| Whether or not you ask for the dog to look at you during obedience is definitely a preference. There are many who feel that to have a top level competition dog (195+ on regular basis), that it is needed.
Dogs are EXCELLENT at picking up on body cues. However, if they're not watching you, you could turn while they're staring across the building and they may get a half step behind your (or bump you on a left turn) and that will cost you points.
I have a friend who cues her dog with her eyes alone. Head and shoulder turns that are too noticable can get you nailed for handler help. Obviously, you are to be moving naturally, but the movements that you can make in the breed ring are more drastic than what you could get away with in obedience (at times). When Janice is turning left, her eyes look left and the dog reads it, adjusts pace and stays perfectly in heel position.
It all depends what you're aiming for! :)
__________________
Gretchen Caldwell
"I request permission to join the Validity Committee." - Dwight |