| Re: The leaps from Novice to Open and from Open to Utility
Open work is very direct. Everything works off the handler. In Utility everything is done away from the handler with decisions and concentration required on the part of the dog. A dog can let its attention wander a bit and still get the dumbell. It can look at the next ring and still hear the drop command. In Utility, a slight drift can cause the dog to get the wrong glove. Articles are often in different places and a less than perfect turn can do the same thing, not only can the pile get "lost" but the dog still has to discern the right scent in addition to all the retrieve requirements. Blink and he will miss a signal, direction for jumps or signals for signal exercise. I had one dog who got his UD three shows in a row. That is the only one and it was I'm sure just a quirk. I don't remember for sure, but I believe the average all breed is something like 29 shows for the 3 legs. Also, note, that it takes time for seasoning, not just the learning. |