The Considerate Canine: High Energy Activities

The Problem: I'm looking for new challenges for a very active German Shepherd, she's bored with local agility courses. -Linda McDaniel

Linda, there are so many things that we can do with our dogs. Just like us, dogs have their preferences and a great owner learns to recognize and honor that. Good for you!

Some places have more readily available sports, events, classes and opportunities than others. Since I don’t know where you live, you will have to do some homework. Be sure to check out the local classes and experiment to find the things that work best for you and your dog.

Here are some ideas that you may want to investigate.

• Tricks
• Canine Crime Scene Investigation
• Fun nosework
• Tracking
• Herding
• Dock diving
• Flyball
• Treibball
• Disc dog
• Schutzhund
• Freestyle obedience
• Rally -- AKC, APDT rally has just moved to USDAA Rally
• Competition obedience
• Agility

I realize that you are doing some agility now, but consider taking some classes with a different trainer or club that offers different courses.

There really is something for every dog and human partner. Feel free to contact me and I’ll try to give you some direction to any class or sport that you are interested in.

Have fun and keep playing with your dog!

Cindy Carter, CPDT-KA
Mindful Manners Dog Training
843-906-9997
www.mindfulmanners.net