February tracking

2/6/23 class @ Edward's, track in hayfield

Given choice of 2 turn types and scuff walk food pattern, I opted for right 90 degree and left open turns with No Food drops.

At start, no down for article but Duck started working almost immediately, checked out off in right briefly but went into tracking mode with nose down and shoulders square to the track, I hoped. He made this track feel easy at the start and I actually expected that to continue as he hit the right turn and took it very well. A few months ago this was a weak point so I am excited that he handled it with ease. I didn't even think for a second that it was the open turn. We continued on and he was still so dedicated and sure of his track. I had vowed today to just trust him as he has been working so tight on the tracks this past week. Gotta admit that I heard no one walking behind me so I felt a touch concerned for a second but I had to focus on Duck. I figured I'll just continue until I hear voices from behind redirecting me...lol, what I got instead was a glove a few feet in front of me and then Duck downed, so I praised him and raised the glove.

It's really amazing the difference between a dog that is intensely focused, joyous and dedicated to the track versus one that is only kind of motivated and not ready to go without food. Honestly, yesterday and today, he worked the tracks very much like his older sister Daisy did 5,6 years ago.

Thank you, Judi, for teaching, guiding and helping Duck and I get to this milestone.