Retrieve Foundations 2025 Session 5

Retrieve Foundations 2025 Session 5

• Three week session : $55 nonmember/ $35 member
• Wednesdays   12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
• Classes start on October 1, 2025
• Registration for Members opens Aug 11, 2025
• Registration for Non-Members opens Aug 18, 2025
• Registration closes August 22, 2025  after which NO registrations will be accepted

• No Refunds  or changes after registration closes except where provided by  Policy 15 "Refunds

• Instructor: Sue Vickery and Barb Sheedy
• If you have trouble registering contact the Training Director Betsy Powers at  betsyp2014@gmail.com

Class Description 

Many common retrieve issues such as mouthing, improper pickups, reluctance to retrieve, pawing at the dumbbell, playing with it and more can often be prevented with a solid retrieve foundation.  If you're experiencing retrieve issues with your dog, this class is for you!  If your dog doesn't know how to do a competition obedience retrieve and you'd like to learn how to start, this class is also for you.  The focus of this workshop style mini-class, which will meet for three one-hour sessions, will be on developing (or rebuilding) a foundation for a reliable and enthusiastic retrieve.  The steps for training a Motivational Retrieve will be introduced and the class will touch on topics such as building value for the dumbbell, developing the Stationary Hold, developing the Moving Hold and the steps involved in shaping a retrieve.  An overview of shaping, reward markers and reward timing as well as the use of props and problem solving as needed will be presented as well.  Training games will be incorporated throughout the class to help develop a solid Hold as well as increase desire, motivation and speed.

Equipment:  Dumbbell, leash (preferably 6'), clicker, soft high value treats 

Crates are required at each class