schutzhund trial

[SWEETBREW]

I have been invited to go watch my first schutzhund trial this weekend!
My trainer thinks that Brew would be an excellent candidate for this type of training and asked me to go watch it to see If I think that I could do it.
I am very excited as I have been trying to decide what avenue I wanted to pursue with him.
It is at the local club - Is there anything that I should be watching for or any questions I should ask if I have a chance to talk to any members?
BTW - they are located in Canada but are members of USRC.

[mwaters]

Hey, I'm going to that trial too. My husband has his Shepherd entered for SchH3 he is there now and I'm flying out on Friday. Come find me...I'll chat with you...look for long blond hair and a black and tan USRC jacket.

Melissa Waters

[SWEETBREW]

thanks, I will try to find you!
Do you know the start time for saturday?

[mwaters]

I don't know for sure but will try and find out and let you know...

Melissa

[SWEETBREW]

Maybe I should be more specific with my question here...as I haven't gotten alot of reply's...
If I am looking at joining a schutzund club - what things would I be looking at finding out about that particular club before joining?
All responses would be appreciated as I am totally new to this training arena.
Thanks

[pazzo]

In my opinion, I would look for:
1. What accomplishments the training director has, what is his level of experience and how many different breeds he has worked, trained and had success with.
2. I would look to see the achievements of other club members.
3. Go watch how they train, make sure you are comfortable with the training techniques they use. Look to see if they change techniques for different dogs. (obviously every dog is different, see if they are well rounded enough to use different techniques for different dogs)
4. Helpers! Check out the helpers, they could make or brake a dog. Check out thier achievements as well.

I would go out to a few clubs and check them out before I put so much time and all of myself into a club. There are some great trainers and some not so great trainers, the more experiences you have, the better idea of who and where you'll want to work! I am sure there are alot more, but this is a quick list and I think #1 is MOST important. Good luck, have fun and keep us posted!

Dana