General Notes to competitors Before attempting the course the beginner must pass the control test, which is merely a simple demonstration to satisfy the judge that the dog is well under control. If the dog fails this test it must under go more practise before attempting the control test again. This is an entry qualification and not part of the score. WEAVE The dog or the cart should not hit the cones. Allow plenty of clearance so that the cart wheels are clear of the cones. |
CHICANE 1 / WIDE SIDE Dog and Wheels should not touch the sides nor the dog step on or over the sides. The handler may walk inside or out side the edges of the chicane. It is preferable not to approach the chicane at an angle. LOAD The dog may stand, sit or lie down, handler may lean over cart or walk round. POND Handler may walk across the plastic sheet or walk around it. BRIDGE The dog or cart wheels should not touch the sides, two wheels outside will result in 5 marks lost. HALT The handler must approach the halt without faltering or stopping short, doing so will result in the loss of 2 marks. The front wheels must stop between the metal strips. The dog and cart must remain stationary for 10 seconds. If the wheels move, marks are lost in proportion to the time the wheels are stationary. UNLOAD The same rules as for the load. CHICANE1 / WIDE SIDE Return through the same side of the chicane, again lining the cart up. WEAVE Return back through the way you came. TROT TO FINISH Controlled trot to the finish line to show change of pace.. EASE OF CONTROL This gives a large proportion of the marks and can make the difference between places. Tightness of lead, dragging the dog through the obstacle, etc. must all be taken into account. |
The Bernese Mountain Dog Working Cart Group of GB |
Beginners Course |
