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Originally Posted by HyunSo  We watched your videos on U-Tube. You guys are awesome. Seriously though, how long did it take to get the teeter and do you have an tips? We've been training for about 3 months and the teeter just is working out for us. It's when it tilts thats the problem. Suggestions? |
LOL, Quicksilver, I think it HAS! I took him for a walk today and tossed a new toy for him. Rather than bring it back, he stayed there and squeaked it for 10 minutes while Rusty and I finished our walk in a circle around him. I finally had to go get him, the brat.
And HyunSo, thanks! The teeter is Eddie's nemesis. He does fine on the wooden one in my backyard because it doesn't make a lot of noise, but when the big dogs pound over the heavy metal teeter in class, he freaks out and hides in the tunnel. I actually quit agility for a year because it frightened him so much and wasn't any fun.
But a new instructor has him doing much, much better. Her philosophy is to take it slow. She puts the teeter out for two runs, maximum, in a one-hour class. Then she puts it away. She doesn't see any benefit in making him go over 10-12 times in a row. That may not help you if you've got an instructor who won't put it away.
As for secrets, start with it on its lowest setting, lure her up with great treats or a favorite toy, then have somebody easy it down. Don't let it bang abruptly. We did that with Eddie, and he's to the point where he can go over the heavy metal teeter once or twice with it banging before he shuts down. And that's all I need him to do for a trial. One time.
Also, all agility organizations don't require the teeter. I entered a North American Dog Agility Council (NADAC) trial this weekend, and they don't even use it. They have classes like "jumpers," "weavers," and "tunnelers," where it's all fun, no stress for Eddie. I love it. I may never enter an AKC trial, which requires it.
Sorry for the long missive! Hope it helps.