This is similar to a barrel racing course, but for dogs. Beginner level is on-leash and the handler can go around the barrels with the dog. Performer is the same course, but the dog runs off leash (handler can still go around the barrels or send from any point).
Here is a quick video of the Performer level:
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Kv7CvdJGFrc
You can practice the beginner/performer levels of the “Clover” class. This is 3 barrels around a ‘start box’. If it were a trial, the dog would need to go around each barrel, with the barrel on the dog’s left, completing the barrels in a clockwise pattern. Green, then blue, then red in the diagram below. Between each loop of a barrel, the dog (& handler) needs to come back to the center square.
The center square is 3’ x 3’. Distance to each barrel is measured from the center of the square: For small dogs (12″ or less tall), the barrels would be 18’ away. Medium dogs = 20’. Large dogs (over 18” at the shoulder) would be 22’ away.
Beginner level allows dogs to be on leash and Performer level is off leash but handler can move to the barrels with the dog.
HALTER level- This level has 4 barrels, set in each corner. The patterns looks like a 4 leaf clover. We can practice this level as well. It is off leash and for trials, the handler will need to stay in the center and send the dog around each barrel in the proper pattern/direction. This is my dog practicing Halter level: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44S4XsIS4es
Training
If your dog doesn’t have a send to an object to go around, we will start the training there and can work in the shade of the tent.
If the dog does already know how to go out and around an object, we can work on helping the dog get comfortable with the barrels, pattern, and distance. Note that the course is in full sun.
Sessions are $5 per run and can be combined with Happy Ratter runs. Payment is done when you arrive and I can accept cash, check or paypal.
Scent Sports Dog Training Center 