Utility Here We Come! School News Spring, 2005   One Step at a Time   Well, who would ever think we'd be training basic Utility! Or, is that Futility? It's been quite a rush moving through the ranks of obedience training. CD, CDX and now the most advanced and exciting of all- the UD title. One thing is for sure, we're having a blast! Koshare learns her lessons quickly, usually with an inquisitive expression, as though to say, "What the hec are we doing this for?" Occasionally, however, Koshare appears legitimately upset with herself when she doesn't immediately understand what I am asking for. Sometimes, she can be so silly! Koshare is a thinker, her mind is constantly at work. At this stage I hope is where Koshare's aptitude, focus and athleticism all blend into one total package. And, of course, let's not forget about fun; our number one objective! Without it, what's the point? The Approach   Is this where I pull my hair out? Training has been a voyage, but not necessarily in rough seas. Practice, practice and more practice! We're are constantly exploring new theories and techniques, tweaking the one's that best satisfy our personal style. And networking. Where would we be without the guidance and wisdom of good friends who are always so willing to suggest and assist? Being a happy worker, but also very much a terrier, Koshare's training sessions are abbreviated to five and ten minute segments of learning, several times per day. Slow and steady we go, but how we celebrate, large, when our we get our lessons done well! When I see Koshare's smug, toothy grin, thats my cue to turn up the party. Are we having fun yet? Understanding repetition can bore the brightest Airedale, my aim is to incorporate a variety of skills, in a disguised manner, every day. Koshare never knows what will be asked of her. The motto here? "A command, is a command, is a command", no matter the location, time, or purpose. Now knowing this can read harshly, I assure you, this is some of our most positive training of all! The element of surprise tends to serve as a magical formula, keeping Koshare fresh on her toes, wanting to please and play along! It's our daily game that really demonstrates what has been learned and what might require more proofing and work. Always in the back of my mind, I am silently creating new, motivational games to heighten the level of enjoyment to work, to learn and to achieve. Keeping Koshare's work drive turned on high isn't particularly difficult. (big sigh of relief!) Very often, my excited worker is ready to fulfill a command before I give one, especially when we're learning something new. I've concluded, I'd rather have an eager Airedale anticpating my thoughts, (showing me she is engaging and proactive!) than a turned off, disinterested, or stubborn Airedale who flips the paw, protesting in disrespect. Keeping a lid on what I call "the sillies" is a big hurdle. There's a fine line between having fun, to a full speed ahead, freestyle tuckbutt! But, then again nobody could ever say we're not having a good time.   The Reward The process of connecting all of the dots, on a daily basis, with Koshare is the ultimate. Our journey together isn't anything I ever want to rush or force. Training, is one of the components which brings so much daily pleasure, it's virtually inexplicable. I guess I could say, I see it in Koshare's eyes and I feel it deep within my soul. For us, our journey is the reward. We're not in any rush to jump into the pageantry of competition from show rings, to ribbons, to title. Sure, we'll be out there, but only when it feels right in my heart, in our connectivity as handler and dog. Instead, I want to enjoy the moment, the process, that special "connection" when we truly arrive. I want to remember our enjoyment while achieving and while having legitmate fun, so many often lose sight of. Our reward is our teamwork, companionship and chemistry to excel, arriving at our journey's end fulfilled, happily complete and on top of our game. This chapter to be continued.....