Softball Fielding Tips – How to become a Better Fielder
Most spectators of softball games don’t realize the importance of the role of fielders in the game. Well, not at least they are thrown into the same situation and see what it really takes to become a good softball fielder.
For one, fielders should always be alert for flyballs because practically no one else can help them catch the ball but themselves.
And it doesn’t stop there. They still have to throw the ball to the nearest baseman to get a player tagged or to secure a base.
But if you’re a fielder yourself, I’m completely sure that you already understand the importance of your position. But there’s still room for improvement. That’s why here are some softball fielding tips for you and for everyone who wants to gain a greater appreciation for what’s needed to play this all important position.
Let’s begin:
1. You must refine your throwing mechanics and accuracy. If there’s one important skill that any fielder should have, that would be the ability to throw the ball correctly and into the right direction.
That’s why it’s important for you to always practice the correct throwing mechanics and work on your throwing accuracy.
The part about accuracy is obvious enough, but what about the proper throwing mechanics? The proper throwing mechanics help you throw the ball harder and farther with less effort. Also, you would minimize the wear and tear on the muscles involved at throwing and keep yourself from getting injured.
2. Be familiar with the position you’re playing. To be an effective fielder, you must know your job inside and out. You should know where to position yourself when the ball’s coming your way. But that’s not all. You should also know how to position yourself in particular game situations. Your hands must be in the correct position to catch the ball better, for example.
3. Pick the right glove and take care of it. For most players, knowing how to execute a drill is enough for them. But what they don’t know is the role that their equipment also plays in helping them play the game better.
For fielders, there’s no other equipment more important than their glove. If you’re a fielder, you should choose a glove that fits you just fine. A good-fitting glove is one that doesn’t slip when you use it, is small enough to help you catch the ball better, and is light enough to prevent limiting your performance, to name a few.
You also must take good care of your glove by making sure it maintains its original shape. You can do that by placing a ball in it and wrapping a shoelace around it when you’re not using it.
So to sum things up, you must refine your throwing mechanics and accuracy, familiarize yourself with your position, and pick the right glove and take care of it. These things will help you to become a better fielder.
But there are other useful softball fielding tips out there. To read all of them and other softball tips, check out my website at www.softballperformance.com.
I’ll see you there!
About the Author
Marc Dagenais, MHK, CSCS, is a Softball Peak Performance Coach that helps softball players and teams hit with more power, run faster, throw harder, become mentally tougher and be more dominant on the softball field.
The commonest method for breeding dogs is conformation. This ensures pups conform to the agreed standard of a certain registering body. Dogs that are registered with the AKC should meet the agreed standards and display no faults. Dogs produced as a result of conformation usually compete in shows to ascertain which breed is best. They also compete to determine the best dog without their own group.
When dogs are bred for conformation the breeder needs to take several factors into account; and these include things like physical characteristics, size, gait, bite, and coloring. Breeders in this category need to be particularly careful when it comes to choosing a specific breed. They must adhere to a strict breeding program, and the dogs involved must be excellent examples of their breed. Specimens displaying certain faults are not permitted to be used, and they tend to be spayed or neutered before being sent to dog homes.
Some dogs may be bred for performance, and will often take part in events such as flyball. Dogs selected for breeding often display fine athletic abilities. Structure and physical appearance are not so important in dogs bred for best performance. Dogs from different breeds are allowed to mate if they are agile and athletic. In that situation the breeders can only hope the pups will display the same qualities as their parents. One very good example is the breeding of a Jack Russell with a Border Collie. This produces a pup which in the sports community is known as a BorderJack.
You should always take your responsibilities as a breeder very seriously; and the same rule applies whether you are breeding for performance or conformation. This rule also applies to many other tasks and business dealings; you won’t get very far if you don’t behave responsibly.
As a breeder it is vitally important that you choose a dog which is the best in its breed as well as being free from faults or other genetic problems. This can only be done after an expensive evaluation period which involves a lot of tests and examinations. You must be willing to invest a lot of time and money into your dog breeding venture irrespective of whether it’s for business or personal reasons. You need to provide a good home for your male and female dogs before you start the breeding program.
You will need to pay close attention during the mating process because intervention is sometimes necessary. You should always behave in an ethical manner, especially when you consider that animal rights activists are often against breeding. Develop a good breeding program, and make sure you stick to it. Create a healthy environment for your dogs to live in, as well as for any pups they produce.
Do your research on the subject of conformation breeding, and find out which breeds of dog are suitable for the program. You should also do extensive research before you start performance breeding. Either way, extensive research will help to ensure good results. You should seek as much expert help as possible in order to avoid future problems. Check the AKC’s standards, as well as other organizations, and make sure you comply with them. Don’t hesitate to ask the experts for help and advice, especially if you're a beginner.
Dog breeding needs a high level of commitment. The responsibilities are enormous, and can be difficult to cope with. Only consider dog breeding as a career if it is your passion.
All dogs have to be walked daily so why not make this part of your exercise routine? You can plan a route that could take an hour and try and include as many hills as possible. If your are planning this in the winter months you will have to make sure that you and your dog can be seen which means a hi-vis vest for you or a hi-vis dog coat for your dog. You can also buy hi-vis dog collars and dog leads which will make your dog see from any passer by. You can get these pet supplies from any online pet supplier such as Swell Pets, Swell Pets.co.uk
2. Running
If you want to get fit quick but can't afford the gym why not going running with your dog? This will again keep you and your dog fit and healthy and give you quality bonding time together.
3. Obedience training
People think of obedience training as very formal and dare we say boring. This is far from the case. Basic obedience training will help you to teach the dog to sit, stand, down and of course the main one, come back when called when the dog's off its lead. Joining a dog club to do obedience will keep your dog focused, keen on you, keen to learn and mix with other dogs there to keep you dog happy and balanced.
4. Agility training
As with any other discipline, agility will give you good quality time with your dog and is great for exercise for both of you. Doing agility is great fun. There are many obstacles to learn such as the A-frame, dog walk and tunnels. This will take a lot to train but well worth it in the end. One thing to remember when training sports such as agility is your dog will need to be fed before training to give them the energy but not to be fed just before training. It is recommended that you feed the dog food at least two hours before exercise.
5. Flyball
Flyball again is another sport you can do with your dog. Whereas with agility you compete on your own, Flyball is a team sport and it is great fun. There are many great training clubs around the country that can offer these events. Why not have a look and join up today.
About the Author
Karren Newton is a pet advisor for Swell Pets. Swell Pets is a leading online dog products retailer who stock a wide range of supplies such as dog harnessesand puppy sets.
Does anyone know how to do this or websites that tell you what to get and/or teach you how to make it yourself
Also, any good flyball websites please?
google gives so many when you search so thought i'd ask for the best ones from you guys who probably know
THANK YOU
These two sites are pretty good for finding plans to build equipment: http://www.dogagilityhome.com/servlet/sql.linkListInq?cat=Plans http://www.caninecrib.com/dog/training/agility-course.asp
Also, check with agility clubs and trainers in your area. I know in my area, some of the agility clubs/trainers have equipment building workshops where you learn how to make certain pieces of equipment (the price of the class includes all the materials as well). At the end of the workshop, you have a piece of agility equipment to take home.
Here is a link that will help you find a trainer or agility club: http://www.cleanrun.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=clubs.search
If you are comfortable with carpentry, or have a friend or relative that is, you can have them make some of the equipment as well. Most good carpenters don't even need "plans" to make the simple structures of agility equipment (A-frame, dog walk).
Depending on how big your dog is, you can improvise on things as well. For example, I bought a kid's play tunnel for a fraction of the price an "agility" tunnel would cost ( http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5481440 ). Keep your eyes peeled and be creative!
Here are some sites to buy equipment if there's pieces you don't want to make (note: equipment can be expensive): http://www.cleanrun.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_ID=335 http://www.affordableagility.com/ http://www.agilityforless.com/
If you are a dog owner, chances are you might be aware how frustrating it is to control your dog’s behavior. Some dogs get too aggressive to the point that they become disturbing and irritating to your family and your neighborhood, while others bark excessively for some weird reasons. Many dog owners find themselves clueless and unsure as to what must be done to solve this behavior.
Here are a few tips to help you solve your bestfriend’s nuisance barking:
The primary thing you need to check is if you’re giving your k9 all the things and necessities he needs. Barking is a natural behavior among dogs and they usually bark to communicate something with you. If their needs are not being met, the barking might be a cry or signal that he longs for your care and assistance. Always ensure that you give them the right amount of food and water everyday. You also have to clean after your dog.
Dogs could be barking because of irritation. Flea or tick infestations and skin allergies can cause your dog to make excessive noise. Taking your dog to a veterinarian can help you determine whether or not he is healthy and free from any canine diseases.
If your beloved pet barks a great deal, you might observe that they are either bored or energetic. Don’t let your dog be confined inside your house, instead, take him outside where he can play and interact with other dogs as often as you can. A dog that is properly trained to socialize with people and other animals will not bark excessively. Training your dog is a great way to improve his physical and mental stimulation. Dogs naturally enjoy the outdoor and like to experience new things. The barking problem may be solved when the dog is taken on regular walks.
By and large, dogs bark for they beg for a little attention. So don’t be rude. Never yell, hit or scold your dog when they are barking. These kinds of reaction can aggravate your k9’s anxiety. If your dog barks because he is stressed or lonely then your yelling is just going to confuse and hurt him.
Along with these behavior modification methods, you may also try using some gadgets that are designed to address the barking. You can buy bark control collar and other training collar equipment that will quickly train your canine to stop his nuisance barking.
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[simpleaffiliate source="chitika" results="0"][/simpleaffiliate] DIY Dog Agility equipment?
i want to make my own dog agility training equipment so i can make it custom and a its a fun weekend fun project :) were can i find i site were i can make these at home? dog walk, collapsed tunnel, A-Frame, Tire Jump, AND I NEED A site were i can train my dog to use this equipment
First, the best resource out there for making your own agility equipment is "Do it yourself agility equipment" by Jim Hutchins. I have that book and it's great. Blueprints, several options (like a aluminum vs. plywood vs. composite A-frame). He covers all agility equipment except for a couple of the UKC obstacles.
Second, get some PVC and a PVC cutter. With that you can make all of your jumps, most of a pause table, the base for a teeter, frames for a tire, frames to hold the chute.
Third, in terms of actually how to use the equipment, my first and best advice is to take an agility class. Here's why: without a good instructor you're likely to learn a lot of bad habits. Habits which turn dogs off to particular equipment (like the teeter or A-frame or dog walk or chute or even the tunnel). Besides, learning how to use the equipment is the easy part. And for most dogs, doing the obstacles isn't really that fun--it's the combination of doing a full course and taking your instructions at speed. The real test to agility isn't doing obstacles it's working as a team. And just doing obstacles won't give that for you.
There really aren't any free websites that will teach you how to do agility. Steve Schwarz' website (agilitynerd) is the single best resource out there for learning agility but it assumes at least a basic knowledge. Otherwise, he talks about the merits of a front-cross vs. a rear cross vs. a blind cross or pushing the line as a particular handling manuever and a novice would be "huh?!?" Helix Fairweather has a cyber agility course but you have to pay money to sign up for it. The two best intro agility books I can think of are by Laurie Leach and Margaret Bonham (available through Borders, Am.azon)
Gun Dog Training Equipment
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[simpleaffiliate source="chitika" results="0"][/simpleaffiliate] If I throw a ball at a wall does the ball stop (however briefly ) before changing direction to return to me?
If Yes, did the fly crashing into the front of the oncoming train stop the train as it reversed direction. Did the train stop ? if not how did the fly ? Surely if the fly stops the train does. LOL
The answer is essentially the same in both cases.
You cannot, in this context, usefully talk about the velocities of the fly, the ball or the train, because on impact there is always deformation (look at a fly that has been squashed by a train!). Neither the fly nor the train are a single object; we should think instead about the velocities of their component particles.
Each particle of the ball or fly, on impact, eventually suffers an acceleration which reverses its motion. Particles of the train suffer an equal but opposite acceleration. When a particle of fly is actually in contact with a particle of train, the two have the same velocity - but for an infinitesimal time (1/infinity seconds, zero in round figures).
Other particles of fly collide with the one that had the first impact, and the shock wave (transient compression) propagated through the fly's body will be what causes them to reverse. The particles in each collision (a pair of particles moving in opposite directions) will momentarily share a velocity.
The resultant, of course, since the train has many more particles, is that the train continues and the fly reverses. Except for the elasticity which causes the ball to regain shape after being deformed, the same thing happens with a bouncing ball.
Jessica Mendoza Softball Training - CATCH: Flyball : Softball.com
All dog breeds (http://www.dog-breed-facts.com/index.html) were developed for a purpose. Some breeds were developed to herd sheep, some to hunt game, and some to pull sleds. Dogs, like humans, enjoy having a purpose in life. Dogs like to lead a structured life and be able to associate with their owners in activities and be given the opportunity to please their owner. The following is a short list of fun activities that you may want to consider for your dog.
Dog Agility is a sport in which a handler must control and direct his dog around an obstacle course within a set period of time. Dogs must be controlled off-leash using only voice and body language commands. The handler runs beside the dog and directs the dog through the obstacle course with precision and speed â€" trying to accumulate the minimum number of faults (both missed obstacles and time faults). Obstacles include: A-frames, elevated dog walks, teeter-totters, tunnels, jumps (such as hurdles and tires), weave poles (like a slalom), pause tables (where the dog must lie down for a fixed time), and other obstacles. In order to be fair, there are usually classes of competition to group dogs of similar size and experience. Therefore there will be several winners at a competition. Dogs and handlers need to be very well trained and seem to enjoy this sport immensely. There are a number of organizations involved in agility performance around the world who sanction clubs to allow them to host agility competitions. In the US, some of these organizations include: the American Kennel Club (AKC), the United Kennel Club (UKC), the United States Dog Agility Association, and the North American Dog Agility Council. Elsewhere in the world: the Kennel Club (in the UK), the Agility Association of Canada and the FCI (World Canine Organization) are all involved.
Obedience is a skill that ranges from mastering everyday commands that all dogs should know to competitive exercises that require significant training and aptitude to excel. You may start out teaching your puppy and young dog the basic obedience commands and find that you and your dog have an aptitude for obedience skills that you would like to take to a higher level. In competitive obedience the dog and handler team must perform prescribed activities off leash and in a carefully defined way. If the dog has the aptitude and training it will gain skills to allow it to advance through the ranks from Novice to Open (intermediate) to Utility (advanced) competitions. At each level the requirements become more difficult and the number of exercises to be performed get longer. Exercises are all done off leash using voice and body language commands and include such activities as: having the dog stay while you walk away; follow the handler in the heel position through complex patterns; come on command; sit and lie down for fixed periods of time while the handler is out of the dog’s sight; retrieve items over a high jump; and find a scented object amongst a group of identical non-scented objects. Dogs can earn obedience titles in obedience championships. Purebred dogs can compete in obedience trials sanctioned by the AKC, while the UKC recognizes other purebred dog competitions. As well, there are mixed breed competitions sanctioned by the Mixed Breed Dog Club of America and other organizations. In Canada, the Canadian Kennel Club sanctions obedience trials and awards titles.
Lure coursing is a sport for sighthounds that involves chasing a manually or mechanically operated artificial lure across a field in a “coursing†pattern. The competition is usually restricted to pure-bred sighthounds including: Afghan Hounds, Basenjis, Borzois, Greyhounds, Ibizan Hounds, Irish Wolfhounds, Italian Greyhounds, Pharaoh Hounds, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Salukis, Scottish Deerhounds, and Whippets. The operator keeps the lure or “prey†just in front of the chasing sighthounds until they have completed the course. The course must have a minimum number of turns and is usually 600 to 1000 yards long. The hounds love to play this sport and puppies can be introduced to the sport through lure coursing practice sessions. Competitions usually consist of two runs for each dog breed for dogs that have been pre-certified or qualified. In the US, the American Sighthound Field Association or the AKC can “certify†that dogs have been trained and are eligible to enter their sanctioned competitions. In Canada, the Canadian Kennel Club sanctions lure coursing but excludes the Italian Greyhound because they consider it a toy dog.
Tracking can be learned by all dog breeds (http://www.dog-breed-facts.com/index.html) because all dogs use their noses to identify things and explore the world. Training can be started as early as 10 to 12 weeks of age as all puppies love to use their noses to sniff out a trail. As with all training, positive rewards (treats, praise etc,) and re-enforcement work best. The AKC sanctions tracking tests and events in the US. This vigorous non-competitive outdoor sport allows dogs to demonstrate their ability to recognize and follow human scents. In Canada, the CKC sponsors tracking events and you can check their website for a list of nearby events.
Field Trials are regularly held for Basset Hounds, Beagles and Dachshunds to demonstrate their ability to find and track game. Similarily Field Trials and Hunting Trials are held almost every weekend across the country for: the Pointing Breeds, the Retrievers, and Spaniels to allow them to compete and demonstrate their hunting abilities under a strict set of conditions. If you are an owner of a hunting dog puppy, you will want to look into many of the organized activities designed for your dog. Check out the AKC or CKC websites for a list of contacts and field trials in your area.
Other Fun Activites that you might wish to explore include flyball, frisbee, herding and drafting competitions.
Dog breeding is not as simple as you think. Countless sensible pet owners favor to get purebred dogs nowadays. Even on a similar multiplies, breeding lines are inclined to create numerous traits and types of dogs. As you can watch, dog breeding is a complex undertaking and without enough knowledge, you can't be an impressive dog breeder.
Dog breeding is continuously grueling for beginners, particularly when you consider the amount of time, money, and effort you need to invest. Don't make the mistake of rushing in before you know your subject. The major to achievement is research followed by even more research. Once you're equipped with all the theoretical knowledge you should consult an expert breeder. Visit his premises and take note of the manner he does things. You will gain helpful insight into the specific dog breeding experience.
Some dogs may be bred for performance, and will regularly take part in events such as flyball. Dogs some for breeding frequently display fine athletic abilities. Structure and physical appearance are not so important in dogs bred for best performance. Dogs from many breeds are allowed to mate if they are agile and athletic. In that situation the breeders can only hope the pups will display the same qualities as their parents. One exceedingly suitable example is the breeding of a Jack Russell with a Border Collie. This produces a pup which in the sports community is known as a BorderJack.
Once you have your perfect female you will call for to look for a good stud. Certain studs are offered for sale while others are accessed via payment of a fee. The most popular and reputable breeds are expensive, but if you decide attractive puppies you require to look for an experienced stud. Don't be persuaded to use a friend's stud; you call for to look for the best. Visit the kennel club in your local area. Ask to see the dog's certification; and following clear arrangements you can arrange to bring your female to meet the stud. This arrangement means the stud owner can help with the mating process. First time females can be hard so you need all the expert help you can get.
Be sure that you don't underestimate these items when you calculate the cost being a professional dog breeder. Also, project to work with a veterinarian in caring for them, and see if a monthly payment policy can be implemented when that becomes necessary. Keep in mind to include advertising, the cost of building, outfitting, and electrifying a kennel, liability and property insurance premiums, zoning approval, property taxes, and maintenance.
You know your dog better than anyone else; and you should know if it's an great example of its breed. If you are aware of any disqualifying faults in your dog you should not be allowing it to breed. If on the other hand your dog has a few minor faults these can be counteracted by finding a suitable partner. However, the situation is a variety of if you have a dog that is simply mediocre. Constantly check the standards required in each breed. If in doubt ask an expert to evaluate your dog properly.
Just remember, you need to become skilled at as much as you can about dog breeding. With the knowledge and advice you gain from speaking to expert breeders you will be well on your manner to success.
Protect Your Pets By Preventing Flea And Tick Infestation
If you have a pet, no doubt you are concerned about its welfare. One major topic that many pet owners and pet lovers are concerned with is controlling the infestation of pests like fleas and ticks. Fleas and ticks can be a bothersome nuisance to both you and your pet dog or pet cat, and in turn this can negatively affect you and your family also.
Fleas
Fleas are an irritant because their bites form itchy and irritating sores on humans. Fleas are blood-sucking insects that bite both humans and animals and. They can jump lengths of over a foot, and have a lifespan as long as several months. If you have children, especially babies, this can be an even bigger concern as the rashes and sores developed from flea bites can potentially be harmful and affect their health adversely.
Ticks
Ticks can be harmful to humans as they can potentially transmit the very serious disease called Lyme disease. Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that may very well prove to be fatal if not treated properly and in time.
Although you may love your pet cats and/or dogs, the welfare of yourself and your family should be of the utmost priority. How can you prevent and remedy the infestation of fleas and ticks on your most loves pets? Well, there are many medications and solutions that are created for pet dogs and cats and designed especially for this purpose.
Flea and Tick Control Medication
There are special pet medications to control the infestation of flea and ticks on your beloved pet. These remedies are often made and formulated for cats and dogs of all sizes.
One such pet medication called Frontline even makes special formulas for cats and dogs of all sizes, and they also formulate their remedies for baby cats and baby dogs. This means that puppies and kittens that are at least 8 weeks, or 2 months old, are able to be given Frontline flea and tick control.
Frontline is not the only company that makes these pet medications. There are several companies that produce these types of pet meds. Another such brand of pest control medication for your pet is K9 Advantix. This specific brand protects against fleas, ticks, and also misquitoes. However, like the name of the medication kind of tells you, these formulas are made for dogs only.
You do not have to seek the advice of a trained professional or get a prescription from a veterinarian in order to obtain most flea and tick control pet meds. However, this is recommended as veterinarians are very well-equipped to answer any questions you might have as to if this is a suitable treatment for your pet, if there are any side effects for both pet and humans.
Whatever method and route of flea and tick control you choose to go, it is always best to be safe than sorry. Although a consultation with a veterinarian is not required, it is often strongly recommended.
About the Author
Frontline and Frontline Plus is a great remedy for getting rid of fleas and ticks that may dwell on your pet cats and dogs. Find great deals on this product at Jays website, Frontline Flea Control.
K9 Training Collar 101, Equip 2 Endure
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I know there are tons of sites and shows like the Dog Whisper. I want to know what worked for YOU, please.
My dog was doing well, but he has now reverted back to his old ways of pulling ahead on the leash and getting distracted by everything including other dogs, people, trees, etc.
I would like to know what equipment (certain leash, harness, etc.) you used that worked well and how you trained the dog to stay at your side. I am the alpha dog at all times, except when we go on walks....then he thinks he is in charge.
I give a gradual steps in my process, but the number one rule is YOU walk THEM, not the other way around. If you are walking, don't stop even if the dog does, keep going and the dog will be pulled back to you. If you have a dog that pulls, stop every five minutes or so, just to let them know, you won't go unless YOU WANT TO.
I start with regular collars, if they are really tenacious about pulling I move to anti-pull harness, I have had to use a choke chain on dogs that pull to tough even on an anti-pull harness. This may seem cruel, but I never yank the chain, the dog does all the resistence themselves and will learn very quickly to stay near you and walk at your pace or the walk gets to be no fun for them.
NEVER LEAVE A CHOKE CHAIN ON A DOG THAT IS UNATTENDED OR NOT ON A WALK WITH YOU!
NEVER USE A CHOKE CHAIN FOR CORRECTIVE PURPOSES!
After the dog has learned proper walking behavior, go down to the harness again. If the dog is still performing correctly, go down to the collar and enjoy your walks.
This has had a 100% success rate with me and my pooches.
Always remember, to be a proper dog owner, sometimes you have to be a jerk......
Removing Dog Training Equipment and Aids - Part 2
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In general German Shepherds are obedient, loyal and has an excellent sense of smell. They are lively eager and highly trainable because of their desire to obey.
The standard colours of German Shepherds are black with reddish brown, brown, tan or light grey markings. The average dog size is 60 to 65cm and the average size for the bitch is 55 to 60cm. In all breeds bitches tend to be smaller than dogs. The weight of an average German Shepherd for dogs is 30 to 40 kg's and for bitches 22 to 32 kg.
They are classed as a large breed and therefore they would be fed a larger kibble food such as Arden Grange Large Breedor they could be fed a breed specific food such as Eukanuba German Shepherd food or Royal Canin German Shepherd. One of the benefits of using the large breed dog food is the kibble is larger.
As like with all dogs you will need a suitable dog bed, dog collar and of course a good dog lead. These are the basic essentials for any dog, but with the German Shepherd being a larger dog then the accessories need to be that bit stronger.
This is also a working dog and many are found to be working as police dogs. This is because they can be trained and are very loyal animals. They are also known as guard dogs.
German Shepherds are a great all round dog that will also make good family pets. There are many breeders club available to join to learn more about the breed or why not join a local dog training club where you can take your new dog to learn good basic obedience.
All dogs benefit from learning new skills so you can do as much training as you can possibly fit in. At your local dog training club you will be able to learn sports such as obedience, flyball and agility. All three disciplines take time and effort from you and your dog but you will see the benefits when your pup starts to grow and turns into a well behaved balanced dog.
About the Author
Karren Newton is a pet advisor with Swell Pets one of UK's leading online store of pet supplies that supply dog food from Iams Dog Food, James Wellbelovedand Naturediet.
Before you begin your dog agility training, basic obedience training must come first.Your dog needs to be able to come to you quickly when you call him/her, sit, lay down, hold a stay and keep their cool around other dogs. If you could train your dog in some off leash heel work you will have a big advantage but it is not a must.
Another side note, if you and your dog have played fetch, you will have an easier time with dog agility training. You can start by introducing your dog(s) to smaller versions of the obstacles. Then, you gradually work your way up to larger and larger equipment until they reach their full competition forms. Your dog will need 'spotting' at this stage kind of like you would when working out in a gym. You should always have your dog pre-screened before entering any intensive training. He/she can become badly injured if you don't have their hips, elbows and eyes checked first to make sure everything is OK.
I also suggest that you do not use any restrictive collars or technique that may compromise the dogs use of the equipment properly. Once they have learned the basic obstacle work, they can enter the next level of training. That's when the handler gradually conditions the dog to jump higher and perfects an effective command vocabulary of body signals as well as vocal ones. The agility obstacles that are the hardest and take most work are the jumps. Your dog must undergo about 6+ months of skeletal conditioning at low jumping heights so that he/she can thicken their bones and develop needed strengths for landing jumps in the future.
These are just some of the very basics of dog agility training that I thought I'd share with you in this article. I hope you learned a thing or two!
A new UK classified jobs board for the security industry has been launched
A new UK classified jobs board for the security industry has been created that will attract security employees and employers in the fields of bouncers, doormen, door supervisors, close protection to name but a few.
The new website took its global launching recently, and will attract the trades employers and employees from across the UK. The purpose behind the making of this jobs board is to help new and experienced security professionals find employment across the UK.
The jobs board is very user friendly and totally free to use for employees seeking jobs within the industry. They will be able to search by town, county or postcode and can also search by the type of security job sector or job title they are looking for. The jobs board hosts different job titles such as Door Supervisors, Doorman, Bouncers, VIP/Close Protection, Porters, Security Guards, Concierge and for venues and sectors like Bars/Pubs & Clubs, Events, Resorts, Hotels, Apartments and many more.
Forming of this classified jobs board within the security trade took roots when it dawned on the developer that many people pursuing a job within security found it difficult to know where to start. The idea of the jobs board will help people of all levels to find the most relevant employers for the trade that they are currently involved in.
The site also boasts a forum which will create a social network for the security industry and help bring people together who understand the pressures and strains behind the scenes. Users will also be able to share experiences within the different security trades whilst giving newcomers a great opportunity to get a taste of their future employment and familiarise themselves with the job requirements.
Each member has the option of introducing themselves within the Forum by writing a pen picture about them however brief or descriptive. This will hopefully generate a more personal networking experience for the users. The forum will help people of all levels get the necessary advice on training, equipment, career development, and much more.
The aim is to act as a source of professionally recognised expertise in the security profession and providing a means of encouraging a wider membership to the doorman-security.com website.
This is a valuable global meeting place for security professionals to feel comfortable and exchange views and opinions about the industry, helping contribute to the growth of the website via suggestions of services for members, related to the different security professions.
A classified jobs board like this will surely help the security industry and hopefully develop and direct people in to employment. This will unquestionably be a first stop online portal for employers and employees alike. A valued experience will be gained for everyone involved and will generate thousands of visitors, by the way of employment, help and direction.
A new UK classified jobs board for the security industry has been created that will attract security employees and employers in the fields of bouncers, doormen, door supervisors, close protection to name but a few.
The new website took its global launching recently, and will attract the trades employers and employees from across the UK. The purpose behind the making of this jobs board is to help new and experienced security professionals find employment across the UK.
The jobs board is very user friendly and totally free to use for employees seeking jobs within the industry. They will be able to search by town, county or postcode and can also search by the type of security job sector or job title they are looking for. The jobs board hosts different job titles such as Door Supervisors, Doorman, Bouncers, VIP/Close Protection, Porters, Security Guards, Concierge and for venues and sectors like Bars/Pubs & Clubs, Events, Resorts, Hotels, Apartments and many more.
Forming of this classified jobs board within the security trade took roots when it dawned on the developer that many people pursuing a job within security found it difficult to know where to start. The idea of the jobs board will help people of all levels to find the most relevant employers for the trade that they are currently involved in.
The site also boasts a forum which will create a social network for the security industry and help bring people together who understand the pressures and strains behind the scenes. Users will also be able to share experiences within the different security trades whilst giving newcomers a great opportunity to get a taste of their future employment and familiarise themselves with the job requirements.
Each member has the option of introducing themselves within the Forum by writing a pen picture about them however brief or descriptive. This will hopefully generate a more personal networking experience for the users. The forum will help people of all levels get the necessary advice on training, equipment, career development, and much more.
The aim is to act as a source of professionally recognised expertise in the security profession and providing a means of encouraging a wider membership to the doorman-security.com website.
This is a valuable global meeting place for security professionals to feel comfortable and exchange views and opinions about the industry, helping contribute to the growth of the website via suggestions of services for members, related to the different security professions.
A classified jobs board like this will surely help the security industry and hopefully develop and direct people in to employment. This will unquestionably be a first stop online portal for employers and employees alike. A valued experience will be gained for everyone involved and will generate thousands of visitors, by the way of employment, help and direction.
About the Author
Security Jobs UK director
http://doorman-security.com
Schutzhund Training equipment - WUSV comptition Belgian Malinois - Malinois Training - K9 Training
Dog agility is a sport in which handler directs a dog off-leash through obstacle course in a race for time and accuracy. Obstacle course consist of various tunnels, jumps, a tire jump, weave poles, a pause table where the dog must sit or lie down for a count of five seconds, and obstacles that the dog must climb. The first dog agility performance was as entertainment at the Crufts dog show in 1978 and became a success that is now gaining popularity worldwide. It demonstrates dog’s ability to be versatile, quick and agile. All types and breeds of dogs can join in this sport. Even children and puppies are encouraged to participate in this event. If you do not want to compete and want to join the agility just for fun, you can do so in non-competitive agility classes.
In an agility training course, training obedience is the basic key. Dogs are trained to be obedient to their owner or the handler. The dogs must know and obey the different commands such as sit, halt or stop, lay down and other commands that can be used during the agility course. Dog agility equipment is necessary during the training. In purchasing dog agility equipment, there are things that you have to consider. First, you have to consider the dog. Use appropriate equipment for your dog’s size, breed, and age. Second, adjustable equipment is recommended to be used on your dog, this way; you can adjust it to the level of training. Go for portability of the equipment. If do not want to spend most of your time assembling the course, choose dog agility equipment that can be put together easily or already assembled.
Consult a veterinarian before starting the agility training to ensure that your dog is in good physical health and have the necessary vaccines to participate in the training. Making sure that your dog has the strength and endurance to overcome one obstacle after another. Dog agility training helps develop the bonding between the pet owner or handler and the dog. Talk to your dog and offer treats for an accomplished command or task.
[simpleaffiliate source="chitika" results="0"][/simpleaffiliate] How do you train a blind dog for an agility course?
I have a 2 year old blind aussie shepherd and i want to know how to train her to go thorugh an agility course, just any tips someone might have. I dont expect her to actually compete or anything but i want to bond with her and have her become more comftorble in strange places. anything will help please... BTW i be poor and cant take her to any training school...
You don't, especially if you can't afford to work with an instructor who will have safety issues in mind.
Which doesn't mean that there aren't things you can do to help build her confidence and bond with you, but jumping of any kind (which comprises most of agility) and climbing up things are dangerous, and I think weaving would be counterproductive to building confidence, as it is a visual skill.
Doing stuff with bosu balls and balance disks to improve balance, doing some perch work for hind end awareness, and teaching her various tricks, and doing scentwork, will be more likely to build her confidence. These vids show some perch and balance work:
[simpleaffiliate source="chitika" results="0"][/simpleaffiliate] does anyone know if the Chattanooga Chew Chew Canine Park has alot of agility equipment?
i was just wandering if this park had agility equipment because i have never been before and i really want to teach my dog agility because she is very good with commands. and if this park does not have alot of equipment....then could you tell me another place in the chattanooga area that is cheap or free that has equipment or trains dogs for agility??
thank you guys soooooooooo much!! this helps alot:))
and if you guys could... then could you tell me how i can enter in agility competitions??
again...thank you guys<3
Yes! The park has agility equipment. Here is a link to a review on Dogster. Maybe it will give you a better idea.
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Dog agility is a sport for dogs in which a handler instructs a dog in mastery of obstacle race for accuracy and speed. It is compose of a set of standard obstacles that require proper dog agility equipments for successful training. The competition has a judge, who decides and designs the area where the game is to be conducted. The dog cannot complete without the direction of the trainer or handler. In the competition, the handler must assess the course, able to decide for strategies and directs the dog throughout the training.
The handler is allowed to have a short walk-through before the start of the competition. All handlers can run and walk around the area to determine the appropriate possible position. This is to guide and direct the dog for an accurate and immediate way through the obstacles. The dog and the handler have a different path that needs careful planning to have a quick run.
Most paths are composed of various turns and U-turns to about 270 degrees. The obstacles can be used more than once. The handler must have planned for the strategies between himself and the dog for layers and distances. They are given maps of the agility course that have icons that show the position and orientation of the obstacles. Each dog in the course and handler is given an opportunity to complete successfully. Handlers direct the dog in verbal commands and body language including position of the arms, shoulders and feet.
For a successful training, you need to buy proper equipments and tools for your dogs right equipments can avoid accidents and injuries. Weave poles are one of the hot items available for agility and speed test. A closed tunnel is an equipment that could be a challenging obstacle for your pet. The dog should learn to run through the tunnel without seeing the other end. You can also train your dog to jump by providing him with an agility bar jump. This equipment is simple in design that can be used for dog jumps. A dog walk is another obstacle that has contact zones. Mostly of the sanctioning organizations requires slats on the ramps. With these agility equipments it is one way you can spend time with your dog along with healthy exercises that are fun for you and your dog.
There are many dog agility events that are conducted on different areas around the world. For dog lovers, this event is one of a kind. Latest training equipments for beginners and for those who are joining competitions are available on the market. If you want to win the next agility competition have dog agility equipment tools. Choose light obstacles that can easily be transferred from your home or training sites to the location of the competition. There are a lot of available equipments today such as jumps, tunnels, dog frames, weave poles, seesaws, A-frames, crossover, pause box, tables and other agility supplies and accessories. Start your agility program as soon as possible. Winning the competition is not impossible with proper training and mastery on the obstacles.
About the Author
Learn more about dog agility equipments my pets and I like best by visiting Premier Dog Supplies.
My wife and I and our 2 dogs are heading to Williams, Az Besides the train to the G .C., what else is there??
We are already booked on the train to the Grand Canyon and have another whole day in Williams. Unfortunately we couldn't book the hotel for the weekend due to the dogs and it being Memorial Day Weekend, but we're looking for some of the more unuisual things to see and do. Thank You!!!!
There is plenty to see and do in Northern Arizona besides the Grand Canyon (although that is certain a great place). Here are some ideas:
Flagstaff - Next town to the east. Flagstaff, like Williams, is a historic railroad and lumber town and a popular stop on Route 66 that has a neat downtown area with many old historic buildings now filled with shops, galleries and cafes. However Flagstaff is quite a bit bigger than Williams, so there are considerably more shops, cafes and attractions.
Lowell Observatory - Located on hill overlooking downtown Flagstaff. This is where Pluto was discovered in 1930 and they have a very nice museum (and sometimes night viewings with the telescopes). There is a small dog park nearby at Thorpe Park.
Museum of Northern Arizona - Excellent museum just north of Flagstaff with many Native American displays.
Sunset Crater and Wupatki National Monuments - Northeast of Flagstaff. One is an old volcanic field with cinder cones and lava beds, the other is a series of prehistoric indian ruins that you can explore.
Grand Canyon Deer Farm - Located between Williams and Flagstaff, this is a petting zoo where you can walk with and feed deer (and a variety of other animals). Kinda touristy, but I loved it as a kid.
Lava River Cave - This is a lava tube cave located out in the National Forest near Bellmont (between Flagstaff and Williams). It is undeveloped - you will need to have your own flashlights, etc. It is one long tube (like a big subway tunnel - hard to get lost in). Even in summer, it is pretty cool (bring a jacket). See link below for directions.
There are many very nice hiking and picnicing spots around the Flagstaff-Williams area that would be good with dogs. The San Francisco Peaks (north of Flagstaff) has many trails (as well as a ski limit that often run in summer for the views) and so does nearby Mount Elden.
Oak Creek Canyon and the famous red rocks of Sedona are just south of Flagstaff and a popular tourist attraction. There are many hiking and creek-splashing options there as well as a variety of (often fancy and expensive) cafes and art galleries.
ARIZONA DOG TRAINING VIDEO - PHOENIX DOG TRAINING
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Do I combine weightlifting and agility training for football in one session?
How do I go about this, i'm going to tryout for football next season and i'm starting to condition and train myself now. Do I weightlift AND sprint/jump/run ect. in one training session? Like start out day one by hitting the weights and right after do some 40 yard dashes?
No do them separately. Do weight lifting one day take break for one and then the day after that do some agility's.
Undisputed Football Agility and Speed Training Program
