The Utility Class
The Utility class differs markedly from the Open by consisting of scent discrimination of a leather and metal article, directed retrieve, signal exercise, directed jumping and group examination. The AKC Utility score card will be used for judging. The jump shall be one and one half times the height of the dog at the withers with a minimum of 8 inches and a maximum of 36 inches. This applies to all breeds with the exception of those listed in the AKC rule book available from the American Kennel...
The Retrieve on Flat
For the retrieve on flat, the handler stands with the dog sitting in the heel position. The judge gives the order, Throw it, whereupon the handler gives the command and signal, Stay, and throws a dumbbell about 30 feet Figure 17- If your dog enjoys retrieving, remove the leash in the sixth week. Gradually increase the distance to 30 feet and start your dog from the sitting position. Figure 17- If your dog enjoys retrieving, remove the leash in the sixth week. Gradually increase the distance to...
Directed Retrieve Seek back
This exercise is conducted as follows Place your dog in the sitting position facing away from the unobstructed end of the ring as shown in the drawing The judge will then drop the three predominately white cotton work gloves across the end of the ring. The gloves shall be designated One, Two or Three from left to right when the handler turns and faces the gloves. The judge will order a retrieve of one of the three numbers. The handler will then give the command, Duke, heel and will turn in...
The Heel Off Leash
The heel off leash starts from the heel position. Unsnap the leash and have your dog sitting squarely at your heel. Figure 1- Before heeling your dog off leash, you may want to test him by hanging the leash around your neck. Figure 1- Before heeling your dog off leash, you may want to test him by hanging the leash around your neck. Figure 2- Show confidence in your dog when he is off leash. Figure 2- Show confidence in your dog when he is off leash. Upon the command, Forward, from your...
Dumbbell Size
When teaching a dog to retrieve, it is important to use a dumbbell of correct size for the dog. The length of the bar should be about one inch more than the width between the dog's eyes for unobstructed vision. The bells should keep the bar far enough off the ground for the dog to grasp it behind his canine teeth without touching the ground with his nose. The bar should be large enough not to rock in his mouth and pinch his lips but not so large that he drools. Study the size of your dog's...