Since I use this blog to illustrate what I teach in my regular lessons, I thought I would give you all an update on the results of my “drilling lesson” a couple of weeks ago.

After ONE week of 2 – 3 times schooling on their dogs, the results were amazing!  I took several to the big field in Valley Center and the dogs obeyed better than ever.  Less hesitation in their responses (both dog AND handler), whistle quality was improved, dogs ran the course  with more precision.

The format for drilling is as follows:  5 minutes of flanks, stop, walk-up w/out moving sheep.  If PERFECT, the dog gets to move sheep.  If not, drill continues for another 5 minutes.  Rest briefly and try again.  The dogs caught on immediately and w/in one minute of the drilling started REALLY listening and not guessing or anticipating owner’s commands.  Now that my students understand how to drill, the results are apparent.

I will be teaching another one in the next couple of weeks, as some couldn’t make the last one.

At the AKC trial one of my students placed 1st in Adv A.  She is running for CH points so this was a great achievement. The other person finished her title and jumped to Adv w/ a 3rd place ribbon.  (The trial closed earlier that expected and only these two got in on time)

Drilling WORKS!!