Beyond Basic Obedience?!

[TClarke]

Trixie and I are coming up on the end of our six week basic obedience course. I was wondering if there's anything beyond this? Of course I have to ask my trainer, but I was wondering what others have done.

I don't want to do more obedience because she's 'bad' or anything, she just LOVES going to class, being with other dogs, and you can see that class really challenges her to think and be stimulated.

When people talk about agility training, or obedience beyond just basic obedience, is that typically only done for competition or can a dog be enrolled in such activities in much the same way we sign our kids up for T-Ball and dance lessons?

I was just curious what other people have done, or if there is even anyone out there with the same question.

Thanks.

 

[JulieM]

There is usually advanced obedience which focuses on off-lead work. Then there is competition obedience and agility. I'm sure you can enroll in any class without having to compete - but once you get going with it you may just find that competitive bug in your ear

If Trixie loves class I would certainly continue it with her - but I would compete with her, too. With the recent bad press Boxers have gotten, every obedience title is a boost to the breed

 

[ninersneal]

Our local kennel club allows you to continue training for up to a year in the same level class without additional fees. I think it is a good idea to continue to reinforce basics as long as possible. I really want to try agility, Roxanne would love it, my living room is already her agility course!!!! But I want it to be when she is ready so there is less stress for her and me.

 

[Brutus and Amaya's Mom]

Brutus and Amaya are currently enrolled in "Junior" level obedience. After passing beginner, which taught basic obedience and prepared the dogs for a CGC they took sophmore. Sophmore was off leash and worked to cement the commands off leash and under larger distractions. Junior class is all off leash, teaching advanced commands and hand signals preparing the dogs for companion dog titles. I hope to begin agility this summer.

You may also want to look into things like agility or therapy dogs classes. There are 100 different things you can do with your dog. Do some research and find out what you and your dog would enjoy most.

I know what you mean about "loves to go to class" after so much time in school my dogs get cabin fever if they are away to long :D

 

[Tykie'sMom]

Tyson is only 6 months old and has been through puppy training, basic training and is now currently enrolled in advanced level training. She loves it! She loves the interaction with other dogs and the rewards she receives from an activity well performed. Our trainer has already made plans for her to progress to agility training.

I believe most training facilities offer training courses beyond the basic obedience training. Keeping you dog in training is a very positive move.