mrv
Posted : 2/15/2008 4:00:24 PM
There are no jumps. If you check the signs you will be able to identify all the possible behaviors you need to have learned. In Novice that involves turns of all types, halts, downs, sits, finishes, spirals etc. You need to be careful about Finish rights and finish lefts, one some signs you are required to have the dog return to heel position and sit, sometimes just return to heel and move... Make sure you instantly recognize the difference between the two signs. The biggest issue is tight leads,,, there are judges that will actually fail you for the run if the leash does not have a clear "J" loop.
The class order may change based on the number of days the show runs, but usually higher level classes are first. Times are really fast compared to obedience or even agility. There are always 2-3 dogs on deck. If you have a conflict, talk to the judge prior to judging while they are waiting for advanced handlers to walk the course. Most will accommodate you. However we had a rep at a show that forced us to end the class, we had waited about 10 minutes for the last dog.. She was out of luck.