by DemoDick » July 14th, 2007, 1:09 am
Another thing to remember is the two sports require a different approach from the handler, not just the dog. Whereas Schutzhund is patterned and there are no surprises, a key component of PSA is the surprise-based scenario. I've seen a few people who are very good schutzhund handlers completely lose it for a second on the field when the situation suddenly evolved in an unanticipated direction. Handler is lost, dog is lost, and points are being deduced. PSA, or any surprise-based sport, requires a cool head and the ability to adapt in split second time. I love just drawing up a scenario and practicing it (like a send out of a vehicle, out and recall through the opposite window, then a resend while the vehicle is moving about 5 mph). That's the kind of pointless stuff that I like to do. But I really think it helps on trial day when you KNOW you're dog is easily capable of what's coming. Less stress for you, which in turn translates down the leash and allows you to work with your dog.
Sometimes though, you go from that type of training to militaristc sch marching with crisp turns and swinging arms and the dog thinks "Did mom join the Gestapo?"
I think you just have to be realistic about what it is you want to achieve and be ready to sacrifice or at least postpone some of your goals if necessary.
Demo Dick
"My first priority will be to reinstate the assault weapons ban PERMANENTLY as soon as I take office...I intend to work with Congress on a national no carry law, 1 gun a month purchase limits, and bans on all semi-automatic guns."-Barack Obama
"When in doubt, whip it out."-Nuge