Advice from an expert...

Kathy Lofthouse: "As an avid agility person training my 12th potential USDAA Agility Dog (tm) many people have been asking what I have taught my now 8-month-old English Shepherd puppy, Watson. The answer is below:

Follow up to the above, from Kathy: "I suppose I could make a list, but the answer is that I have taught him relatively nothing agility-wise.... lol. My main focus has been on keeping him growing at his own pace both mentally and physically while learning about him and how he thinks, what he likes best, what concerns him, etc. I have allowed him to develop his relationship with the world as well as my other dogs. Each one of them has and will be a great role model for him when he begins to learn agility obstacles. At the same time I have been nurturing his natural tendencies and instincts so that he and I will have common ground on which to not only build the foundation of our working relationship, but to withstand any setbacks which may occur. As you may be able to tell I'm liking what he's showing me... He is rapidly heading towards becoming a great dog."

Additional Follow-Up: "I'm going to add the important things I've taught Watson when I think of them... oh, yes, he plays with the hose and he likes a paddling pool. I know some competitors do not want their dogs to find the hose appealing, however, I consider it to be a major resource as you can get the dog engaged with you and the hose in full on drive without their over-heating, it is good exercise, a great way to cool off and just plain fun."