Oriole Dog Training Club Schedule of Classes

                                                                                                          Registration Info & Policies

Course Listings:     OBEDIENCE   DOG SPORTS PREPARATION     AGILITY       FLYBALL       TRACKING       K9 NOSE WORK©     CONFORMATION    REGISTRATION FORM

Core Obedience Courses

[OB201] Beginner Novice to Novice Progression. Instructor: Fran Bethea. 8 weeks. This class builds on the skills learned in Basic Obedience. You and your dog will learn and practice the skills needed to compete in Beginner Novice (BN) level obedience events. These skills include reading BN signs and the individual exercises. Novice skills and exercises will also be included in this course for those who are ready.  The dog must have a knowledge of basic commands of Sit, Down, Stay, and Recall. Dogs need to be able to heel on leash from the start of class. Prerequisites: This class is open to dogs 1 year and older that are able to work around other dogs. Taking a Basic Obedience class is recommended or permission of the instructor. Main Ring 2.

[OB209] Novice Foundations Part II. - FULL  Instructors: Debbie Kaminski and Sue Carlton. 8 Weeks.  This class is Part 2 of our four semester competitive Novice Foundations program.  Students will build upon the foundation skills covered in Novice Foundations, Part I.  Motivational methods will be used to assist in training the exercises, including rear end awareness. Additionally, we will focus on precise teamwork, trial picture, with individual instruction for each of the exercises. This class will prepare your dog for the “Transition to Off Leash Heeling” and “Fine Turning exercises and Handling Skills” classes. Note: After completing this class, the next class in the Novice progression is OB321 Transition to Off-Leash Heeling. Prerequisite: Completion of OB208. Registration Note: Instructor-approved students from the Fall 2025 OB208 can register for this class. All others must receive approval from the instructor before registering for this class. Dogs registered in this class may not be registered for any other ODTC obedience class during the normal registration period (attending a Run Thru or Rally class is permitted). If spots remain after the normal registration period is over, dogs may be registered for additional classes. Main Ring 2.    

[OB209-AUDIT] Novice Foundations Part II AUDIT ONLY.  Instructors: Debbie Kaminski and Sue Carlton. 8 Weeks.  This class is Part 2 of our four-semester competitive Novice Foundations program.  Students will build upon the foundation skills covered in Novice Foundations, Part I.  Motivational methods will be used to assist in training the exercises, including rear end awareness. Additionally, we will focus on precise teamwork, trial picture, with individual instruction for each of the exercises. This class will prepare your dog for the “Transition to Off Leash Heeling” and “Fine Turning exercises and Handling Skills classes. Note: 1) After completing this class, the next class in the Novice progression is OB321 Transition to Off-Leash Heeling; 2) This is an AUDIT ONLY class. Auditors may not bring dogs to class. Prerequisite:  Completion of OB208. Registration Note: Instructor-approved students from the Fall 2025 OB208 can register for this class. All others must receive approval from the instructor before registering for this class. Main Ring 2.    

[OB210] Advanced Novice.  Instructors: Barry Palmer, Andra Shanley.  10 weeks.  This is a three-semester class and specifically intended for those planning to compete at the Novice level.  It is part 5 of the competitive Novice program that begins with Novice Foundations I & II, Transition to Off-leash Heeling and Fine Tuning Exercises and Handling Skills classes.  All Novice exercises will be reviewed & polished. Additionally, foundation skills for Open & Utility exercises will be introduced. Prerequisites: Solid heeling footwork & off-lead heeling, attention, as well as a dependable recall, sit, stand & down. Completion of the four-semester Novice Program: OB208 and OB209 Novice Foundations I and II, OB321 Transition to Off Leash Heeling class, OB412 Fine Tuning exercises and Handling Skills and/or evaluated by instructor before class starts.  Registration Note:  Instructor approved students from the Fall 2025 OB210 can register for this class. All others must receive approval from the instructor before registering for this class. Dogs registered in this class may not be registered for any other ODTC obedience class during the normal registration period (attending a Run Thru or Rally class is permitted). If spots remain after the normal registration period is over, dogs may be registered for additional classes.  Main Ring 1.  

[OB340] Open.  Instructor: Pat Kavanagh, Assistant: Deb Jackson.  10 Weeks. This class is intended for teams that are starting or fine tuning the Open exercises and planning to compete in Open.  The class will emphasize teaching and improving the skills necessary to perform each exercise.  Motivational methods will be used with an emphasis on building a solid foundation to develop the confidence in the dog/handler as a team. Prerequisites: Completion of the OB210 classes and/or evaluated by instructor before class starts. Registration Note: Instructor approved students from the OB210 or OB340 can register for this class. All others must receive approval from the instructor before registering for this class. Registered dogs may attend any of the mini classes. Main Ring 2.

[OB345] Advanced Open/Beginning Utility. - FULL Instructors: Elaine O’Carroll and Val Earwood. 8 Weeks. This class is for those trainers who need additional refinement & proofing skills to successfully compete in Open while also preparing their dogs to learn all the parts of the Utility exercises. Prerequisites:1) Students must be about to compete or currently competing in the Open class at obedience trials;2) They should be familiar with all the Utility class exercises. Registration Note: Instructor approved students from the Fall 2025 OB345 can register for this class. All others must receive approval from the instructor before registering for this class. Note:During the normal registration period, dogs registered for this class may not be registered for any other ODTC obedience Open or Utility class (run-throughs and rally classes are OK). If spots remain after the normal registration period is over, dogs may be registered for additional Open or Utility classes.  Main Rings 1 & 2.

[OB402] Beginning Utility. - FULL  Instructor: Barry Palmer. 10 Weeks. This class is intended for teams that are planning to compete at the Utility Level.  All Utility exercises will be covered and proofed.  Motivational methods will be used with an emphasis on building attitude & confidence in the dog & handler as a team. Prerequisites: Completion of OB341 or OB345.  Registration Note: Instructor-approved students from the Spring 2025 OB341 or Fall 2025 OB345 can register for this class. All others must receive approval from the instructor before registering for this class. Others must have permission from the instructor. Note: During the normal registration period, dogs registered for this class may not be registered for any other ODTC obedience Open or Utility class (run-throughs and rally classes are OK). If spots remain after the normal registration period is over, dogs may be registered for additional Open or Utility classes. Main Ring 1.

 

[OB470] AKC Rally - Novice, Intermediate, Advanced & Excellent Semi-Instructional Class. - FULL Instructor: Michele Long, Assistant: Andra Shanley.  8 wks. Generally, work is on-leash for Novice and Intermediate.  It isoff-leash for Advanced and Excellent dogs, but that is dependent on the team’s working level and the individual trainer's preference. There will be 2 rings with signs and jumps set up to run at all three levels. Generally, students will get 4 runs, 2 runs in each ring. Signs will be reviewed for those requiring instruction. Prerequisite: Dogs must know Basic Obedience commands. Students must be familiar with Rally. (Rally signs can be reviewed on the AKC website under Rally Obedience).  Notes: 1) Limit one dog per handler; 2) If class does not fill, a second dog per handler will be considered. Approval of the instructor is required; 3) Drop-in students will be considered if the class does not fill. Drop-in students will be charged. Approval of the instructor is required prior to joining the class. Main Ring 1 & 2.  Note: Ring setup begins at 5:30pm. No other classes can be booked in the rings at 5:30pm.

Elective Obedience Classes

NEW! [EL OB416] Heeling Skills & Beyond I - Pivots, Attention & Retrieves. Instructor: Pat Kavanagh, Assistant:  Deb Jackson. 3 Weeks:  This mini class will focus on three skills: position and attention in heeling, pivots, and retrieves (both dumbbell and gloves). The class will also demo and answer any questions related to scent articles for those who sign up for workshop II. The Heeling Skills & Beyond workshop series is not progressive, and each workshop focuses on different heeling skills. This workshop is available to any level of competitive obedience team and teams may attend even if enrolled in another competitive class.  Main Ring 2.

NEW! [EL OB417] Heeling Skills & Beyond II - Transitions, Commands & Go-Outs.  Instructor: Pat Kavanagh, Assistant:  Deb Jackson. 4 Weeks. This mini class will focus on: heeling transitions and halts, command discrimination, and beginning go-outs. For those who have articles, the class will begin the Round The Clock method for teaching scent discrimination. This workshop is available to any level of competitive obedience team and teams may attend even if enrolled in another competitive class. Prerequisites: A basic obedience class or permission of the Instructor.  Note: During the normal registration period, dogs registered for this class may not be registered for any other ODTC obedience Open or Utility class (run-throughs and rally classes are OK). If spots remain after the normal registration period is over, dogs may be registered for additional Open or Utility classes.  Main Ring 2.

NEW! [EL OB418] Heeling Skills & Beyond III - Fronts, Finishes & Articles. Instructor: Pat Kavanagh, Assistant:  Deb Jackson. 3 Weeks. This mini class will focus on: turns in heeling, fronts and finishes, and handling in the rings (transitions between exercises). We will also continue to work with participants from the previous workshop on completing the Round The Clock scent discrimination exercises. This workshop is available to any level of competitive obedience team and teams may attend even if enrolled in another competitive class. Prerequisites: A basic obedience class or permission of the Instructor.  Main Ring 2.

[EL OB205] Open Ring Drop-In.   Instructors: Mary Anne Dressler.  8 Weeks.  This class will offer all levels of obedience exercises in a run-thru format.  Handlers will rotate through all positions — judge, steward & distractors.  Open to dog/handler teams preparing to enter competition. The fee is based on per run/per dog/per week. Note: This is not an instructional class. Main Ring 1 & 2.

[EL OB414] Open Ring Run Thrus.  Instructors: Marcia Bresson, Jane Terry.  8 weeks.  This is not an instructional class.  Attendees should be proficient at their competition level.  All competition levels may attend. Time slots will be assigned for each date and rotated during the session. Oversight will be provided by Marcia Bresson and Jane Terry. Both rings will be used simultaneously. Main Ring 1 & 2.

[EL OB473] AKC Rally Run Thrus (Masters, Exc, Adv). Instructors:  Arthur Belendiuk, Jane Andraka.  8 weeks.  This is not an instructional class.  Practice for your advanced titles or get RACH ready!  Two courses will be set per week (Masters, Excellent, or Advanced).  Both rings will be used simultaneously. Oversight will be provided by Jane and Arthur.  Participants will have an opportunity to run each course twice. Prerequisite: Students must be familiar with rally signs. Limit of one dog per registration. Main Ring 1 & 2. Note: Ring setup begins at 8:30am.

 

 

K9 Nose Work©

  

Note: All participants in Nose Work classes at the NW100-NW400 levels are required to volunteer 8 hours at an ODTC K9 Nose Work© or AKC Scent Work event for each class in which they are registered. Volunteering is a fantastic learning opportunity that offers the opportunity to watch multiple dogs searching. We learn as much or more from observation as we do from running our own dogs. Information regarding trial dates/opportunities to volunteer will be provided.

[NW102] Introduction to Odor/K9 Nose Work©. - FULL  Instructors: Sue Cox, CNWI, Jacqueline Reardon, CNWI. 6 Weeks. This is the next sequence in the program for dog/handler teams who have completed NW101 NW Foundations:  Introduction/Foundation to K9 Nose Work©. The instruction provided in this class will follow the methods and foundation of K9 Nose Work©. Classes focus on continued teaching and encouraging the development of your dog’s natural scenting abilities by using their desire to hunt for food and/or toys, now paired with NACSW competition odors (Birch/Anise/Clove). Searches may be videotaped as part of the educational process. Dogs are worked one at a time and must be crated between activities. Dogs may be introduced to indoor settings, outdoor settings, and vehicles in addition to continuing work with containers/boxes. Note:  One dog per handler.  Volunteer Requirement: Beginning with the Winter 2026 semester, there will be a volunteer requirement noted above in this section.  *Class Dates:  Jan. 8, Jan. 22, Feb. 5, Feb. 19, Mar. 5, Mar. 19.  Front Training Room.

[NW102D] Introduction to Odor/K9 Nose Work©. - FULL Instructors: Jacqueline Reardon, CNWI, Barbara Novak, PNWI. 6 Weeks. This is a daytime offering of the class that is the next sequence in the program for dog/handler teams who have completed NW101 NW Foundations:  Introduction/Foundation to K9 Nose work©. The instruction provided in this class will follow the methods and foundation of K9 Nose Work©. Classes focus on continued teaching and encouraging the development of your dog’s natural scenting abilities by using their desire to hunt for food and/or toys, now paired with NACSW competition odors (Birch/Anise/Clove). Searches may be videotaped as part of the educational process. Dogs are worked one at a time and must be crated between activities.  Dogs may be introduced to indoor settings, outdoor settings, and vehicles in addition to continuing work with containers/boxes.  Note:  One dog per handler.  Volunteer Requirement: Beginning with the Winter 2026 semester, there will be a volunteer requirement noted above in this section.  *Class Dates:  Jan. 7, Jan. 21, Feb. 4, 18, Mar. 4, Mar. 18.  Front Training Room.

[NW201] ORT/NW1 Preparation K9 Nose Work©. - FULL  Instructors: Sue Cox, CNWI, Jacqueline Reardon, CNWI.  6 Weeks.  This class is for dogs that already know K9 Nose Work competition odors (Birch, Anise, Clove).  The instruction provided in this class will follow the methods and foundation of K9 Nose Work©.  Class content will concentrate on continued search technique refinement and handling.    Searches may be videotaped as part of the educational process. Dogs are worked one at a time and must be crated between activities.  Containers will be emphasized for ORT preparation.  Additionally, indoor and outdoor settings as well as vehicles will be used. Prerequisites: Completion of NW 102 Intro to Odor and approval by the Nose Work instructional team.  Note:  One dog per handler. Volunteer Requirement: Beginning with the Winter 2026 semester, there will be a volunteer requirement noted above in this section. *Class Dates: Jan. 15, Jan. 29, Feb. 12, Feb. 26, Mar. 12, plus one travel class which will be on a weekend — to be determined.  Front Training Room, Loading Dock.

[NW301] NW2 K9 Nose Work©. - FULL Instructors: Jacqueline Reardon CNWI, Sue Cox, CNWI.  6 Weeks.  This class is for dogs that already know scent work. The instruction provided in this class will follow the methods and foundation of K9 Nose Work©. Class content will concentrate on continued search technique refinement and handling. Searches may be videotaped as part of the educational process. Dogs are worked one at a time and must be crated between activities. Indoor and outdoor settings and vehicles may be used. Prerequisites:  Completion of ORT title and NW1 title (or equivalent) and approval by the Nose Work instructional team.  Note: One dog per handler.  Volunteer Requirement: Beginning with the Winter 2026 semester, there will be a volunteer requirement noted above in this section. *Class Dates:  Jan. 7, Jan. 21, Feb. 4, Feb. 18, Mar. 4, plus one travel class which will be on a weekend – to be determined.  Front Training Room, Loading Dock.

[NW401] NW3 K9 Nose Work©. - FULL Instructors: Jacqueline Reardon, CNWI, Sue Cox, CNWI.  6 Weeks. This class is for teams who are working on their NW3 or NW3-Elite titles. The instruction provided in this class will follow the methods and foundation of K9 Nose Work©.   Class content will concentrate on continued search technique refinement and handling. Searches may be videotaped as part of the educational process.  Indoor and outdoor settings and vehicles may be used.  Dogs are worked one at a time and must be crated between activities.  Prerequisites:  Attainment of the NW2 title (or equivalent) and approval by the Nose Work instructional team.  Note:  One dog per handler. Volunteer Requirement: Beginning with the Winter 2026 semester, there will be a volunteer requirement noted above in this section. *Class Dates: Jan. 14, Jan. 28, Feb. 11, Feb. 25, Mar. 11, plus one travel class which will be on a weekend – to be determined.  Front Training Room, Loading Dock.

 

[NW601A] Elite/Summit Run Through. Instructors: Sue Cox, CNWI, Jacqueline Reardon, CNWI.

Students competing at the Elite and Summit levels will have the opportunity to run 2-3 searches. Prerequisites:  Attainment of the NW3-ELT title and approval by the Nose Work instructional team. If the class does not fill, teams with at least one NW3 title may be added at the discretion of the instructor(s). The instructional team will maintain a wait list for these teams.  Note:  One dog per handler per class.  Location TBD – information will be provided to registered teams.  

[NW601B] Elite/Summit Run Through. Instructors: Sue Cox, CNWI, Jacqueline Reardon, CNWI.

Students competing at the Elite and Summit levels will have the opportunity to run 2-3 searches. Prerequisites:  Attainment of the NW3-ELT title and approval by the Nose Work instructional team. If the class does not fill, teams with at least one NW3 title may be added at the discretion of the instructor(s). The instructional team will maintain a wait list for these teams.  Note:  One dog per handler per class.  Location TBD – information will be provided to registered teams. 

NEW! [EL NW901] Games & Fun. - FULL Instructor: Jessica Daggit, CNWI. 3 Weeks. This daytime mini class is for dogs that already know K9 Nose Work© odors (Birch, Anise, Clove). All levels are welcome. The instruction provided in this class will follow the methods of K9 Nose Work© and the Dog Driven Search. This class is all about letting your dog follow their nose for the sheer joy of it. Expect laughter, creativity, and plenty of fun. Dogs are worked one at a time and must be crated in handlers’ vehicles between activities. Class is indoor only. Note: One dog per handler. *Class Dates: Dec. 4, Dec. 11, Dec. 18.  Front Training Room.

NEW! [EL NW902] Dog-Driven Search. Instructor: Jessica Daggit, CNWI. 3 Weeks. This daytime mini class is for dogs that already know K9 Nose Work© odors (Birch, Anise, Clove). All levels are welcome. The instruction provided in this class will follow the methods of K9 Nose Work© and the Dog Driven Search. Dog Driven Search prioritizes letting the dog take the lead, rather than directing the dog and also prioritizes dogs' naturally problem-solving odor. The handler’s role is to observe, support, and respond to the dog’s communication and movement while being part of the team without interrupting the dog’s focus. Leash skills and handler body language are emphasized. Dogs are worked one at a time and must be crated in handler’s vehicle between activities. Class is indoor only. Note: One dog per handler. *Class Dates: Jan. 7, Jan. 14, Jan. 21.  Front Training Room.

DOG SPORTS PREPARATION 

[AG050] Foundations for Dog Sports. - FULL  Instructors: Margaret McDowell, Bethany Pontier, Carol Carr, Kim Culp, and Chelsy Thompson.  10 weeks.  This class is for dogs aged 6 months & up who have graduated from a Basic Obedience class. Dogs will be introduced to the basic relationship building and foundation skills needed to be competitive in timed, physically active dog sports such as agility, flyball, rally, and disc dog. Foundation training includes board & target training; fitness training; impulse control games; drive games with recalls and sends; emphasizing tugging as a reward; rear-end awareness and body coordination exercises. Dogs can and should be entered in this class at a young age (although it is reasonable to expect very young dogs to rotate through it twice to expose them to each foundation exercise twice during their “puppy brain” stage). This class is primarily taught using a clicker to shape behaviors. Students will be exposed to a variety of "proofing" techniques to improve their dog’s performance. Graduation criteria: (1) ability to hold a "stay" position with handler at least 10' away; (2) dog exhibits body control coordination through demonstration of class exercises; (3) dog can stay focused on handler while working around other dogs in low arousal situations; (4) dog sends around an object from at least 6' away; (5) Handler exhibits understanding of training principles; including the 3 D’s for proofing, using a clicker for shaping behaviors, and handling/engaging with your dog. Students planning to move ahead to Agility 1 have the additional criteria of (1) Dog actively engages with a toy, viewing it as a reward; (2) dog is comfortable getting on the travel board with all four feet and turning around; and (3) ideally dog will target a toy and return it to handler.  Prerequisite: Verification of graduation from Basic Obedience class, a CGC certificate or a completed evaluation by an Agility instructor. Note: The first night of class is required for participation in the course. Dogs do not come to the first night of class. Agility Ring.

 

AGILITY

IMPORTANT: All dogs participating in agility must be physically sound & at an appropriate weight. Keep your dog's nails trimmed & keep hair around the feet trimmed to prevent slipping on the equipment. If your dog has hair falling in his eyes, tie it back with a rubber band or small barrette. Dogs with underlying health problems, including but not limited to hip & elbow dysplasia, cardiovascular disease, epilepsy, vision, or other health problems that limit endurance, balance, or motor control should not participate in agility without consultation with a veterinarian who is familiar with agility.  It is suggested that owners not sign their dogs up for agility classes until the dog is at least 12 months old.  Timing, however, is an issue with our structured start dates. If you wish to enroll a dog that will be younger than 12 months at the start of class, you must submit a waiver & request permission of the agility training director.  

Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who will remain in the building throughout the class.  Registration for agility classes is contingent upon instructor evaluation & approval of dog/handler teams as deemed necessary by the class instructor.  Participants must be approved by instructor.

Introductory Agility Courses

BRING YOUR RABIES INFORMATION TO THE FIRST CLASS.  For questions, please contact the Registrar, by email RegistrarODTC@gmail.com.

The classes in this section focus on introducing/teaching obstacle performance.  Students will learn how to define successful criteria for performance of the obstacles as well as the basic groundwork needed for the handling skills to be covered in more advanced classes.  These classes start with dogs that have never seen, or have had only limited exposure to, agility equipment as well as dogs that have not reached acceptable obstacle performance levels.  

NOTE: The progression of classes is expected to be as follows:  Start with Foundations for Dog Sports for 1 or 2 sessions depending on the age of the dog, then move into the Agility 1, followed by Agility 2. Handlers and dogs continue their training with Agility 3, Skills classes and Coursework.  

***IMPORTANT***All participants in the Introductory Level Agility Program are required to work one day at one agility trial sponsored by ODTC during each semester they attend classes at ODTC. Instructors will provide students with trial information at the beginning of each semester.  In addition to meeting the skill requirements for each class, participation at a trial is required to move up a level. If you do not meet the criteria for a class, you must schedule an individual assessment and/or receive written permission from the instructor before classes begin.  You may register for classes prior to the assessments, but you must pass the skill level assessment to participate.

[AG100] Agility 1. Instructors: Cris Fitchitt, Lynda Folwick, Elizabeth Warren, and Marcia Kibby, Assistant: Galena Kuiper. 10 weeks. This course is intended to introduce dogs to the agility obstacles and to introduce handlers to the training methods for achieving safe, confident, and competent obstacle performance as well as a good working relationship allowing for off leash agility performance. Emphasis will be given to establishing a foundation for independent obstacle performance. Classes will be divided by gating into multiple workstations. Dogs must be capable of working with other dogs working at the same time. By the end of the session dogs should: have a good understanding of the 2on/2off end behavior without requiring a target; be able to drive to the end of the teeter with at least a 16” drop; drive through a partially closed weave channel with good footwork and speed irrespective of handler position; perform a four-jump grid with the handler in a variety of positions; send to a straight or curved tunnel; and send to and stay on a table. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Foundations for Dog Sports or permission of Instructor. Agility Foundations for Puppies does not qualify for admission into Agility 1. Note: This class is run at the same time as Flyball and there may be excessive noise. Agility Ring.

[AG110] Agility 2.  Instructors: Cindy Deubler, Meredith Wilson, Dale Martins, and Celia Fernandez, Assistant: Jessica Lewis. 10 weeks. This course builds on the training and skills taught in AG1. By the end of this session, dogs should be transferring end behaviors to contacts, including the teeter; jumping full height jumps in a variety of patterns; and performing closed weaves with good speed and footwork after entering independently from a variety of angles irrespective of handler position. The team should be able to perform short sequences of tunnels and jumps, including special jumps, with the handler executing basic crosses as needed.  Note: This class is run at the same time as Flyball and there may be excessive noise.  Prerequisite: Successful completion of AG100 or permission of the instructor.  Agility Ring.

[AG140] Agility 3.- FULL  Instructors: Terry Herman and Heather Ortega. 8 weeks. This class is intended for those not quite ready to graduate from AG2. Emphasis will be given to achieving consistent contact and weave performance meeting established criteria and fading aids. Basic handling skills and verbals will also be covered, as well as jump commitment and basic jump patterns. Note: Priority is given to students from the 2025 Agility 2 and Agility 3 Fall classes. There will be no class February 19th.  Agility Ring.

Core Agility Courses

[AG300] Pre-Competition - Skills Handling. - FULL  Instructors: Janet Gauntt and Beth Bond.  10 weeks. This level is for dog and handler teams who are ready to train for competition. Basic handling maneuvers, identifying lines and angles of approach and exit, and discriminations will be among the concepts taught, as well as continuing to build obstacle performance. Prerequisites: Successful completion of the Agility 2/3, or by permission of the instructors. Note: Students may not take this class more than two times. Full Arena.

[AG582] Novice Handling Sequences. Instructor: Rebecca Hill. 10 weeks. This course is intended for those starting to compete at the Novice level. It will focus on improving obstacle performance, refining handling skills, the basics of course analysis, and the basics of competition rules and requirements. Dogs should consistently meet handler criteria on all obstacles without training aids, and teams should be able to sequence at least 12-14 obstacles, including contacts and weaves. Agility Ring.

[AG580] Open/Advanced Handling Sequences. Instructors: Ken Briefel. 10 weeks. This course is intended for those who have completed Novice Standard titles and are currently at the Advanced/Open/CPE 3 Standard levels. The goal is to refine handling skills and techniques, including proper use and placement of a variety of crosses and maneuvers, transitioning between obstacle and handler focus, handling common jump patterns, and determining the best dog path and how to handle to get it. The class will also cover the training and use of verbal cues. Prerequisites: Dogs should consistently meet handler criteria on all obstacles without training aids. Handlers should have a basic understanding of the mechanics of front, blind, and rear crosses. Teams should be able to sequence at least 12-14 obstacles, including contacts and weaves. The instructor reserves the right to dismiss students who don’t meet these prerequisites. Note: Students may not take this class more than two times. Agility Ring.

Elective Agility Courses

We welcome new ideas for electives.  Please talk to the Agility training director or board members if you have an idea for an elective.

[EL AG535] Contact and Weave Skills. - FULL  Instructors: Darlene Paul, Gayle Lape, and Betsy Flagg.  10 Weeks.  This class is being offered for people that have the desire to dive deep into the solid foundation of doing stopped contacts and work toward independent weaves using the guide wire channel method. Contact work will start with going through the different levels of travel board work and possibly adding in stairs. Running A-frame training may also be covered if handler and instructor feel it is the right option for that dog. Introductory training on equipment will be covered for those that meet the criteria. All dogs will be started on the teeter which will cover the 2-table method working up to a full height teeter with drop. If class does not fill with students that are looking to work at this level, other students interested that might be farther along will be considered with approval of instructor.Agility Ring.

[EL AG537] Excellent/Master Strategy & Execution  - FULL Instructor: Reese Spindle. 10 Weeks.

This class is designed for teams training in or competing at the AKC Excellent/Masters level, USDAA Masters level, or CPE Level 5 (or by permission of the instructor), who want to improve course analysis, sharpen handling skills, increase speed, and fine-tune obstacle performance. Across the 10-week session, teams will work through a mix of skill-focused drills and/or course setups to reinforce advanced handling fundamentals. Areas of focus will include challenges commonly seen in Excellent/Master/Level 5 courses, such as discriminations; front, blind, and rear crosses; wraps, serpentines, pinwheels, 180s, 270s; distance challenges; and other advanced handling maneuvers. Emphasis will be placed on identifying the dog’s path, making confident handling choices, developing independence, and strengthening communication through intentional motion and timely verbal cues to create smoother, more efficient runs. Agility Ring.

[EL AG538] Fancy Moves!.  Instructor: Terry Herman.  10 Weeks.  This class is intended for those wanting to learn how to deal with some of the challenging patterns and maneuvers found in higher level courses. Drills will be set up to develop handling skills and strategies for managing a variety of challenges including, but not limited to, threadle wraps, challenging weave entries, layering, and discriminations. Drills may involve long sequences with repeated challenges, but this is not a coursework class. This class is intended for those currently running at the AKC/USDAA Masters, CPE Level C, or UKI Senior/Champion levels or by permission of the instructor. Note: This class will be eligible for drop-ins if there’s an open spot. Please contact Terry Herman (tdherman2@aol.com) for permission to attend a specific week. Drop-in fees are as follows and will be collected at the start of class: $22NM/$17TM/$11CM. Agility Ring. 

[EL AG538-AUDIT] Fancy Moves! AUDIT ONLY. Instructor: Terry Herman.  10 Weeks.  This class is intended for those wanting to learn how to deal with some of the challenging patterns and maneuvers found in higher level courses. Drills will be set up to develop handling skills and strategies for managing a variety of challenges including, but not limited to, threadle wraps, challenging weave entries, layering, and discriminations. Drills may involve long sequences with repeated challenges, but this is not a coursework class. Note: This is an AUDIT ONLY class. Auditors may not bring dogs to class..Agility Ring. 

[EL AG539] Distance Training.  Instructor: Jean Wilkins.  10 Weeks.  Want to improve your distance handling with your dog? Want more distance between you and your dog on course? Want to get a better understanding of how to handle gambles, fast sends, chance runs? Want to learn how to plan for your dog to gather game points and set yourself up for a better approach to the distance elements? In this class, you will learn and practice distance skills. Prerequisite: Dogs need to have some independence on obstacles, must be able to seek obstacles on their own, be proficient on all equipment (learning obstacles is not the focus of this class), and must be able to do the obstacles without being escorted. Note: One dog per handler. Agility Ring.

[EL AG521] Use Your Words!. - FULL Instructor: Terry Herman. 10 Weeks. This class will cover basic verbal commands useful at all levels of agility. It will help define the terms, cover ways to teach and proof them, and identify the physical cues needed to support them. The class will use jumps and tunnels only. Dogs must be willing to send forward over a jump or into a tunnel ahead of the handler. Students may not take this class more than two times unless it is not filled 24 hours after registration opens for Non-Members. Agility Ring.

[EL AG521-AUDIT] Use Your Words! AUDIT ONLY. Instructor: Terry Herman. 10 Weeks. This class will cover basic verbal commands useful at all levels of agility. It will help define the terms, cover ways to teach and proof them, and identify the physical cues needed to support them. The class will use jumps and tunnels only. Dogs must be willing to send forward over a jump or into a tunnel ahead of the handler. Note: This is an AUDIT ONLY class. Auditors may not bring dogs to class. Agility Ring.

[AG573] Building Jumping Skills & Drive.- CANCELLED Instructor: Cindy Deubler.  10 weeks. Work on skills at the basic level to help your dog look at jumps as a fun thing to do. Exercises will primarily consist of open sequences to build speed and work lines, but may include one-jump work as well. Only jumps and tunnels will be used. An opportunity for dogs needing jump focus and working lines independently. Prerequisites: Successful completion of AG100 or permission of the instructor. Note: Students may not take this class more than two times unless it has not filled 24 hours after registration opens for Non-Members. Agility Ring.

[EL AG540] Privates - Mondays & Wednesdays.  Instructor: Terry Herman. 1-hr lesson. Oriole Instructor Terry Herman is offering one-hour privates and semi-privates running from 9am-4pm. Privates can be tailored to deal with particular problems or challenges or aimed at improving overall teamwork and handling for teams already competing or about to compete in agility trials. It’s also possible to share an hour with a friend working at the same level or dealing with the same issues. Online registration will only add your name to the list provided to the instructor; it doesn’t guarantee a slot. Once a month the instructor will email available dates and times for the following month to those who’ve registered and request their preferred dates and times. In scheduling, priority will be given to the preferred dates and times of Oriole Lifetime/Contributing Members, then Training Members, and then Non-Members. Money will be collected the day of the lesson. As with all Oriole classes, all class fees go to the club. Prerequisite: Privates are not appropriate for dogs and handlers wanting to begin agility training. They are intended for dog and handler teams ready to start competing or already competing. Dogs must be able to perform all equipment in accordance with established performance criteria. Note: If you are currently on Terry's list and receiving her emails about scheduling Private lessons, there is no need to register again. Agility Ring.

Agility Seminars and Workshops

Check Oriole's website for a complete list and updates - Seminars

 

IMPORTANT: All dogs participating in flyball must be physically sound & at an appropriate weight. Keep your dog's nails trimmed & keep hair around the feet trimmed to prevent slipping. If your dog has hair falling in his eyes, tie it back with a rubber band or small barrette. Dogs with underlying health problems, including but not limited to hip & elbow dysplasia, cardiovascular disease, epilepsy, vision, or other health problems that limit endurance, balance, or motor control should not participate in flyball without consultation with a veterinarian who is familiar with flyball.  It is suggested that owners not sign their dogs up for flyball classes until the dog is at least 12 months old.  Timing, however, is an issue with our structured start dates.  If you wish to enroll a dog that will be younger than 12 months at the start of class, you must submit a waiver & request permission of the flyball training director.  Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who will remain in the building throughout the class.

Introductory Flyball Courses

[FB100] Beginner Flyball. Instructors: Lauralee McGuire and Judith Hoffman.  10 Weeks.  This class is for those who want to learn the sport.  Dogs should be proficient in basic obedience & be under control in the presence of other dogs.  This course is NOT an entry class for the competition course.   Prerequisite: Basic obedience. Main Ring 1 & 2.

[FB110] Beginner Flyball. Instructor: Kate Bobb.  7 Weeks.  This class is for those who want to learn the sport.  Dogs should be proficient in basic obedience & be under control in the presence of other dogs.  This course is NOT an entry class for the competition course.   Prerequisite: Basic obedience.*Class Dates: Jan. 9, 16, Feb. 6, 20, 27, Mar 6, 13. Main Ring 1 & 2.

Core Flyball Courses

[FB300] Competition Flyball.  Instructors: Lauralee McGuire and Judith Hoffman. 10 Weeks.  We will be overlapping the beginner class to give the green dogs an experienced dog to work against. Dogs will refine skills and increase speed and work in a team.  Prerequisite:  Beginner flyball or permission of instructor.  Main Ring 1 & 2.

[FB310] Friday Flyball.  Instructor: Kate Bobb.  7 Weeks.  This is a class open to dogs with intermediate & advanced skills. Less experienced dogs or handlers will start to work alongside seasoned dogs & team members.  Dogs will refine skills & increase speed & work in a team. Prerequisite:  Beginner flyball or permission of instructor. *Class Dates: Jan. 9, Jan. 16, Feb. 6, Feb. 20, Feb. 27, Mar. 6, Mar. 13.  Location:  Main Ring 1 & 2.

TRACKING 

All tracking classes are held outside for 2 to 4 hours. Students learn to track their dogs, lay track, and from other students working their dogs. All dogs and handlers must be fit enough to walk for one mile.

[TR105] Beginning Tracking. - FULL Instructors: Linda Hulbert and Leanne Smith.  6 Weeks.  This class emphasizes building a partnership bond with your dog while having a great time outdoors in nature doing something dogs are naturally gifted at and love to do. The class develops the foundation concepts & techniques for the AKC Tracking Dog Test including understanding scent, designing tracks to develop tracking dogs with motivation, confidence, and skills, and developing handler support skills. The course may be repeated to build capabilities for beginners. Classes may be rescheduled for inclement weather.  Note: One dog per handler. *Class Dates: Mar. 6, Mar. 20, Apr. 3, Apr. 17, May 1, May 15. Location: Outside at Freedom Park, Sykesville, MD. 

[TR115] Beginning Tracking. - FULL Instructors: Kristi Eisenberg and Allison Shinwari. 6 Weeks.  This class emphasizes building a partnership bond with your dog while having a great time outdoors in nature, doing something dogs are naturally gifted at and love to do. The class develops the foundation concepts and techniques for the AKC Tracking Dog Test, including understanding scent, designing tracks to develop tracking dogs with motivation, confidence, and skills, and developing handler support skills. There will be optional Zoom meetings and notes to introduce fieldwork activities. The course may be repeated to build capabilities for beginners. Classes are rescheduled for inclement weather. Note: One dog per handler. *Class Dates: Feb. 28, Mar. 7, Mar. 21, Mar. 28, Apr. 11, Apr. 25. Optional Zoom Meetings: Wednesdays before field classes, 7:30 pm.  Location: Outside at Fair Hill NRMA, Elkton, MD.

[TR205] Advanced Beginning Tracking.  Instructor: Linda Hulbert.  6 Weeks This class emphasizes the skills needed to pass the certification test for entry in a tracking test. Bring materials to draw maps. Students will work together by laying tracks for each other. Prerequisite: Having taken at least 2 sessions of Beginning Tracking or approval of instructor. Classes may be rescheduled for inclement weather. Note: One dog per handler.  *Class Dates: Mar. 6, Mar. 20, Apr. 3, Apr. 17, May 1, May 15. Location:  Outside at Freedom Park, Sykesville, MD.

  

CONFORMATION

[EL C600] Conformation.  Instructor: Paula Waterman.   8 weeks.  In this class, you and your dog will be introduced to ring procedure, ring patterns, stacking, gaiting, and judging criteria. Emphasis will be based on positive reinforcement techniques, including shaping with some clicker training. By the end of class, the handler and dog should be able to enter a conformation show with confidence and experience.  Prerequisites:  Dogs must be at least 4 months and up if housetrained, have basic manners, and be able to be approached by a stranger, or with permission from the instructor. No people-aggressive or dog-aggressive dogs.  Notes:  Bitches in season will be allowed to attend class in panties. A minimum of 3 students must register for this class to be held.  Main Ring 1, Front Training Room.