When it comes to AKC Scent Work, the Handler Discrimination (HD) and Buried classes are two of the most challenging for many dog and handler teams. Learn why this is, common pitfalls to avoid, tips for success and much more with this exciting roundtable event!
We are thrilled to invite a stellar panel of AKC Scent Work Judges, instructors, trainers and competitors to share their insights and expertise with us regarding the HD and Buried classes.
SPEAKERS
Anita Ambani, Holly Bushard, Judith Guthrie, Natalie McManus, Khara Schuetzner, Aleks Woodroffe
EVENT ORGANIZATION
This event will be split into (2) 1.5 hour sections, each with a specific focus.
SECTION 1: UNIQUE CHALLENGES
FOCUS ONE: ODOR SPECIFICS
- What makes HD and Buried unique from an odor perspective?
- How does the odor behavior affect the challenge?
- As a trial official, how do you design these classes?
- What are some common misconceptions?
- How do these misunderstanding affect teams' performances?
- What should teams grasp about these classes?
FOCUS TWO: WHY TEAMS STRUGGLE
- Why do dogs and handlers typically struggle in HD and Buried?
- What does it look like when a dogs or handlers struggle?
- How does this differ from the traditional odor classes?
- Can issues in other classes also affect HD and Buried performance and vice versa?
SECTION 2: TRAINING AND TRIALING TIPS (1.5 HOURS)
FOCUS ONE: TRAINING
- What are the common training pitfalls for teams to avoid?
- What are some "musts" teams should do when training?
- How do you incorporate distractors?
- What are your recommended training exercises?
FOCUS TWO: TRIALING
- What are the common trialing pitfalls for teams to avoid?
- What should teams consider before competing?
- What do you wish more teams did when competing in these classes?
- How can teams be more strategic in HD and Buried?
- What do you enjoy most about officiating and/or competing in these classes?
