Last show of the season

The Saturday before last we were at the GSD Agility show, our last show of the year. I decided to handle most of my runs slightly differently and really test our training to give me an idea of what needs work over the winter. Lots of things Smudge had previously found difficult he did with ease and it was great to see that the training is paying off. His contacts were almost perfect (for the first time ever in the ring – woo hoo) although I still want to speed up the down plank of the dog walk. He isn’t creeping anymore, but I just know he can be faster! Unfortunately we had 5F on the weaves in the agility run as I decided to go for the riskier option of sending him in and crossing behind. I moved off too quick and pulled him out. Ah well, another point to work on!!

The rest of the day was great with Smudge getting 1st in both jumping and steeplechase.

Poor Maisie didn’t even get one clear round, and that was totally my fault. I really need to concentrate on her more when we run. I tend to walk courses with Smudge in mind, and don’t even think about Maisie. She used to be my 100% safe bet clear round dog, but because I just run her for fun now, I mess it up! She has actually picked up speed since doing less training, so I really should do her justice in the ring. A clear is a clear after all!

Scooby was good and is so close to getting it perfect. He just always has one pole! However the improvement is amazing and it’s only a matter of time now before they really get it together – I am sure!!

Lastly I wanted to put this picture of Maisie on here. I took this as we need to give the trophy back soon, and I wanted to make sure I had a picture to remember. Maisie was presented with this last year. It is given by the president of the GSD training club and is presented for ‘Outstanding achievement in an agility year’. She won it as it was the year she qualified for Crufts. I love this picture – she looks so cute!