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THE DEFINITION OF FAST PACE & HOW TO TRAIN IT As an AKC judge, one of the things that I have been hearing from our obedience reps is that exhibitors are not going fast enough on the fast pace in heeling. Judges observe many forms of the fast, such as a high leg lift by the exhibitor, up and down motion without forward motion, and no change of pace at all. Let’s examine what the Rules and Regulations for obedience say about the fast pace. Section 7, of Chapter 3 of the Obedience regulations requires that minor or substantial deductions, depending on the circumstances, for failure of the dog or handler to speed up noticeably for the fast. The judge must then determine if this is a 1 to 5 point error, depending on how it looks to that particular judge. In training classes, my advice to new handlers is the fast pace means run! Of course though, heel position must be maintained during the acceleration and when changing pace back to normal. One of my very favorite training exercises to do with both my new dogs and my competing dogs is to do what I like to call leaning into the speed. Picture you and your Golden Retriever in heel position in a sit. Then take your body and lean forward until you can’t without falling. Then, and this is the fun part, break into a run. I like to say to my dog, ready, ready, while leaning, then a let’s go! The dogs think it is a great game to play and they start cueing in on your shoulder movement which is leaning forward. I will also have a treat ready in my left hand, which is in a fist next to my waist, and after a few running steps, will put that hot dog right in their mouth! Jackpot for running with me! In the ring, I can legally use that shoulder movement to accelerate the dog into a very nice fast pace! Remember, the dog, through playing this game has been taught that a forward shoulder movement would produce a treat. I will look forward to seeing you all at the National! The Open B/Utility B classes are so large that they will be split this year! How cool is that! Two winners for points in these classes |
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