Beginning Schutzhund?

[CrazyDogLady]

I plan on getting into ring sports with my next dog (estimated arrival July/August 2015) but its definitely not something I know a ton about yet. So, what sort of commands are needed before starting? Proper age to begin actual ring work? Obviously things like jumping will be limited until he is 2 years old, and we will be involved in other sports as well so there will be no rush to start.

 

[FG167]

I would start with a club now, before you get a puppy.

Also, ring sports and schutzhund are two different sports.

 

[CrazyDogLady]

I would start with a club now, before you get a puppy.

Also, ring sports and schutzhund are two different sports.

Yes, they are We would probably do schutzhund as it seems more structured, but I'd like info on both just in case. Sorry that wasn't very clear in my op There is only one club that I know of in my immediate area, and I refuse to go to them. But I will definitely keep a look out for others, know of any in the Olympia Washington area that are good?

 

[GatorDog]

I start foundation training at 7 or 8 weeks when they come home and try to at least introduce each exercise that would be seen in trial before a year. And definitely join a club.

 

[CrazyDogLady]

I start foundation training at 7 or 8 weeks when they come home and try to at least introduce each exercise that would be seen in trial before a year. And definitely join a club.

What do you consider foundation training? I've read that Black Russian Terriers mature slower (mentally) than other breeds used for the sport, so should I take it extra slow? The pup is half BRT half Mal, not sure if that makes any difference or not though

ETA: With past pups I usually have them ready for Novice rally by 16 weeks at the latest. We obviously don't compete that young, but I find its a fairly good base for most of the things we encounter while out socializing and just day to day stuffs

 

[ytigfagb]

I think it just started training a dog is a difficult thing.