Hoopers - Novice Skills and Sequencing

Hoopers - Novice Skills and Handling.

(Please note there will be a layover week with no class on Feb 19, this class goes for four weeks, finishing on March 5th)

Hoopers is a fun, low impact, free flowing sport. If you or your dog find that high impact activities are not for you then try Hoopers. Hoopers equipment is low impact, with natural lines for the dogs, allowing them to run smoothly around the course.  Dogs of all ages and sizes can do Hoopers! Tunnels are straight, hoops are tall and roomy and there’s no weaves or contacts like the dog walk – both tiny and giant breeds get to join in the fun, including dogs where jumping isn't in their best interests.

This course will begin with revisiting skills learnt in Intro/Starters level, with a focus on building distance, and handling changes of direction,  encouraging your dog to follow parths with drive.  For Handlers, the challenges are looking at your line, and what path the dog takes, and how you can create that flowing line. Our focus is all about having fun with your dog and getting that flow going.  Distance handling is optional, if you would rather clock up your daily steps and run with your dog, that is great!

However, if you find it difficult to run, Hoopers can be brilliant for distance handling, which is a great option not just for dogs, but for handlers who are not as mobile too. Handlers can use mobility carts, wheelchairs, walking aids or even a chair on the course before they start.  Retired agility and flyball dogs are able to enjoy a whole new chapter to their sporting careers with Hoopers being designed to keep them safe and engaged. Training is purely positive, reinforcement based and uses choice games and free shaping to work the dog's mind as well as the body.  Hoopers is designed so that anyone and any dog can get out there and have some fun. We will wind up on week four with a Novice Level NADAC course.