Annual Awards 2018 How does your dog cope with failure? Popular dog names and breeds Changes to use of off-lead areas Our newest Rally-O champion ...
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March 2019 | Volume 31 | Number 1
The Good Companion
Annual Awards 2018
How does your dog cope with failure?
Popular dog names and breeds
Changes to use of off-lead areas
Our newest Rally-O champion
© ACT Companion Dog Club Inc 2019
TERM BREAK
Term 1 classes end on Thursday 11 April
Classes resume after the
school holidays on
Wednesday 1st May
Thursday 2nd May
Sunday 5th May
Enjoy Easter
but remember ...
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page |2
The Good Companion
March 2019 | Volume 31 | Number 1
Contents
The Class Of 2019—Our New Trainee Instructors 4
President’s Message by Lesley Pothan 5
The Connect And Participate Expo 2019 6
From The Dog Kennel by Anne Robertson | Thanks For Your Contribution 7
About Our Club | Committees 2018-19 8
What’s Coming Up At Our Club? 9
Popular Names And Breeds At The Club 11
Dogs-As-Therapy Team by Lesley Pothan 12
2018 Annual Awards 13-25
Important Changes To Use Of Off-lead Exercise Areas 26
Hatches And Matches 27
Tracking — Is It For You And Your Dog by Jake Blight 29-30
Oh Behave! — How Does Your Dog Cope With Failure? by Jess McNamara-Rice 31-32
A Day Of Firsts — Our Rally-O Debut by Leslie Roberts 33-34
Obedience And Rally-Obedience Trial Results 35-40
Flyball Feats And K9 Disc by Rhonda Cameron 41-42
Agility Action by Linda Spinaze 43-45
Term Four (2018) Results 47-48
News From The PAWS Shop by Katrina Morton I Shop Shelf Prices 49-50
Club Activities I Fees I Contact Us 51-52
Class Times 53
Recycling Update I Calendar Of Events 2019 54-55
Off-lead Exercise At Our Club 56
Cover picture
Beagle Maximus from Albuquerque, USA, visited the Canberra Balloon Spectacular in March.
Maximus is a little bigger than your average Beagle, measuring 100’ tall and 120’ long
(Photo: Anne Robertson)
It’s important to know:
The opinions and claims expressed in this publication, whether in articles, correspondence or in any other form,
are not necessarily those of the ACT Companion Dog Club Inc. Neither the Editor nor the ACT Companion
Dog Club Inc accepts responsibility for the accuracy of these items nor endorses the opinions or services of
third parties mentioned in this publication. The ACT Companion Dog Club Inc gives permission for the
reprinting of articles appearing in The Good Companion, except where copyright has been stated, provided
acknowledgement is given to the Club and the author.
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 3
Did you know that your instructors are all volunteers?
Please give them a special ‘thank you’
during National Volunteer Week
The Class of 2019
Each year the Club conducts a study course for members to become Club instructors.
This year’s trainees include (L-R standing) Dianne, Penny, Katie, Janet, Kathleen, Julie, Fiona,
Sophie, Izabela and Nikki with Training Sub-Committee member Kath Hallam; and (L-R kneeling)
Ping and Oliver with course mascot ‘Bea’ the Labrador Retriever
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page |4
President’s Message
By Lesley Pothan
Well here we are in 2019!
Last year we celebrated the Club’s 60th
anniversary. So in this our 61st year a huge
welcome back to our returning members,
instructors, committee members, other
volunteers and staff and welcome to all our
new members who started classes in Term 1.
The Club’s overall operations are managed by
a Main Committee of 13 members. Each sport
has a Sub-committee to look after its activities.
All committee and sub-committee members
are volunteers as are the many instructors who
take your classes. Without this group of
dedicated members the Club as it is today
could not exist. With a club run by volunteers
there is always something needing to be done
and we could probably use your skills!
At the end of Term 4 last year we held the
Club’s Annual Awards and Christmas party. Lots
of members – with partners and families in tow –
attended. A great time was had by all. The
results of last year’s achievements are on
pages 13-25 of this edition of the magazine.
Congratulations to all those who earned titles
and were presented with awards.
The demand for the Club’s Behaviour Training
classes keeps growing and bookings for each
term are filling up a good month prior to classes
starting. The Club then has a rush of
prospective members wanting to book in the Above: Lesley with her certificate recognising 10
few weeks leading up to the start of the term years of service on the Club’s Main
and we find ourselves in the position of turning Committee, initially as Treasurer and now as
President. Thanks Lesley!
them away or booking them into the following
term. To meet the demand we need more
instructors that can take these classes. Our Dogs-as-Therapy team featured in an
article in the Canberra Weekly magazine
On that note this year’s Instructors Course recently – you may have seen it – and we have
started a few weeks ago with twelve members subsequently received a lot of queries about
who have been training their dogs for a little this service which is now in its 31st year.
while at the Club taking part. Good luck to all
our new potential instructors. There is lots to And so begins a new year at CDC. As usual we
learn but it is well worth the effort. are off to a running start and I’m sure it will be
another great one.
Our sporting activities are well underway this
year with an Agility trial held on the grounds in
February, a Flyball team competing at the Remember, when training your special
Royal Canberra Show and Obedience and four-legged friend: be attentive, be patient,
Rally-O trials also held on the grounds in early be nurturing and enjoy the process.
March. Results appear elsewhere in the Your dog is depending on you to help it live
magazine. harmoniously in our world.
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 5
Join us at CAPExpo 2019
Come along to the Old Bus Depot at Kingston on
Saturday 4 May
for the annual Connect and Participate Expo
Come and say ‘hello’ at the Club’s stall
Watch the demonstrations by the Club’s Dances With Dogs members
and Secondary Companion Drill Team
This will be our 6th year at this fabulous community event
Below: Boston, Derry, Brunig and friends at last year’s CAPExpo
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 6
From the Dog Kennel
Editor — Anne Robertson
Welcome to the first issue of The Good Companion for 2019. Did you
know that the Club has produced a regular newsletter for members since
1970? It was another 19 years, however, until the newsletter became ‘The
Good Companion’— and here we are in 2019 celebrating the 30th
anniversary of the Club’s masthead. A brief history of the magazine will
be published later this year.
As is the tradition for the magazine, this issue contains all the details of the
achievements of Club members in 2018. Why not make it your goal to
have your name included in the honour roll for 2019? Want to know more
about the perpetual trophies and other awards on offer? Contact the
Club Office for details of the Club’s Annual Award criteria.
Have you ever wondered what the Club’s most popular dog breeds and dog names are? Well,
this issue of the magazine will satisfy your curiosity. We’ve analysed the data from 745 dogs who
have joined the Club in the past two years and found the answers! There’s also lots of information
about the Club’s sports activities (including trial results) and announcements of births and
marriages too.
Thank you to all the members who have contributed content for this issue. It’s much appreciated.
Articles, suggestions, photos, illustrations and paid advertisements for the magazine are always
welcome. Email to contact@actcdc.org.au anytime. Did you know the magazine is available in
full colour on the Club’s website? It can be downloaded in all its glory at www.actcdc.org.au/the-
good-companion.html. Use Adobe Acrobat PDF viewer for best results.
See you in class ...
Thanks For Your Contribution
The Committee and Club members THANK the following volunteer instructors for giving their time
in Term One (February-April 2019):
Behaviour Training: Di Adams, Catriona Anderson, Gillian Atkin, Susan Barnard (part), Stuart
Barrow, Jill Bradfield, Christina Erwin, Barbara Gough, Sharon Haines (part), Kath Hallam, Linda
Harper, Wendy Hathaway, Hilarie Kemp, Peter Hendriks, Gabby Luksza, Rachel McKeever, Rowan
McKeever, Heather McPherson, Laura Naffa, Melinda Parrett, Lesley Pothan, Louise Raisin, Jane
Richardson, Leslie Roberts, Jane Rylands, Linda Spinaze (part), Jess Strain, Jackie Trotter, Lizzie
Waddell, Juliet Ward, Chris Woodgate (part) Reserves: Jane Vickers, Claire Weekes Trainee: Ping
Leong
Agility (Session 1): Amanda Delaney (part), Wendy Hathaway (part),
Denise Iglesias (part), Maureen Lewis, Simone Pensko (part), Cath
Perry, Linda Spinaze, Lucy Williams, Steph Windsor
Flyball: Cathy Vaughan (with assistance from Pauline Dikmans)
Obedience Trialling and Rally Obedience: Laraine Frawley, Naarilla THANK YOU
Hirsch, Geoff Woodman, Tricia Woodman
DWD: Raelene Stewart
— CDC Instructors —
Serving the CDC canine community for more than 60 years!
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 7
About Our Club
The ACT Companion Dog Club (CDC), The aims and objectives of the Club are to:
established in 1958 as the first dog training Club • promote responsible dog ownership and the
in the ACT, has an average membership of general welfare of dogs;
around 800 each year. It is a non-profit • teach members to train their dogs, of
organisation relying mostly on volunteers to run whatever breed, in dog obedience and other
activities with some occasional grant related canine skills, using motivational
assistance. About 80 instructors volunteer their training methods;
time to conduct behaviour and dog sport • promote participation and training in a range
classes in Obedience, Flyball, Agility, Dances of dog sports;
With Dogs, Rally-O, K9 Disc and Tracking from • promote and participate in dog training and
February to November each year. The Club other activities associated with dog training;
also has an active Dogs-As-Therapy group that • support the rights of dog owners, provided
visits nursing homes with their dogs for the that such ownership is conducted in a
enjoyment of the residents. responsible manner;
• actively promote community interaction with
While much of the work in maintaining and dogs;
running the Club is undertaken on a volunteer • provide facilities necessary or convenient for
basis we do have some paid help. We have a its activities;
paid office manager and junior shop assistant • promote positive relationships between
and the mowing of the grounds is undertaken owners and dogs; and
by a contractor. The Club caters for disabled • enhance the development of social skills of
access with paved paths, designated parking dogs.
spaces and toilet facilities.
COMMITTEES 2018-19
President Lesley Pothan | Dogs-as-Therapy | Work Health and Safety
Senior Vice-President Anne Robertson | Magazine Editor | Training Liaison | Actsmart Recycling
Junior Vice-President Heather McPherson I Security
Treasurer Sharon Haines
Secretary Susan Barnard | Public Officer
Main Committee Rhonda Cameron | Marketing & Promotion I Flyball & K9 Disc Liaison
Members Kath Hallam
Jeanette Johnson | Obedience Trialling & Rally Obedience Liaison
Hilarie Kemp I Grounds | Tracking & Nosework Liaison
Rachel McKeever | Social Media | Website
Katrina Morton | Shop | Housekeeping | Working Bees
Holly Rieger | Dances with Dogs
Linda Spinaze I Agility Liaison
Training Convenor Anne Robertson Members Kath Hallam| Hilarie Kemp |
Jess McNamara–Rice| Lesley Pothan | Leanne Smith
Obedience Trialling Convenor Jeanette Johnson Members Judith Barlow | Carmen Kong |
(including Rally-O) Laraine Frawley | Wendy Hathaway | Sue Howie | Cath Perry | Lara Sedgmen |
Geoff Woodman | Patricia Woodman
Flyball Training & Convenor Vacant Members Rhonda Cameron | Vanessa March I
Competition Cathy Vaughan
Agility Training & Convenor Linda Spinaze Members Amanda Delaney I Nikki Fallon I Naarilla Hirsch
Trialling Denise Iglesias | Lucy Langshaw | Kylie White
Dances with Dogs Convenor Raelene Stewart Members Holly Rieger
K9 Disc Vacant
Tracking Jake Blight
Have a comment or idea you’d
Instructors’ Library Karen Haines like to share?
PAWS Shop Jared Sneyers I Jess Charman Email
contact@actcdc.org.au
Secom Security 1300 138 769 or 1300 360 535
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 8
What’s Coming Up At Our Club ?
How should I prepare for classes in late autumn Is tracking on again this year ?
and winter ?
As the cooler weather descends the Club’s
It can be VERY, VERY cold on the Club grounds tracking activities resume. There is an all day
during the winter months, especially if you train tracking workshop on Saturday 27th April
on Thursday nights (or other evenings for Agility (bookings essential) and an ‘Introduction to
and Flyball). It is a good idea to wear a beanie, tracking’ information evening on Wednesday
scarf, several layers of clothes—including a 8th May (see article on pages 29-30). The
windproof jacket—and shoes with very thick information evening is free and bookings are
soles. You may also like to put a coat on your NOT required.
dog. We continue to train throughout the
winter months in the frost and fog—so come Are classes held on Mothers Day and the
prepared! We may cancel classes due to rain. RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk day ? What about
Please check the Club’s public Facebook the June long weekend ?
page for the latest advice.
Classes will be held as normal on Mothers Day
What dog sport trials are coming up ? Can I (12 May) and the RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk
come and watch ? day (19 May). The Sunday classes on 9th June
will NOT be held due to the Club’s Agility trial.
Agility trials will be held on the Club grounds on
Easter Saturday 20th April and Easter Sunday Want to keep in touch with the latest activities
21st April (all day), Tuesday 14th May (evening), at the Club ?
Saturday 18th May (all day) and on the June
long weekend on Saturday 8th June and Information is available from:
Sunday 9th June (all day). These events are run • Our website - www.actcdc.org.au
under Australian National Kennel Council rules • Notice boards (inside and outside the
and enable members to compete for Clubhouse)
nationally recognised titles for their dogs (the • Your Instructors
equivalent of university degrees!). • The Session Manager on the grounds
Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday during
The Club’s X-Factor Flyball team will be hosting Training Classes
a home ground competition on Saturday 25th • The Calendar on page 55
May. • Our public Facebook page. You can see
it without being a registered FB user -
Members are welcome to come and watch www.facebook.com/
these events at the Club – but please leave ACTCompaniondogClub
your dog at home as access to off-lead
exercise areas may be limited on these
occasions and there will be a lot of other dogs
on the grounds.
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 9
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The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page |10WHAT ARE THE MOST POPULAR NAMES AND BREEDS AT THE CLUB?
These word clouds provide a few hints! Data for the 745 new dogs that joined the Club in 2017
and 2018 reveals the following popularity:
NAMES: Ruby (10), Molly (10), Charlie (10), Daisy (9), Bonnie (9), Archie/Archibald/Archer (9),
Max (8), Luna (8), Bailey (8), Toby (7), Millie (6), Leo (6) and George (6).
The word cloud above also includes additional names given to 4 or 5 dogs.
BREEDS AND CROSS-BREEDS: Border Collie (57), Cavalier King Charles Spaniel X Poodle (39),
Labrador Retriever (36), German Shepherd Dog (27), Golden Retriever (24), Kelpie (22),
Labrador Retriever X Poodle (20), Australian Kelpie X (17), Staffordshire Bull Terrier (16),
Australian Cattle Dog (14), German Shorthaired Pointer (14), Australian Cattle Dog X (13),
Golden Retriever X Poodle (13), Border Collie X (12), Staffordshire Bull Terrier X (12),
Toy Poodle (12) and Whippet (12)
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page |11Dogs-As-Therapy Team
By Lesley Pothan
The Canberra Weekly magazine published on 24th January this year featured an article on the
Club’s Dogs-as-Therapy activities recognising the longevity of the program and the community
service provided by members of the Club in Canberra for the past 30 years (reproduced below).
Currently more than 20 dog and handler teams visit aged care residences, hospitals, schools and
one-off events on request.
Since the article we have had a number of requests for our services. We try to assist where we
can. There is nothing better the group likes to do than share the love of their dog with others. A
wet nose, soft fur or a gentle lean goes a long way and always makes the recipient smile.
If you have a gentle dog that loves people perhaps you would like to consider joining the group.
‘Too busy’ you say? Our visits are never longer than an hour and you need only do one visit each
month to bring a little joy to someone else. Think about it!
Contact the Club Office at contact@actcdc.org.au for further information.
SMILE — YOU’RE ON CCTV
The Club’s buildings and grounds are under
constant video camera surveillance
to provide better security and safety for members.
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 122018 Annual Awards
The Club held its Annual Awards presentations on 9 December 2018. These included the
presentation of perpetual trophies, keepsakes for members who have earnt official titles with their
dogs, and certificates of appreciation to members who have made a special contribution to the
Club during the year. The Annual Awards recognised achievements from 1 November 2017 to
31 October 2018. Details of recipients are provided below.
Congratulations to all members for their efforts and contributions during the year.
Companion Dog of the Year
This is the Club’s oldest and most prestigious award,
dating from 1960 – just two years after the Club was
established. The award now recognises outstanding
achievements by handler and dog teams in any
discipline(s) supported by the Club. Outstanding
achievement can include gaining high order titles
within or across sports disciplines. Apart from
achievement, the handler must have also made a
contribution to the life of the Club throughout the
year.
Laraine Frawley and RO Ch Twigworth Jasper
(‘Cam’) UD RAE RRD ORA ADX ADO JDX JDO GDX
SD SPDX
Nine-year-old Cam is perhaps the most exuberant
Golden Retriever at the Club. Laraine’s persistence
in his training has enabled him to achieve at the
highest levels across multiple disciplines. Cam
achieved his UD title at the end of 2017 and he has
gone on to achieve qualifications towards his
Obedience Champion (OC) title in 2018. Cam and Laraine have also trialled consistently in Agility
and achieved Open Agility and Open Jumping titles during the year. Cam is already a Rally
Obedience Champion and continues to trial successfully in that discipline. Laraine is a Life
Member of the Club and an active Agility, Obedience Trialling and Rally Obedience instructor.
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 132018 Annual Awards … continued
Obedience Dog of the Year
This is the Club’s most prestigious award for
Obedience Trialling. The award is presented to
the dog that has excelled in Obedience Trials
during the year, preferably at or above Open
level. In order to be considered for this award
the handler must have made a contribution to
the life of the Club throughout the year.
Anne Walkington and her Labrador Retriever
Ch Riftintime Bohemian Rhapsody (‘Holly’) CDX
RE ORA
the handler must have made a contribution to
the life of the Club throughout the year.
Rhonda Cameron and her Labrador Retriever X
‘Boston’ AFCH (photo above)
Six-year-old adopted Labrador X ‘Boston’ is
Rhonda’s third flyball dog. The sport of Flyball
should have come easily to Boston but this was
not the case - he was just not that keen on
retrieving tennis balls! Rhonda persevered with
Boston’s training for more than two years
knowing there was a Flyball dog in there
somewhere and Boston is now a regular fixture
(and resident clown) in the Club’s X Factor
Flyball team. In 2018 he competed at local and
interstate race meets including representing
the Club at the Australian Flyball Nationals.
Rhonda is an active member of the Flyball Sub-
Committee and represents Flyball’s interests on
the Main Committee. She also played a
Anne and three-year-old Labrador ‘Holly’ prominent role in the organisation of the Club’s
campaigned for their Open Obedience title in 60th anniversary events in 2018.
2018 achieving the required three passes over
a fortnight in June with two first places and one Agility Dog of the Year
third place. Anne has helped steward at the
Club’s trials and provides peer support to other This is the Club’s most prestigious award for
class members. Anne has now set her sights on Agility. The award is presented to the dog that
a Utility Dog (UD) title and is training Holly to has excelled in Agility Trials in the ACT during
compete at this level. the year and is based on a pointscore system.
In order to be considered for the award the
Flyball Dog of the Year handler must have also made a contribution to
the life of the Club throughout the year.
This is the Club’s most prestigious award for
Flyball. The award is presented to the dog that Denise Iglesias and her Australian Shepherd
has excelled in Flyball competition during the Flatout Joey (‘Finn’) ADM ADO JDM JDO SPDM
year. In order to be considered for this award SDM GDX
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 142018 Annual Awards … continued
Denise and her eight-year-old Aussie
Shepherd ‘Finn’ have trained and trialled
successfully for several years and in 2018
earnt 38 qualifications to achieve the Agility
Dog of the Year title.
Denise always ensures Finn is given timely
and smooth directions on course – and they
are a great team to watch even when he
sometimes lets her know that she hasn’t got
it ‘quite right’. Denise continues to contribute
to the Club by instructing classes, serving on
the Agility Sub-committee, and helping to
manage the Club’s trials. She is passionate
about Agility – constantly building her Dianne Walton-Sonda and her Miniature
knowledge through seminars and training with Dachshund ‘Mr Jangles’ DWDF.S (above)
some of the world’s best handlers and sharing
that knowledge with fellow agility members. Mr Jangles, or ‘Mr J’ to his friends, is a four-year-
old Dachshund who commenced his DWD
training a few years ago as a cute little
sausage with a nose very close to the
interesting smells on the ground. Di has worked
tirelessly to get and keep his focus while
learning the dancing moves. Dancing soon
became Mr J’s sport of choice and their skills,
team work and polish have shone over the
past twelve months. Mr J has become a
professional heart-melter with the cutest ear
flips and leg lifts on display. Di and Mr J’s year
culminated with a first place and title in
Freestyle Starters from a competitive field. Both
also contribute to the promotion of DWD in
Canberra through public demonstrations and
community visits.
Tony Turner Award for DWD Heelwork to
Music
This award is presented to the handler and dog
team that has achieved high aggregate scores
for any Heelwork to Music titles and where the
handler has made a contribution to life of the
Club throughout the year.
Holly Rieger and her Saluki Ch Grantulla
Isfandiyar (‘Zephyr’) ET JC HTM.S
Zephyr is a six-year-old Saluki who has returned
DANCES WITH DOGS AWARDS to DWD training in the past year after a brief
dabble some time ago. Holly does very well to
Pavilion Trophy for DWD Freestyle keep Zephyr’s focus as Salukis – like many
sighthounds – can be a challenge to train
This award is presented to the handler and dog (unless it’s lure coursing!). Zephyr is handsome
team that has achieved high aggregate scores and elegant and he and Holly move gracefully
for any Freestyle titles and where the handler across the dance floor. Zephyr and Holly have
has made a contribution to life of the Club performed well at competitions, with qualifying
throughout the year. scores at each event, including a second
place and their title at the last event for the
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 152018 Annual Awards … continued
Goldberg Trophy for Comp Day Pointscore
Winner
This award was not presented in 2018.
Most Improved Dog Trophy
This award is presented to the dog that has
shown significant improvement in training in
any discipline during the year through the
dedication and commitment of its handler. This
award was donated in 1965 and is the Club’s
third oldest trophy.
Suanne Hackett and her Brittany ‘Coco’
year. Both also contribute to the promotion of
DWD in Canberra through public
demonstrations and community visits.
Big Mac DWD Encouragement Award
This award is presented to the handler and dog
team that has shown dedication and
commitment to DWD training and has made
commendable progress in class during the
year.
Natasha Sands and Kelpie X Labrador ‘Pepsi’
AD JD GD
Sixteen-year-old Natasha and six-year-old
‘Pepsi’ joined the DWD group this year and hit Suanne has been extremely devoted to
the dance floor with a lot of skill and plenty of improving her own training skills to better
moves already in their back pocket. They support her very active three-year-old Brittany
immediately became part of the group, ‘Coco’. With great commitment Sue has learnt
participating in both demonstrations and how to read and interpret Coco's behaviour
competitions. Natasha has shown great skills and to respond in ways that help Coco when
and understanding in her training and Pepsi has she finds the environment over-stimulating.
demonstrated how skilfully she learns new
moves with little effort in the training arena. As Suanne's skill levels have grown her
Pepsi does, though, keep Natasha on her toes partnership with Coco has strengthened and
when taking her incredible moves on the road. Coco is excelling in classes. This year Suanne
With their excellent attitude to training and and Coco have participated in Agility and
great team work, Natasha and Pepsi have Rally-O and returned to Behaviour Training
already made a great contribution to the classes to improve Coco’s ability to focus and
group and will be a force to be reckoned with settle in the face of distraction.
in the future.
Handler of the Year Award
See photo page 17.
This award is presented to a member who has
TRAINING AWARDS shown outstanding handling skills in training,
competition and/or trials in any discipline
Cleo Award for Companion Level supported by the Club during the year and
who has brought credit to the Club through
This award was not presented in 2018. their commitment, dedication and conduct.
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 162018 Annual Awards … continued
Natasha Sands with her Kelpie X Labrador
‘Pepsi’ AD JD GD (below)
Sixteen-year-old Natasha has trained hard in
Agility this year with her Kelpie X Labrador
‘Pepsi’, and together they have achieved their
AD, JD and GD titles. When they started in
Agility Pepsi was reactive and lacked focus,
and Natasha has worked very hard to
overcome these challenges. Natasha listens to
advice from her instructors, and tries to
implement the handling techniques. She trains
regularly at home, and her attendance at class
is very consistent. Natasha and Pepsi also
participate in DWD and have been awarded
the DWD Encouragement Award for their
efforts in this discipline. A big thank you to
Natasha’s family for supporting her training
Linda Spinaze with her Border Collie ‘Brunig’ endeavours.
ADM JDM ADO JDO GDX SPD SD (above)
Linda and her seven-year-old adopted working
Border Collie ‘Brunig’ have trialled in Agility
since 2014, routinely earning titles each year
and gaining multiple 1st, 2nd and 3rd placings
along the way in the ‘big dog’ 600 height class.
Linda and Brunig powered through the first six
of the seven qualifications required for their
ADM title in late 2016 and early 2017 (with their
Masters Jumping and both Open titles already
under their belt). The seventh ADM qualification
proved elusive, however, and it took another
14 months to finally achieve that last pass in
October 2018. Although the last pass seemed
like an insurmountable hurdle, Linda and Brunig
gained more than 20 qualifications and places
in other agility, jumping and games classes
during this period – a clear demonstration of
the skill and teamwork that both have TRACKING AWARDS
developed. Linda is renowned for her calm
demeanour on and off the field and she
generously shares her extensive training Tracking Achievement Award
knowledge as an active instructor in the Club’s
Agility and Behaviour Training programs. Linda This award is presented to the handler and dog
also continues to contribute to the team that has achieved success in Tracking
management of the Club, as convenor of the and/or Track & Search trials during the year
Agility Sub-Committee and as a member of the and where the handler has made a
Main Committee. contribution to the life of the Cub throughout
the year.
Junior Handler of the Year Award
Joanne Hagan and German Shorthaired Pointer
This award is presented to a junior handler Ch Fourjays Enter The Dragon (‘Kaleb’) CDX RE
(under 16) who has regularly attended classes TDX ORA ET
in any discipline and has made significant
progress in training their dog during the year. Joanne and her German Shorthaired Pointer
This award was donated in 1961 and is the ‘Kaleb’ attained their Tracking Dog Excellent
Club’s second oldest trophy. (TDX) title in 2018, gaining their Track 4 pass at
the Club’s tracking trial in July and going on to
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 17*Recognised Hydrotherapy provider by Petplan*
Canine hydrotherapy involves the use of swimming and underwater treadmills to help dogs
recover following surgery or injury, and for pets with more long term mobility problems.
Conditions we can treat with hydrotherapy at our facility include:
• Arthritis
• Hip and elbow dysplasia
• Cruciate ligament rupture
• Patella luxation
• Degenerative myelopathy (formerly known as CDRM)
• Spinal injuries including recovery from fractures and IV disc rupture
(commonly known as a slipped disc)
• Spondylosis - spinal arthritis
• Mobility problems related to age
• Obesity control
The benefits of hydrotherapy are:
• Decreased pain perception
• Decreased pain and inflammation
• Feeling of wellbeing due to release of endorphins
• Relaxation of muscle tension and/or muscle spasm
• Reduction of oedema (swelling)
• Increased range of movement
• Non weight bearing - it is easier and more comfortable to move in water so
animals often gain confidence
• Support for weakened or spinal injury dogs
• Increased muscle strength
• Improved muscle patterning and recruitment helping to improve gait patterns
(reduction in lameness)
• Improved cardiovascular fitness
• Potentially earlier return to normal activities
• Improved quality of life
Contact us to see how our qualified Hydrotherapist can work with your Vet
to give your dog a healthier life!
WWW.DOGSWIMCANBERRA.COM.AU
https://www.facebook.com/dogswimcanberra/
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page 182018 Annual Awards … continued
attain their Track 5 and Track 6 passes in the well tracking training and scent training can be
following month. Joanne (above with Kaleb) used to keep an energetic and young dog
has helped facilitate the Club’s mid-week peer happy and calmer during what is normally a
training sessions this year as well as running the very challenging period of development for
ACT tracking Facebook page. most pups and owners.
Tracking Encouragement Award RALLY-O AWARDS
This award is presented to the handler and dog Rally-O Encouragement Award
team that has shown dedication and
commitment to Tracking and/or Track & Search This award is presented to the handler and dog
training and has made commendable progress team that has shown dedication and
during the year. commitment to Rally-O training and has made
commendable progress during the year.
Sophie Dunstone and her German Shorthaired
Pointer ‘Elke’ (above right) Cheyne Fischer and his Kelpie X ‘Millie’
Sophie and her German Shorthaired Pointer Cheyne and
puppy ‘Elke’ started tracking training at the ‘Millie’ began
start of the 2018 season, when Elke was only Rally-O
five months old. They regularly attended peer training at
training sessions, while juggling work and travel the
commitments. Showing her enthusiasm to beginning of
learning this new sport with her puppy, Sophie 2018 when
also reached out for people to help her outside Millie was one
of the weekly peer training sessions and and a half
organised to meet people to help progress her years old.
training. Her dedication to training was They have
rewarded with how well Elke progressed with attended
her training during the season. Sophie and Elke classes
also transitioned to Nosework training during regularly and
the off-season. Sophie has been active on have reaped
social media and has been demonstrated how the benefits
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 192018 Annual Awards … continued
of their dedication to training outside of classes Jo Ballard Award for Community
in their life with Millie. While Cheyne and Millie Companion Dog (CCD)
are yet to enter the trial ring, Millie shows
proficiency at a high level and we hope to see This award is presented to the handler and dog
them in the ring soon. that has achieved the highest aggregate
score qualifying for their Community
Rally-O Achievement Award Companion Dog (CCD) obedience title.
This award is presented to the handler and dog Karen Hobson and her Border Collie Lifesong
team that has excelled in Rally-Obedience Out of The Abyss (‘Abby’) CCD with a total of
trials during the year and where the handler 289 points out of a possible 300 (including two
has made a contribution to the life of the Club first places and one second place).
throughout the year.
Novice (CD) Point Score Trophy
Laraine Frawley and her Golden Retriever RO
Ch Morningmyst Lord Of The Isle (‘Tully’) CDX This award is presented to the handler and dog
RAE ORA AD JD GD SPDX that has achieved the highest aggregate
score qualifying for their Companion Dog (CD)
title. Maximum possible total 600 points.
Jenny O’Connor and her Labrador Retriever
Eraky Kobe (‘Kobe’) CD RA with a total of 559
points out of a possible 600 (including two
second places and one fifth place).
Laraine and Tully had a spectacular year
gaining their Rally Master and Rally Obedience
Champion titles – a wonderful achievement for
a three-year-old Golden Retriever. Tully has
performed consistently at a variety of venues
and has achieved high scores during his
campaign including many first places. Laraine
has instructed classes in Obedience Trialling,
Rally Obedience and Agility throughout the
year.
OBEDIENCE POINT SCORE
AWARDS Above: Jenny and ‘Kobe’
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 202018 Annual Awards … continued
Open (CDX) Point Score Trophy
This award is presented to the handler and dog
that has achieved the highest aggregate
score qualifying for their Open (CDX) title.
Anne Walkington and her Labrador Retriever
Ch Riftintime Bohemian Rhapsody (‘Holly’) CDX
RE ORA with a total of 555 points out of a
possible 600 including two first place and one
third place.
See photo page 14.
Gumboot Trophy for Open (CDX)
Obedience
This award was not presented in 2018.
Utility (UD) Point Score Trophy
This award is presented to the handler and dog
that has achieved the highest aggregate
score qualifying for their Utility (UD) title.
Pippa is now competing successfully in Race
Laraine Frawley and her Golden Retriever RO Meets without distraction. She came of age
Ch Twigworth Jasper (‘Cam’) UD RAE RRD ORA when she competed successfully without any
ADX ADO JDX JDO GDX SD SPDX with a total of errors at the three-day 2018 Australian Flyball
564 points out of a possible 600 including three Championships in September 2018.
first placings.
AGILITY AWARDS
See photo page 13.
The following awards are based on results
Utility Dog Excellent (UDX) Point Score gained in agility and jumping trials sanctioned
Trophy by the Australian National Kennel Council
(ANKC).
This award was not presented in 2018.
Novice Agility Dog of the Year
FLYBALL AWARDS This award is presented to the dog that has
achieved the highest placings to gain its Agility
Morris Encouragement Award Dog (AD) and Jumping Dog (JD) titles.
This award is presented to the handler and dog Maureen Lewis and her Border Collie Windeyer
team that has shown dedication and Pip (‘Pip’) AD JD SD SPD
commitment to Flyball training and has made
commendable progress during the year. Agility Clear Round Award
Vanessa March and her Border Collie ‘Pippa’ This award is presented to the handler and
CCD RA FDCH (above right) dog team that has achieved a high level of
consistency in local trials during the year. It is
Vanessa and her three-year-old Border Collie based on the number of qualifications gained
‘Pippa’ have worked closely together over the at trials regardless of placings.
last two years across several disciplines. Pippa’s
natural herding instincts and her young age Lara Sedgmen and Hungarian Vizsla Ch
proved a significant issue to her becoming a Graebrook Dublin Rogue (‘Dublin’) RN ORA
successful X-Factor Flyball squad member. ADM ADO JDM JDO GDM SDX SPDX with 38
Under Vanessa’s patience and guidance,
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 212018 Annual Awards … continued
new instructors:
• Sue Howie ( Obedience Trialling and Rally
Obedience)
• Catriona Anderson (Behaviour Training)
• Jill Bradfield (Behaviour Training)
• Beth Forbes (Behaviour Training)
• Sharon Haines (Behaviour Training)
• Leslie Roberts (Behaviour Training)
• Jane Rylands (Behaviour Training)
• Jess Strain (Behaviour Training)
• Jackie Trotter (Behaviour Training)
INSTRUCTOR LONG SERVICE
AWARDS
In 2018 several instructors reached significant
milestones in their association with the Club. A
big thank you to:
• Amanda Delaney (20 years)
• Joyce Thompson (29 years)
• Sue Keal (30 years)
qualifications. Lara and Dublin also won this Two long-serving instructors were also made
award in 2016 and 2017. Honorary Instructors in recognition of their
service to the Club:
NEW INSTRUCTORS • Bruce Chapman – who has instructed for
Certificates are awarded to instructors who 18 years
have qualified to teach any discipline during • Fay Peters – who has instructed for 23
the year. In 2018 we welcomed the following years
New instructors: (Back) Leslie, Jill, Sharon, Catriona (Front) Jess, Jackie, Jane
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 222018 Annual Awards … continued
Left: Life Member and recently retired instructor Joyce
Thompson with President Lesley Pothan
Below left: Honorary Instructor Bruce Chapman
CANINE CITIZENSHIP AWARD
2018 marked the 30th anniversary of the Club’s
Dogs-as-Therapy activities – a program started by
the late Margaret McNicol and sustained by Joyce
Thompson. To coincide with the anniversary the
Club recognised the following long service
milestones attained by Dogs-as-Therapy members:
• Terry Keough (5 years)
• Beryl Sipes (5 years)
• Debbie Perrin (9 years)
• Pam Peppercorn (17 years)
• Karen Haines (18 years)
• Mike Lynch (19 years)
• Kath McQuarrie (23 years)
Canine Citizenship Awards are presented to
members who regularly participate in Dogs-as-
Therapy activities. In 2018 three new teams joined
the Club’s Dogs-as-Therapy activities:
• Morag Cotsell & Bess (Kelpie X)
• Jo Halliday & Ella (Golden Retriever)
• Christine Rees & Phoebe (Miniature
Schnauzer)
Certificates of Appreciation were also presented to
the following Club members for their continuing
support of Dogs-as-Therapy in 2018:
• Sandra Beaton & Peggie (West Highland
Terrier)
• Myrian Bulbeck & Matilda (Labrador X
Poodle)
• Betty Edwards & Bonnie (Golden Retriever)
• Narelle Heywood & Lily (Rhodesian
Ridgeback X)
• Megan Hinchley & Holly (Miniature
Schnauzer)
• Sharon Kelly & Rosie (Schnauzer X Poodle)
• Jeff Kingwell & Bear (Golden Retriever)
• Lesley Pothan & Molly (Shih Tzu)
• Juliet Ward & Freda (Rhodesian Ridgeback)
CERTIFICATES OF APPRECIATION
Each year we present certificates to a small
number of members and supporters for their
special contribution to the Club during the year. In
2018 certificates were presented to:
• Lesley Pothan for 10 years of continuous
service on the Club’s Main Committee –
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 232018 Annual Awards … continued
Above: Dogs-as-Therapy members (L-R) Beryl, Pam, Sharon, Terri and Mike
originally as Treasurer and currently as President
• Katrina Morton for 13 years of continuous service on the
Club’s Main Committee as shop manager
• Justin and Amelia Allen and Rachael Eggins and
Damon Muller for their dedication and commitment to
the Club’s Flyball activities over many years
• Sherlyn Coo, Ilka Kollodziej, Karen Hobson, Penny
Pardoe-Matthews, Dianne Gallasch, Georgia Morris,
Heather McGinness, Chris Rees, Niki Swan, Brandon
Wood, Lucy Langshaw, Wendy Hathaway and Michael
Morton for their support of Agility trialling activities in
2018
• Jerry Lee for his support of Flyball activities and working
bees during 2018
• Connor Bailey for his service to the Club as Shop
Assistant from March 2016 – December 2018
• Coles Chisolm and Woolworths Erindale for support of
the Club’s BBQ fundraiser
Above: Shop Manager Katrina Morton
• Best Friends Fyshwick and Powells Stockfeeds for
support of the Club’s Xmas raffle
AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL KENNEL COUNCIL TITLES
This year we recognise handlers who earnt 111 titles with 47 dogs in the following disciplines:
• DWD – 2
• Flyball – 15
• Obedience Trialling – 13
• Rally-O – 20
• Agility – 58
• Tracking – 3
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 242018 Annual Awards … continued
This year we had one outstanding trialling • Jenny O’Connor’s Labrador Retriever
achievement – with Laraine Frawley and Kobe CD RA
Twigworth Jasper (‘Cam’) achieving their • Jenny O’Connor’s Golden Retriever
Australian Rally Obedience Champion title. Chillee CCD RN RA RE
• Cath Perry’s Golden Retriever Keetah
Other titles attained this year: ADX JDX GDX
• Holly Rieger’s Saluki Zephyr HTM.S
• Tom Anderson’s Border Collie Ace FD FDX • Natasha Sands’ Labrador X Kelpie Pepsi
• Justin Allen’s Border Collie Garth AFCH AD JD GD
• Judith Barlow’s Brittany Tae AD JD SD • Lara Sedgmen’s Hungarian Vassal Dublin
SPDX GDM
• Jake Blight’s Border Collie Sonic ADM • Therese Smith’s Australian Kelpie Hector
JDM SPDX SD SPD
• Jill Campain’s Toy Poodle Mia ADM ADO • Dianne Walton-Sonda’s Miniature
JDM JDO Dachshund Mr Jangles DWDF.S
• Julie Cutts’ German Shepherd Elliott TD • Linda Spinaze’s Border Collie Brunig ADM
• Cliff Day’s Border Collie Bailey FD FDX • Denise Stirzaker’s Poodle X Pixie ADX JDX
• Pauline Dikmans’ Border Collie Ky AFCH SD SPDX
• Vikki Evans’ Australia Kelpie Quiz JDO SPD • Cathy Vaughan’s Border Collie Austin FD
• Nikki Fallon’s Cocker Spaniel Mia CCD RN FDX FDCH
AD JD GD SPD FD FDX FDCH • Anne Walkington’s Labrador Retriever
• Laraine Frawley’s Golden Retriever Cam Holly CDX ORA
UD ADO JDO • Airlie White’s Border Collie Wicca ADO
• Laraine Frawley’s Golden Retriever Tully SD
RM RO.CH AD JD GD SPDX • Geoff Woodman’s Golden Retriever
• Dianne Gallasch’s Staffordshire Terrier X Bronte RE
Tank RN • Geoff Woodman’s Golden Retriever
• John Gryniewicz’s German Shepherd Hamish JDO
Woof TD • Geoff Woodman’s Golden Retriever Kirsty
• Joanne Hagan’s German Shorthaired AD JDX SPD
Pointer Kaleb TDX ORA
• Joanne Hagan’s German Shorthaired
Pointer Billie CCD
• Wendy Hathaway’s Border Collie X Wilson
ADX SPD
• Wendy Hathaway’s Chesapeake Bay
Retriever Izzy RA
• Jane Heseltine’s Miniature Dachshund
Archibald AD JD
• Simone Hey’s Golden Retriever Floki CCD
CD RN RA
• Naarilla Hirsch’s Border Collie Arcus JDX
• Karen Hobson’s Border Collie Abby CCD
• Karen Hobson’s Labrador Retriever Jem
CD AD JD GD
• Sue Howie’s Australian Kelpie Rocket RN
RA RE
• Pamela Hunt’s Welsh Corgi Izy SD
• Carmen Kong’s Chinese Crested Dog Ben Right: Claire and
CCD AD JDX Leon Weekes’
• Maureen Lewis’ Border Collie Pip AD SD Echo in a festive
mood!
SPD
• Patricia Looker’s Cocker Spaniel Calli RN
• Kay Malone’s Border Collie Jamie CDX
RAE RM Photos by Rachel McKeever except:
• Vanessa March’s Border Collie Pippa • Handler of the Year (page 17) - Linda
Spinaze
CCD RN RA FD FDX FDCH
• Joyce Thompson (page 23) and Katrina
• Heather McGinness’ Belgian Shepherd
Morton (page 24) - Anne Robertson
Archer SD
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 25IMPORTANT CHANGES TO USE OF OFF-LEAD EXERCISE AREAS
Club members enjoy coming to the grounds to safely exercise
their dogs in the designated off-lead paddocks. There are rules
relating to the use of these areas which MUST be followed by
everyone.
Several changes have been made to the use of the
grounds due to recent incidents. These changes are
designed to keep all members and their dogs safe.
When the Club is holding training classes on Wednesday and
Sunday mornings and Thursday evenings there are many,
many dogs on the grounds. These dogs include young dogs
learning how to behave and handlers with varying levels of
experience. For these reasons members who are NOT
attending training classes on the same day must NOT come to
the Club to use the paddocks during the following times:
Wednesdays 9.30am—12.45pm, Thursdays 6.15pm—9.30pm
and Sundays 9.00am—12.15pm.
When using any of the off-lead paddocks members and their dogs should stay well away from any
fences to adjoining paddocks to reduce the likelihood of fence-running. This activity might look like
fun but it can lead to over-arousal and anti-social behaviour including barrier aggression between
dogs.
Many dogs are possessive of food, balls and other toys. Using these items in an off-lead area may
provoke over-arousal or resource-guarding aggression. Do NOT throw balls and toys and use food
with discretion if you are sharing an off-lead area with other members.
Always consider how your behaviour and your dog’s behaviour is affecting other users
on the grounds.
An updated copy of the Club’s brochure ‘Using the club grounds’ is available from the Club Office.
You MUST follow the advice in the brochure.
These fabulous
local businesses provided
prizes for our
Christmas 2018 raffle
Thank you!
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 26Hatches and matches
Congratulation to instructor Beth Forbes,
husband Ben and big brother Aidan on the
safe arrival of baby ‘Hugh’ in early February
… and to Shiba Inu ‘Lucy’ on the arrival
of her litter in late February
… and to members Betsy Foskett and Nick Larsen on
their recent marriage — with Labrador Retriever
‘Jace’ displaying his behavioural skills as ‘Dog Of
Honour’ on the big day!
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 27Companionship is the best prevention
Fact Sheet from the National Canine Research Council (18 May 2015)
Dogs have come into our homes to stay. More than 99% of America’s dog owners consider
their dogs either family members or companions. [1] More than 99% of the roughly 110 million
people who live with dogs enjoy the benefits of this companionship [2] without ever having
serious conflicts with their dogs. Even though more and more people have been spending
more and more time enjoying their dogs’ companionship over the last four decades, the trend
in the number of dog bite complaints has declined dramatically [3].
You are your dog’s first line of defence. Dogs bite when they feel they need to defend
themselves. We can protect our dogs from situations that make them uncomfortable and learn
how they may let us know they‘re upset.
We can do even better by learning to see the dog’s point of view by:
• Taking care of his physical health and comfort.
• Being our dog’s protector.
• Recognizing that dogs are not static creatures and their needs and preferences will
evolve. And even dogs have bad days. Know who your dog is TODAY and meet his
needs in this moment.
• Insulating him from things that scare him.
• Socializing puppies so they won’t be fearful of things they are commonly exposed to.
• Seeking appropriate professional help when an adult dog’s fears are compromising his
quality of life or the safety of the people around him.
Most important, the dog who is fully integrated into the life of his human family is much less likely
to be frightened by human behaviour. Companionship is truly the best prevention.
Notes:
[1] American Veterinary Medical Association. U.S. Pet Ownership and Demographics Sourcebook (p. 13).
Schaumburg, IL: AVMA, 2012
[2] Pets Are Wonderful Support. (2007). The Health Benefits of Companion Animals
[3] National Canine Research Council, (2013). Reported Bites Decreasing
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 28Tracking
Is it for you and your dog?
By Jake Blight
Above: Joanne Hagan and German Shorthaired Pointer ‘Kaleb’ tracking at Mount Fairy NSW in July 2018
(Photo: Lara Sedgmen)
What is it? time so it does not matter if your dog is not
great with other dogs.
Tracking is where dogs follow the scents left
behind when a person walks across grass and To teach your dog to follow a particular track
other surfaces. Police and search and rescue you need to have a good understanding of
dogs are trained to track in order to locate what motivates your dog and be willing to put
suspects and lost people. Any dog can track the time in to teach your dog the game. Once
and pet dogs can be taught to track for fun a dog knows how to track what you want it to
and as a dog sport. track it is great fun and you can set up all sorts
of challenges to develop their skills and your
Most dogs love tracking and they are naturally handling. There are also competitions where
good at it. Tiny particles of scent are left your dog can earn tracking titles. Tracking can
behind when a person walks by and even hours also enhance your dog’s ability to maintain its
later there is enough scent for a dog to be able concentration and so can help with obedience
to identify who was there and which way they and agility training.
went. It is amazing to see dogs using their
superior sense of smell to do something that In Australia tracking is a winter sport (because
humans cannot do. It is also a great way to of snakes). You need to be willing to put in
keep your dog’s mind busy and to build your quite a bit of work in the first few weeks if you
bond with your dog.
What’s involved?
Want to know more?
When training a dog to track you are not
training them how to smell: they already know Introduction to tracking seminar
that. You are motivating them to follow a
particular scent and ignore all others in order to 7.00pm Wednesday 8 May
get a reward. Dogs of any age and any breed
CDC clubhouse
can track. It is not a race and you and your
dog can go as slow as you need to.
No bookings
And handlers inrequired
boxes too …. Huh?
Dogs are always on lead and work one at a
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 29Tracking … continued
out on cold winter mornings a couple of
times a week to train as well as doing some
practice on the weekends. But once they
know the game of tracking most dogs will
progress quite quickly and will remember it
for years. Most training can be done on your
own at any of the many green spaces
throughout Canberra and you don’t need
much equipment. However it is a good idea
to get together with others who are tracking
their dogs regularly to give each other feed-
back and to enable your dog to track a vari-
ety of people. The Club schedules peer
training sessions during the cooler months to
facilitate members training together.
Above: All dogs – large and small – can track
(Photo: Lara Sedgmen)
Want to know more?
If you would like to learn more about tracking there will be a free Introduction to Tracking talk at
7.00pm on Wednesday 8 May 2019 at the CDC Clubhouse. No need to pre-book, just turn up on
the night. You can also join the tracking email group to receive updates and share ideas. Search
for ‘ACT Region Tracking Dogs’ on Google Groups to sign up or email the CDC office on con-
tact@actcdc.org.au and ask for your email address to be passed on to the tracking coordinator if
you have trouble subscribing.
www.batemansbayaccommodation.com.au/accommodation/1355
OR contact Fiona on 0408 292 637 for more details
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 30Oh Behave !
By Jess McNamara-Rice
How does your dog cope with failure?
Jess McNamara-Rice is a Delta Society qualified dog trainer, CDC Agility instructor, and owner
and operator of A.B.C.D.O.G Dog Training. She previously worked for several years as an RSPCA
behavioural trainer. She is a qualified Greenhounds Assessor and holds a Diploma in Advanced
Animal Behaviour. In this occasional series, Jess provides advice on common behavioural issues
using positive reinforcement.
ran off. I had majorly confused him: he was not
enjoying the training process and he told me
that by removing himself. After the first attempt
I should have made the task easier so that he
succeeded. It would be easy to look at his
behaviour at that moment and label him
‘distracted’ for running off or say he was ‘back
chatting’. However, reflecting on my behaviour
the moment before I lost him I realise I had
asked him to do something that was too
difficult.
If you are continually told that your attempts at
a task are wrong, frustration and confusion may
quickly take over. What does this look like for
your dog? My dog is very vocal and barking is
his way of expressing many different emotions.
Apart from barking, hints that your dog may be
getting confused or frustrated may include:
• Physically creating space between you
and them, even just a step backwards
• Displacement behaviours such as
yawning, sniffing or scratching
Above: Hungarian Vizsla ‘Risk’ • Whining
(Photo: Jess McNamara-Rice) • A sudden disconnect from you or the task
• Putting their mouth on you or something
In an ideal training environment, we would set near by
up situations where our dogs would not make • Resisting physically moving (ie pulling
mistakes. However unfortunately quite regularly backwards in their collar)
in training sessions we ask our dogs to do things
that are too difficult or they make a mistake When a dog continually fails, they may start to
and might miss out on a reward. be more cautious about trying. This is where
they may quickly be labelled as ‘unmotivated’.
Do you know how many times your dog can If I continued to push my Vizsla to try the weave
perform a task incorrectly before the pressure is poles (without setting him up to succeed) he
too much for it? Do you know how your dog may eventually guess the behaviour I wanted.
shows confusion or frustration? Does your dog However, he would perform the behaviour with
get to a point where it starts to shut down or a lot less drive than if I had broken it down into
disengage? increments that were easy for him. The more he
is rewarded for a behaviour the more he wants
Recently in agility training I experienced this to perform it, the more he fails the more likely
with my Vizsla. I asked him to do a jump and he is to give up!
enter into the weave poles at an angle. I have
not practiced this nearly enough at home let To prevent this occurring during a training
alone in a difficult environment. The first time he session you really need to look for signs that
missed the entry, the second time he popped your dog is getting frustrated. If he is, don’t go
out midway through the poles. When I lined him for that “we’ll try one more time” rather stop,
up to go again he started barking at me then ask him to do something simple that he can be
The Good Companion | March 2019| Vol 31| No 1 Page | 31You can also read
