Foundation Jump Training
Independent Study: This class was offered previously and has been completed to working students. Independent Study students now have access to all lessons/videos, unable to post. Students work through the lessons independently.
Duration: You will have access to the class for 6 months
This class is part of the jumping program outlined in the book Mastering Jumping Skills (MJS). Foundation Jump Training covers material equivalent to that found in MJS Chapter 5.
The goal for early jump training is to lay a solid foundation while maintaining consistency with the body language you will use later to cue your dog on course. In this course a clicker and treats will be used to shape your dog’s initial jumping efforts which are the foundation of all future jumping skills.
This course covers the introduction of
- The Jump
- Collection
- Bending
- Jumping from variable distance and angle
- Jumping toward and away from handler
- Fundamental location, shoulder and motion cues
Throughout these early lessons, you will encourage round form over the bar and help your dog develop his ability to collect and bend. Allowing your dog to take his time to figure out the necessary mechanics and problem solve will build his awareness of the bar and ability to jump cleanly. All initial jumping behaviors will be offered by the dog, not cued by the handler. Your dog should be able to progress to full height (not necessarily competition height) and be prepared to advance to the jumping class by the end of the course (if not, extra time will be given for an added fee). Your goal is to provide your dog with the building blocks he needs to help him reach his fullest jumping potential.
Age
There is no predetermined age when foundation jump training should start. If you are training a youngster, wait until you feel your dog is physically and mentally mature enough to begin. It is difficult to determine what age it is safe to start training a young dog to jump. Most veterinarians advise waiting until the dog is over one year old. But the early jumping work done as described in this course can be started at less than one year of age with most healthy, light- to medium-weight, athletically structured dogs. There is no speed involved—all of the jumping work is done at a walk or standstill. By working on a well-cushioned surface, physical stress can be minimized. Do not hesitate to consult a veterinarian, preferably one specializing in performance dogs, if you are concerned and need guidance about when it is appropriate to start jump training with your youngster.
Equipment Needed
- One Wingless Jump
- Treats
- Clicker
- Mastering Jumping Skills Volume 1 by Linda Mecklenburg will be used in this class.
Foundation Jump Training – Independent Study
Release of Liability and Claim: By purchasing a class, you agree to the following: I understand that dog training is not without risk. I agree to release and forever discharge Linda Mecklenburg and Awesome Paws from any and all liability. Cancellation Policy: I understand that once registered, refunds will not be available. I understand that this course is intended for my personal and private use only. Any reproduction without the expressed written consent of the class instructor(s) is prohibited.