facebook group Episode 323: The Past, Present, and Future of AKC ISC

In this episode (38:13) In this episode, we're joined by Director of Agility for the American Kennel Club, Carrie DeYoung to talk about the recent changes to the International Sweepstakes Class (ISC). You Will Learn How ISC was used over the past two decades within AKC. Why the AKC made changes to the ISC program. How levels work (A1, A2, A3, J1, J2, J3). How to find your ISC results online. Mentioned/Related Episode 93: The New AKC Premier Class is Coming An example of the ISC results online. An example A1 Course (courtesy of the AKC Agility Course Maps Facebook Group) An example A2 Course An example A3 Course An example J2 Course An example J3 Course CHAI TEA???

In this episode (36:25) In this episode, we talk about the mental management required from the HANDLER after a DOG injury. Coming back from an injury requires a great medical team and a dedicated trainer. Rehab is hard work! But many handlers are surprised to discover that mental aspects of returning to the ring, even with the blessing of your veterinarian, is the hardest part of the process. You Will Learn Why getting back in the ring is the hardest part, mentally, for the handler. Why trying to monitor your dog while you run is working against your goals. That not every limp means catastrophe. Five benign things that might cause your dog to limp. Mentioned/Related Episode 6: CCL Injuries and TPLO Episode 194: Forced Breaks in Your Dog Agility Training Learn about the Invitational Prep Course

In this episode (48:02) In this episode, newly crowned AKC National Agility Champions Emily Klarman and Perry DeWitt talk about the this year's event! You Will Learn What was going through Perry's mind as she sat on the hot seat for over a dozen dogs on the way to capturing the win. Perry's advice to Emily just before Finals. What Perry, Emily and Jenn thought of the new schedule/format. Mentioned/Related Train with Perry and Emily at United Dog. March 22th, 2023 Wednesday Wrap Up (AKC Nationals) The Evolution of the AKC National Agility Championship Finals Course The Challengers Map The Finals Map

In this episode (29:31) In this episode, the BDA team talks about how we approach training as we get closer and closer to a big event. You Will Learn Why Jennifer and Esteban resist "bubble wrapping" their dogs before big events. Why you should focus on rate of reinforcement if you make a mistake in a trial close to the big event. Why Esteban often skips the practice run. How your focus on mistakes in the past can cause additional mistakes in the future. Mentioned/Related Episode 189: How to Structure Your Dog Agility Season Join our mailing list to get the Wednesday Wrap-Up in your email! This link will take you to a free Front Cross training video AND sign you up for the mailing list. Check out the Before and After online course (registration closes March 16th, 11:59pm)

In this episode (31:16) In this episode, the BDA team talks about preparing for a new puppy. You Will Learn How Sarah, Jennifer and Esteban prepare for each new puppy. How to use your day to day routine to create a supplies list. Jenn's shopping weakness. The one essential tool that Jenn only uses with new puppies. Mentioned/Related Don't forget your: Crates (LOT OF CRATES!) Crate covers X-Pens Gates Harness Snuffle Mat Antlers Puzzles and Enrichment Games Hol-ee Roller

In this episode (33:07) In this episode, the BDA team ponders the question: is there ever a time when a handler-dog team should NOT improve on or acquire a new skill? You Will Learn How your agility instructor influences your decision making. How to prevent yourself from "settling" for a suboptimal performance. How to challenge your dog and yourself on course. When settling for less is okay. How Jennifer and Sarah are preparing people for the AKC National Agility Championship in March. Mentioned/Related Episode 225: Using ROI to Structure Your Training Episode 250: Is Your Dog Agility "Good Enough"

(Photo Credit: Great Dane Photography) In this episode (36:56) In this episode, 20″ AKC Invitational winner Jane Bronson joins the podcast to talk about her dogs and multi-year experience at the event. You Will Learn How to pronounce nederlandse kooikerhondje. What it takes to make the finals at the AKC Invitational. What Jane and Jennifer thought of the course designs. How AKC.tv covered the event. Mentioned/Related Watch the Invitational on AKC.tv Check out the Finals Map. Course Design Trends at the AKC Invitational Episode 202: AKC Invitational with Carrie DeYoung How to say Nederlandse Kooikerhondje The AKC Standard for the Nederlandse Kooikerhondje.

In this episode (39:37) In this episode, the BDA crew helps you start your 2023 with an agility flourish as they tackle the issue of New Year's resolutions, including pros and cons, as well as tips for success. You Will Learn Why you should or (shouldn't) make New Year's Resolutions. How goal setting and action planning are different. How the intention-behavior gap affects your New Year's resolutions. How approach goals and avoidance goals impact your psychology. What the acronym SMART stands for. How hard your goals should be. Mentioned/Related Goal Setting and Action Planning for Health Behavior Change Episode 274: 21 Days to a Better 2021 Episode 210: How to Goal Set for Big Events in 2019 Episode 155: Three Emotions Keeping You From Setting Agility Goals Episode 44: Dog Agility Dreams & Goals Achieve Your Dog Agility Goals

(Photo Credit: A. Wooten Photography) In this episode (38:09) In this episode, the BDA crew identifies top priorities for people's winter agility training outside of the ring. You Will Learn What skills you can teach and/or improve outside of the ring. Why winter might be a great time to get a new dog or puppy. Why Esteban started the Wednesday Wrap Up How the decline of USDAA and growth of UKI might be related. How Jennifer qualified a sheltie for the AKC Invitational. Mentioned/Related Does Your Dog Check Out When You Lead Out? (Facebook Live) Episode 189: How to Structure Your Dog Agility Season Episode 202: AKC Invitational with Carrie DeYoung Soccer vs Football Linguistic History December 7, 2022 Wednesday Wrap Up (EOTT, Cynosport, Holiday Movies) Episode 154: Kids and Dogs and Jennifer Crank

In this episode (23:52) In this episode, we talk with Paul Campanella and Tom Bradley about the non-profit Take the Lead. "Take the Lead was established in 1993 to provide direct services, support and care for those in the purebred dog community who were facing the devastating challenges of life-threatening or terminal illness. In addition, we are now able to provide assistance in cases of civil disasters." You Will Learn The story behind Take the Lead. How to apply for assistance from Take the Lead. How you can contribute to Take the Lead. A sneak peek into the 10th Anniversary of the Masters Agility Championship at Westminster! Mentioned/Related Take the Lead Support the Take the Lead Mission by becoming a member: https://takethelead.org/membership/

In this episode (29:01) In this episode, we talk with junior handler Jada Sawhney who just came back from the Border Collie Specialty and the Incredible Dog Challenge with podium finishes! You Will Learn How Jada got started in agility. Why we chose Jada as a Bad Dog Agility Sponsored Athlete. How the opportunities for juniors have changed over the last 15 years. How the Border Collie Specialty and the Incredible Dog Challenge are structured. Why Sarah and Esteban are agility boomers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_LUiuByyPA Mentioned/Related Announcing Jada as a Bad Dog Agility Sponsored Athlete! Watch Jada's runs from the Incredible Dog Challenge.

In this episode (47:44) In this episode, we talk with Angie Benacquisto, the first American to win the European Open! You Will Learn How Angie prepared herself to be able to run the long lines typical of international agility at the highest levels. The effect that the competition rules have on the competitiveness of the event. How Angie's path to gold included 15th non-clean runs. Mentioned/Related Episode 275: Handler Fitness and Agility Watch Angie and Sundae's winning run!

In this episode (32:15) In this episode, we discuss how travel before big events affects performance and what you can do about it! You Will Learn The travel strategy that has led Jennifer to national championships and world medals! Why thinking about what causes you stress can help direct your travel plans. How the body responds to chronic versus acute physical stress. The importance of warming up after travel.

In this episode (26:37) In this episode, Jennifer explains how to deal with ring conflicts and shares her advice for running multiple dogs at a trial. You Will Learn Strategies for dealing with ring conflicts. How to deal with the stress of running multiple dogs at a trial. When you should try to avoid ring conflicts. How to train yourself to deal with ring conflicts. The importance of visualization to success. Mentioned/Related How to Use the Practice Jump Episode 182: Choose Your Own Agility Adventure

In this episode (58:44) In this podcast, Sarah and Esteban talk with Jennifer Crank and Jean Lavalley about Bee's record setting Westminster win. You Will Learn Why it is harder for the 16″ dog to be named the overall winner than it is for the 20″ dog. What Westminster records Jennifer has set and which record she has her eye on. The story behind "Team Bee" throwing out the first pitch at a Major League Baseball game! Mentioned/Related Watch Bee's Winning Run: here (view from stands) and here (Westminster Facebook) and here (Fox broadcast plus lots of great behind the scenes including the announcement of the overall winner) Cool Westminster Winner Announcement

In this episode (46:25) In this podcast, Jane Dewey joins the podcast to talk about putting on a trial from the club perspective. You Will Learn The responsibilities of the club and club members. Why small clubs may rent out their name. The difference between a club and a business. Mentioned/Related Podcast #1 in our Behind the Scenes series: Episode 305: Interview with Judge Sheyla Gutierrez Podcast #2 in our Behind the Scenes series: Episode 306: Interview with Trial Secretary Noreen Bennett The Growth of AKC Games

In this episode (1:08:31) In this episode, newly crowned AKC National Agility Champions Jennifer Crank, Betsey Lynch, and Amber McCune talk about the NAC experience in this big wrap up podcast! You Will Learn How competitors felt about the dirt surface. How the color of the dirt may have impacted dogs. What the champions thought about the Finals course. What the venue was like. Mentioned/Related The 20 Foot Trap Episode 305: Interview with Judge Sheyla Gutierrez Train with Amber at American K9 Country

In this episode (41:23) In this podcast, Noreen Bennett of PawPrint Trials joins the podcast to educate competitors about the role a trial secretary plays at AKC trials. You Will Learn The responsibilities of the trial secretary. How management of trial entries and results have evolved over the years. Why most trial entries are not handled electronically. The future of agility trial management. How Jennifer feels about her brief stint as a trial secretary. Mentioned/Related Podcast #1 in our Behind the Scenes series: Episode 305: Interview with Judge Sheyla Gutierrez PawPrint Trials

In this episode (54:19) In this podcast, AKC judge Sheyla Gutierrez shares how she came to be a judge at the National Agility Championship as well as her thoughts on course design and responsibilities of a judge. You Will Learn Why AKC courses can be difficult to design. What course design trends are happening in AKC agility. How Sheyla came to judge at the upcoming NAC. What judges can and can not control. Mentioned/Related Sheyla's Website

In this episode (49:53) UKI co-founder Greg Derrett joins the podcast talk about UKI in North America, including the US Open, cup events, and the new West Coast Open. You Will Learn How UKI started as an organization created by competitors, for competitors. Why UKI created the West Coast Open. How many members UKI has in North America. The difference between a "Cup" event and a "Classic" event. How the bye system works in UKI. Mentioned/Related Episode 12: Interview with Greg and Laura Derrett Episode 150: The Global Judging Program with Lee Gibson The UKI Website: https://ukagilityinternational.com/ Bye Tracker Episode 42: The Internet, Dog Agility, and You

In this episode (44:02) Swedish champion Enya Habel and German champion Anna Hinze join the podcast to talk about European agility, course design trends, jump heights, breed diversity, and how Covid-19 impacted the sport in their countries. You Will Learn What course design trends that FCI competitors are seeing. How many jump heights are in FCI agility trials. How many people compete at the Swedish and German national championships. How Covid-19 affected training and competition in Sweden and Germany. Mentioned/Related Episode 137: Swedish Jump Heights and Its Effect on FCI Follow Enya on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/enya.habel Follow Anna on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clickerjunkies Enya's Training Diary Anna's Online Courses

In this episode (32:04) In this podcast, Sarah, Jennifer and Esteban talk about Whac-A-Mole and dog agility. You Will Learn Why training your dog can feel like playing Whac-A-Mole. The difference between training sequentially vs in parallel. How you can use problem-based training to fix your issues. Mentioned/Related Never heard of Whac-A-Mole? Here's the wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whac-A-Mole Episode 226: Sequential vs Parallel Training On the Job Training using Placement of Reward Episode 139: The Test/Train/Adjust Cycle

In this episode (15:25) In this podcast, Sarah, Jennifer and Esteban talk the difference between OVERUSE and MISUSE and dive deeper into what your instructor may mean when using these terms. You Will Learn Why instructors (including us!) should be careful with terminology. Why "overuse" may be misuse in disguise. Why it's problematic to have one cue for a wide range of responses. Mentioned/Related Episode 63: A Newcomer's Guide to Handling Systems Episode 30: Analyzing Mistakes and a Look at Systems

In this episode (29:45) In this podcast, Sarah, Jennifer and Esteban talk how having goals for trialing, beyond ribbons and titles, can help you improve your dog agility performance. You Will Learn How being clear on your trialing goals can save you time and money. What Jennifer and Esteban do with their ribbons. How your goals can shift through a dog's career. How you can structure your goals leading to big events. Mentioned/Related Episode 182: Choose Your Own Agility Adventure

In this episode (33:17) In this podcast, Sarah, Jennifer and Esteban talk about "playing it safe" when you're running an agility course. When should you play it safe? What are the pros and cons of playing it safe? You Will Learn What it means to "play it safe". When handlers should or should not play it safe. Why Esteban changed his approach in recent years. How Jennifer changed her approach over the years. How to determine what is best for you and your dog. Mentioned 2014 AKC NAC Round 1 Wrap Choice – Pace vs Gitchi Episode 182: Choose Your Own Agility Adventure

n this episode (25:29) In this episode, Jennifer, Sarah, and Esteban discuss the evolution of how people manage their dogs during classes—when it's NOT their turn. You Will Learn Different strategies for managing your dog, including a leash, cot/bed, or crate. Pros and cons of each strategy. What the BDA team prefers to use when training alone vs in a class or seminar. Mentioned Episode 1: Using a Crate During Training

In this episode (35:33) In this podcast, the BDA crew share how the sport shapes their fashion choices on course! You Will Learn Why Jennifer never wears sunglasses. How people with long hair might benefit from a ponytail. How your clothing choices may affect your dog's performance.

In this episode (34:06) In this podcast Jennifer, Sarah, and Esteban answer your question "When do most people move their dog to preferred/performance/select for the lower jump height?" You Will Learn The most common reasons people move their dogs to a lower height class. How your dog may benefit from jumping a lower height. Factors to consider as your dog ages. Mentioned Jennifer Crank and Bee Place in all Four Rounds at the AKC European Open Team Tryouts Sarah Baker's Online Course: Agility Foundation for Puppies and Young Dogs (featuring 2022 EO Team Member Skeptic) ETO –> Early Take Off

In this episode (30:26) In this episode, Sarah and Esteban discuss the timing of verbal cues. You Will Learn Whether or not you need verbal cues. Why it's important to know how verbal your dog really is. When to give verbal cues. Common mistakes people make when using verbal cues. Mentioned Episode 76: Verbal Cues in Dog Agility The 20 Foot Trap How Committed Are You? Episode 187: Physical and Mental Commitment

In this episode (54:21) In this episode, Jennifer, Sarah and Esteban talk with Kathy Keats about dogs, sport, and life. You Will Learn Why mindset is important for beginners. How handlers can improve their mindset. What it means to be "in the zone". Why handlers underperform at big events. How to separate your agility results from your self-worth. Mentioned/Related The Kathy Keats Show (Podcast) Kathy Keats' Website Episode 159: Handler Muscle Memory for Dog Agility