Oriole Dog Training Club Schedule of Classes
Spring 2023

Please review the COVID statement and waiver
on our main Club Express page.

                                                                                                           Registration Info & Policies

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

Introductory Obedience Classes

 

[OB101] Puppy Kindergarten. Instructor:  Rachel Lachow. 6 weeks. For puppies 14 weeks to 6 months old. Emphasis on positive socialization to people and other puppies, environmental surroundings and contacts. General behavior topics will include crate training, housetraining, reading body language, and reducing nipping and jumping. We will focus on skills like attention to owner, loose leash walking, rear end awareness, good play and greeting skills with dogs and people, sit, down, come, wait, even tricks! This is a “food” reward-based class. Notes:  1) At least 4 dogs must be registered for class to be held. 2) Bring current rabies certificate for puppies over 4 months to the first night of class. Puppies attend the first class.  Front training room.

[OB105A] Basic Obedience. FULL Instructor: Tamalee Kramp. 7 weeks.  This class is for puppies older than six months and adult dogs that are just starting their training or need a refresher.  The course will introduce dogs to all the basic obedience commands such as sit, down, stand, come, off, and loose-leash walking.  In addition, we will practice the commands with real life training exercises, such as not bolting through the door when opened and park bench manners, etc.  This is a “food” reward-based class. Priority:  priority registration is given to students graduating from the prior session of Puppy Kindergarten [OB101] or Star Puppy [OB102].   Notes:  1) At least 3 dogs must be registered for class to be held.  2) The FIRST day of class, please come WITHOUT your dog & with a copy of your dog’s Rabies certificate.  Main Ring 1.

[OB105B] Basic Obedience. FULL Instructor: Francine Bethea. 7 weeks.  This class is for puppies older than six months and adult dogs that are just starting their training or need a refresher.  The course will introduce dogs to all the basic obedience commands such as sit, down, stand, come, off, and loose-leash walking.  In addition, we will practice the commands with real life training exercises, such as not bolting through the door when opened and park bench manners, etc.  This is a “food” reward-based class.  Priority:  priority registration is given to students graduating from the prior session of Puppy Kindergarten [OB101] or Star Puppy [OB102].  Notes:  1) At least 3 dogs must be registered for class to be held.  2) The FIRST day of class, please come WITHOUT your dog & with a copy of your dog’s Rabies certificate.  Main Ring 2.

[OB110] Continuing Basic with AKC CGC and Tricks. FULL  Instructor: Dana Hoppes & Debby Brannan, Assistants:  Kara O’Connor and Ashley Donaldson.  8 weeks.  This class is intended for puppies older than 8 months and adult dogs.  Dog reactive dogs are not allowed in this class.  In this class we will cover all of the Canine Good Citizen exercises to prepare you for the CGC test.  The students will be taught how to train and handle their dog to successfully complete each of the CGC exercises. Additionally, tricks will be taught to prepare your dog for the Novice Trick Dog Test.  At the eighth week of class an AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test and the AKC Novice Trick Dog test will be offered (date to be announced in class).  Prerequisites:  This class is open to dogs that have a sound temperament and clear understanding of the basic exercises, dogs owned by handlers with recent Basic obedience training or dogs that have been evaluated by the instructor.  Priority:  will be given to OB105 (A/B/C) students that were given approval from the instructor to move up to OB110 class.  Main Ring 1.

 

[OB111] AKC Urban CGCU and AKC Community Canine Class.  Instructors: Judi Ruff and Russ Bobb. 8 weeks.   This class is intended for dogs that have their AKC Canine Good Citizen title.  The 10 test exercises will be practiced and taught in greater detail to prepare your dog for the Urban CGCU and the AKC Community Canine test.  Testing: Week 7 the AKC Community Canine test will be offered. Week 8 the AKC Urban CGCU test will be offered (date and location to be announced in class).  Main Ring 1.

[OB110A] Continuing Basic with AKC CGC and Tricks.  Instructors: Judi Ruff and Russ Bobb. 8 weeks.  This class is intended for puppies older than 8 months and adult dogs.  Dog reactive dogs are not allowed in this class.  In this class we will cover all of the Canine Good Citizen exercises to prepare you for the CGC test.  The students will be taught how to train and handle their dog to successfully complete each of the CGC exercises. Additionally, tricks will be taught to prepare your dog for the Novice Trick Dog Test.  At the eighth week of class an AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test and the AKC Novice Trick Dog test will be offered (date to be announced in class).  Prerequisites:  This class is open to dogs that have a sound temperament and clear understanding of the basic exercises, dogs owned by handlers with recent Basic obedience training or dogs that have been evaluated by the instructor.  Note:  Priority will be given to OB105 (A/B/C) students that were given approval from the instructor to move up to OB110 class.  Main Ring 1.

 

Core Obedience Classes

[OB321] Transition to Off Leash Heeling & Proofing.  FULL Instructors: Sue Carlton and Debbie Kaminski.  7 weeks. This class follows the [OB209] Novice Foundations Part II class in the Novice program. This class will prepare your dog for the “Fine Tuning exercises and Handling Skills class that is next in the progression. Additional skills and techniques will be taught to effectively transition your dog to off leash heeling and improve their attention and motivation in the ring. Including problem solving heeling for competing in Novice thru Utility. In the ring, each team will work individually and within groups. Open to dog/handler teams preparing for competition. A questionnaire may be emailed to the students before the first class. Prerequisite: Completion of OB209 and/or evaluated by instructor before class starts. Priority:  will be given to dogs who attended OB209, Winter 2023 class.  Note: After completing this class the next class in the Novice progression is OB412 Fine Tuning exercises and Handling Skills. Main Ring 2.

[OB210] Advanced Novice.  Instructor: Barry Palmer.  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 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 OB208/9 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.  Priority: will be given to dogs who attended OB210, OB321. NOTE: Registered dogs may not attend any other ODTC obedience classes during the same semester (attending a Run Thru, Rally or Transition class is permitted).  Main Ring 1.  

[OB340] Beginning Open.  Instructor: Pat Kavanagh.  10 Weeks.  This class is intended for teams that are starting the Open exercises and planning to compete in Open.  All of the Open exercises will be started at the beginner level and broken down into basic steps.  Motivational methods will be used with an emphasis on building a solid foundation for each exercise to develop the confidence in the dog/handler as a team. Prerequisites: Completion of the OB209 or OB210 classes and/or evaluated by instructor before class starts. Priority: will be given to the OB209 and OB210 students. NOTE: Registered dogs may not attend any other ODTC obedience Open or Utility classes during the same semester (attending a Run Thru, Transition or Rally class is permitted).   Main Ring 2.

[OB341] Intermediate Open with Proofing.  FULL Instructor: Pat Kavanagh. 10 Weeks.  This class is intended for teams that need to fine tune the exercises in Open and those planning to compete in Open.  Motivational methods will be used with an emphasis on fine tuning each exercise and proofing as needed to develop the dog/handler confidence in the ring.  Prerequisites: Completion of the OB340 class and/or evaluated by instructor before class starts.  Priority: will be given to the OB340 students. NOTE: Registered dogs may not attend any other ODTC obedience Open or Utility classes during the same semester (attending a Run Thru, Proofing or Rally class is permitted).   Main Ring 2.

[OB345] Advance Open/Beginning Utility. Instructors: Elaine O’Carroll / Val Earwood. 10 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. Priority: will be given to students from our Winter 2023 obedience class. All others must receive approval from the instructor before registering for this class.  Note:  Registered dogs may not attend more than one ODTC obedience Open or Utility class including all daytime & evening classes (attending a Run Thru or Rally class is permitted).    Main Rings 1 & 2.

 

[OB402] Beginning Utility.  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.  Priority: will be given to students who completed OB341 or OB345.  Others must have permission from the instructor.   Note: Registered dogs may not attend more than one ODTC obedience open or utility class including all daytime & evening classes (attending a Run Thru or Rally class is permitted). Main Ring 1. 

[OB471] AKC Rally - Instructional Novice.  Instructor: Dianne Harab.  8 Weeks.  This class is an introduction to AKC Rally obedience. Topics covered include the basics of the sport, how to read course maps, and correct performance of rally signs focusing on the Novice level.  Considerable class time will be spent on helping the handler and dog learn to move as a team in performing each station’s requirements with the dog heeling through the course on a loose leash.  Additionally, the students will have the opportunity to run their dog through several Rally courses. Prerequisite: Completion of OB110/111 Advanced Basic class or OB208 Novice Foundations, Part 1 before entry into this class. Others must have permission from the instructor, limit 3.  Instructor Note:  Ring setup begins at 11:30a.m.  Main Rings 1 & 2.

[OB470] AKC Rally - Novice, Advanced & Excellent Run-Thrus.  FULL Instructor: Michele Long, Assistants: Andra Shanley and Cris Fitchitt.  8 wks.  Work is on-leash for Novice and off-leash for Advanced and Excellent dogs. There will be 2 rings with signs and jumps set up to run at all three levels. Generally students will get 4 run-thrus, 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.  Note: Limit ONE dog per handler. If class does not fill, a second dog per handler will be considered. Approval of the instructor is required.  Drop in Students will be required to contact the instructor before joining the class. Main Rings 1 & 2.

Note:  Ring setup begins at 5:30pm. No other classes can be booked in the rings at 5:30.

Elective Obedience Classes

[EL OB205] Obedience Run-Thrus.   Instructor: Mary Anne Dressler. Part time Asst:  Katie Meyer.  10 Weeks.  This class will offer all levels of obedience exercises in a run-thru format.  Handlers will rotate through all positions - judge, steward & distracters.  Open to dog/handler teams preparing to enter competition. Note: This is not an instructional class. Main Rings 1 & 2.

[EL OB414] Open Ring Run Thrus.  Instructors: Louise Griffin & Marcia Bresson, Jane Terry.  8 weeks.  This is not a basic instructional class, attendees should be proficient at their competition level.  All competition levels may attend. 

Attendees will have use of the ring and equipment for one half hour. Time slots will be assigned for each date and rotated during the session.  Oversight will be provided by Louise Griffin or Marcia Bresson and occasionally Jane Terry. Both rings will be used simultaneously.  Main Rings 1 & 2.

Class limit:

8

Start: April 5

Day/Time:

Wed. 9am-11am

Fee:

$96NM/$72TM/$48CM

DOG SPORTS PREPARATION 

[AG050] Foundations for Dog Sports.  FULL Instructors: Margaret McDowell and Susan Rosenvold. 10 weeks. This class is for dogs aged 5 1/2 months & up who have graduated from a Basic Obedience or Puppy Kindergarten 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 (althoug8h 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 and (2) dog assumes and maintains four-feet on position on a travel board.  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

 

K9 Nosework© Classes

  

[NW103] Introduction to Odor/Anise/K9 Nose Work©.  Instructors:  Sue Cox, ANWI and Jacqueline Reardon, CNWI.  6 Weeks. This is the next sequence in the program for dog/handler teams who have completed NW 102 - NW Introduction to Odor/Birch/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 the second of the NACSW competition odors (Anise). 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.  Class Dates:  April 6, April 20, May 4, May 18, June 1, & June 15 Location: Front TR, Loading Dock, Office, Hall

Class limit: 7      Start:      April 6      Day/Time:  Thurs. 6-7:30p  Fee: $120NM/$90TM/$60CM

[NW201] ORT/NW1 Preparation K9 Nose Work©. FULL Instructors:  Sue Cox, ANWI and 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 & 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.  Class Dates:   April 13, April 27, May 11, May 25, June 8, and ONE **Travel Day.   Location: Front Training Room, Loading Dock, Office, Office, Hall

Class limit: 6      Start:      April 13       Day/Time:  Thurs. 6-7:30p  Fee: $120NM/$90TM/$60CM

 

[NW301] NW2 K9 Nose Work©. FULL  Instructor: Jacqueline Reardon CNWI and Sue Cox, ANWI.   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.  Class Dates:  April 12, May 10, May 24, June 7, June 21 and ONE **Travel day.  Note:  One dog per handler.    Location:  Front Training Room, Loading Dock, Office, Office, Hall

Class limit: 6      Start: April 12          Day/Time:  Wed. 6:00-7:30pm  Fee: $120NM/$90TM/$60CM

[NW401] NW3 K9 Nose Work©. FULL  Instructor: Jacqueline Reardon, CNWI and Sue Cox, ANWI.  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.  Class Dates: April 5, May 3, May 17, May 31, June 14 and ONE **Travel day.  Location:  Front Training Room, Loading Dock, Office, Office, Hall

Class limit: 6      Start: April 5 Day/Time: Wed. 6:00-7:30pm     Fee:  $120NM/$90TM/$60CM

 

[NW601] Elite/Summit Run Throughs. Instructors: ODTC Nose work instructional team

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 within 7 days of a class date, 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.  Dates and locations to be announced. If you are interested in this level of travel class/run through, please email Jacqui Reardon, CNWI - jmrmdcpa@verizon.net   Note:  One dog per handler per class.  

Class limit:  6   Fee Per Class:  NM$40/TM$30/CM$20

**Travel Days

Students in NW201, NW301, and NW401 will choose ONE of the travel days (below) as part of the course. Travel class days will take place in community locations as available, locations to be announced. Searches will be tailored to the levels of teams signed up on a particular day and may include containers, exterior and/or vehicle elements.  Note:  One dog per handler.  

Dates/Times:

Saturday 5/27/2023  8:30 am - 10:00 am

Saturday 6/3/2023  8:30 am - 10:00 am

Saturday 6/10/2023  8:30 am - 10:00 am

 

 

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 Registrar, Dana Hoppes by email RegistrarODTC@gmail.com   or phone (410) 804-8675.

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. FULL Instructors: Lorinda McKisson, Barb Novak, Cindy Deubler and Rebecca Sorgenfrei. 10 weeks. This class is for dogs that have never been exposed to agility equipment. Dogs will be introduced to all equipment during this session, including contacts, weaves, and jumps. Graduation criteria: Including, but not limited to—able to work while another dog is working on the other side of the building; have a good stay in front of equipment; demonstrate solid 2 On/2 Off position on the travel board with distance and handler motion; send through a curved tunnel; perform a lowered or table-stabilized teeter; perform jumps independently; drive through open channel weaves. More detailed criteria will be provided in the first class. Prerequisites: Successful completion of Foundations for Dog Sports or permission of Instructor.  Note: This class is run at the same time as Flyball and there may be excessive noise.  Agility Ring

[AG110] Agility 2. FULL  Instructors: Lorinda McKisson, Cindy Deubler and Rebecca Sorgenfrei. 10 weeks. This class will work to build independent obstacle performance with accuracy and speed. Dogs will progress to full height obstacles and equipment. Graduation criteria: Handler must be able to identify their dog’s contact performance for each contact; dog must be able to perform a sequence of obstacles, be able to perform contacts while driving into 2 On/2 Off position on the dog walk and A-frame, drive through a set of 12 weaves, send to tunnels, tire and jumps, and hold a stay on the table. Prerequisites: Successful completion of Agility 1 or by permission of the instructor. Note: Priority is given to students from the prior semester’s Agility 1 class. Note: This class is run at the same time as Flyball and there may be excessive noise.  Agility Ring

[AG110B] Agility 2 Continued. FULL Instructor: Terry Herman. 10 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 referred by instructors from the Agility 2 Winter 2023 class and the AG585 Focus class for students who previously took an AG2 class.  Agility Ring

Core Agility Courses

[AG131] Agility 3 and Above - Jump Patterns & Skills.  Instructor: Terry Herman. 10 weeks. This course will cover common jump patterns like pinwheels, 180s, serpentines, backsides, and how best to handle them.  Emphasis will be placed on obstacle commitment, extension and collection for the dog as well as handling maneuvers and verbals and how to use them appropriately. Prerequisites: Successful completion of Agility 2 or by permission of the instructor. Dogs must be able to perform full-height contacts. Note: Priority is given to graduates from Agility 2 or those having taken an Agility 3 class. Agility Ring

[AG140] Agility 3 and Above - Contacts & Weaves.  Instructor: Terry Herman, Darlene Paul. 10 weeks. Emphasis will be on building independent contact and weave performance that meets established criteria. Short sequences will be used to create different contact and weave approaches and exits, allowing handlers to be in a variety of positions relative to the dog and the obstacles. Aids may be used to ensure contact and weave performance that meets criteria, irrespective of handler position. Class sessions may be designed to concentrate on individual contacts and/or weaves. Open to anyone who wants to do some "remedial" training. Prerequisites: Successful completion of Agility 2 or by permission of the instructor. Note:  Students may not take this class more than two times with the same dog unless there are still openings the last week of registration or by permission of the instructor. Priority is given to students from the prior semester’s Agility 2 class. Agility Ring

[AG300] Pre-Competition - Skills Handling.  Instructor: Janet Gauntt. 8 weeks. This level is for dog and handler teams who are ready to train for competition and/or for advanced handlers who want to continue to work on handling maneuvers. 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 class, dogs currently in competition, or by permission of the instructors. Note:  Students may not take this class more than two times with the same dog unless there are still openings the last week of registration or by permission of the instructor. 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.
   

[AG585] Focus/Connection/Impulse Control/Relaxation Exercises/Games for Your Agility Team. Instructor: Barb Novak. 8 Weeks. Do you want to be able to maintain connection with your dog throughout an entire agility course under trial conditions? Do you want your dog to be able to focus on their agility job with a high level of distractions in the environment? Do you want your dog to be able to self-regulate and have impulse control without you having to constantly impose your control over them? Do you want your dog to be able to find their “off” switch and relax while waiting for their turn to perform while in a highly stimulating atmosphere? If you answered yes to any of these questions, this is the class for your agility team. The first 4 weeks will be spent doing exercises and games on the flat to teach you and your dog the 4 components listed in the class title. The second 4 weeks will take what your team has learned and apply same to simple agility sequences involving mainly jumps and tunnels. Contacts will also be practiced, using either travel boards or obstacles, depending on what level your dog is at in their agility training. Note: This is not a handling or obstacle performance class. Handling maneuvers and obstacles will not be taught. It is solely a class to help create a stronger connection between you and your dog and to give your team the tools needed to help your team navigate highly distracting trial environments without losing that connection.  Prerequisites:  Dogs over 1 year old who can perform agility jumps (don’t have to be full height) and tunnels (straight and curved), being able to sequence 4 to 5 of same. Should have a trained contact behavior on either a travel board and/or contact obstacles with handler having a set criteria for same. Knowledge of basic behaviors, i.e., sit, down, stay and recall. Priority will be given to people that have not taken the class before.  Agility Ring

[EL AG535] Contact and Weave Skills. Instructors: Darlene Paul, Gayle Lape, Betsy Flagg. 
10 Weeks. This class is for handlers to learn to teach a more solid foundation for a 2-on-2-off contact performance and independent weave pole performance using channels and guide wires. All aspects of handling weaves will be covered from the early stages. Foundation work on contact performance will cover detailed targeting techniques, confidence on contacts, more speed into the contact position, and body exercises for the dog to develop more awareness of where his feet are. The “box” method for a running A-frame will also be covered. Note: Instructor to approve all students who register. This class is appropriate for beginner dogs, but also intended for dogs that need to be retrained. Agility Ring

Class limit: 7 Start: April 4 Day/Time: Tues. 1:30-3 pm Fee: 150NM/$112.50TM/$75CM

[EL AG537] Skills and Drills (Masters/Excellent). FULL Instructor: Terry Herman. 10 Weeks. This course will concentrate on more advanced handling skills (backside maneuvers, threadles, bypasses, etc.) and when and how to use them given various obstacle configurations, including international style challenges. Drills will be used to train and practice alternative handling options and determine the fastest, safest, easiest options for each dog and handler team in different situations. It will not include full courses. Prerequisites: Dogs should have AKC AX title, USDAA AAD title; CPE Level 5 or must have permission of the instructor. The instructor reserves the right to remove any team from the class that does not meet the above prerequisite criteria or in the instructor’s opinion is not appropriate for this class. Agility Ring

Class limit: 8 Start: April 4 Day/Time: Tues. 4 -5:30 pm Fee: $150NM/$112.50TM/$75CM

[AG580] Novice/Advanced Handling Sequences.  Instructor: Laurie McClain and Amy Foster. 8 weeks. This level is for dog and handler teams who are competing at the novice level and preparing for the higher levels. This class will focus on introducing advanced handling skills, continuing to build course analysis skills, and introducing course sequences typically run at the advanced levels. Prerequisites: A qualifying score in AKC Novice, USDAA Starters Standard, NADAC Open, or CPE Level 4 Standard, or permission of the Instructor. Handlers must be able to perform all the basic handling moves including front, blind and rear crosses. Note: Multiple dogs per handler are not allowed unless there are still openings the last week of registration.  Agility Ring

[EL AG540A] Privates - Mondays & Wednesdays. Instructor: Terry Herman. 1-hr lesson. Oriole Instructor Terry Herman is offering one-hour privates and semi-privates running from 10am-6pm on most Mondays and 12:30 to 6 pm most Wednesdays. 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. On-line 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 & handlers wanting to begin agility training. They are intended for dog and handler teams ready to start competing or already competing. 

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

Class limit: NA Start: Continuous Day/Time: Mon 10-6pm; Wed 12:30 - 6p  Fee: $100NM/$90TM/$80CM

[EL AG510] Agility Run-Throughs. Instructor: Terry Todesco. This is a drop-in opportunity to work through an agility course. For each run-through, an agility course will be presented for participants to run. A couple different paths will be available. Each participant will be allowed approximately 3 minutes to run the course or practice different skills. Fees will be collected at the start of class. Class Dates: *See schedule on ODTC website.   Agility Ring

Class limit: NA Start: see website Day/Time: Fri., 7-9pm  Fee: $10NM/$7TM/$5CM

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. Instructor: 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.   Prerequisites: Basic obedience. Location:  Main Rings 1 & 2

[FB110] Beginner Flyball. Instructor: Kate Bobb and Rob Novak.  6 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.   Prerequisites: Basic obedience. *CLASS DATES: April 7, 14, 21 May 19, Jun 2, 16

Location:  Main Rings 1 & 2

Core Flyball Course

[FB300] Competition Flyball. Instructors: Sarah Fedder and P Miller. 10 Weeks.  We will be overlapping the beginner class to give the green dogs an experienced dog to work against. Dogs will refine skills & increase speed & work in a team.  Prerequisite:  Beginner flyball or permission of 

instructor.  Location:  Main Rings 1 & 2

[FB310] Friday Flyball. Instructor: Kate Bobb and Rob Novak.    6 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. Prerequisites:  Beginner flyball or permission of instructor.   *CLASS DATES: April 7, 14, 21 May 19, Jun 2, 16.  Location:  Main Rings 1 & 2

 

TRACKING 

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

Registrations for Tracking classes will be accepted online or mail your completed and signed ODTC Registration Form to Registrar: Dana Hoppes, Registrar, 4421 Carroll Manor Road, Baldwin, MD  21013.  Questions: please email Registrar, Dana Hoppes, RegistrarODTC@gmail.com  or Tracking Training Director, Linda Hulbert, domlinckrs@comcast.net.  The ODTC Registration Form is also available on the Oriole’s website.  

There are Beginning Tracking classes (most semesters) for dogs starting tracking for the first time and untitled dogs that need certification.   There are typically two classes for experienced handlers and dogs with TD, VST & TDU Tracking.  

Priority will be given to students from the Winter sessions of Beginning Tracking.

No Tracking classes this Spring

 

 

CONFORMATION

No Conformation classes this Spring