How to Master the First Halt in Utility

The first halt is the most difficult to master for many dogs. Training will help the dog become mentally prepared and alert to body and foot cues when he first comes into the ring. The handler and dog will avoid losing points for a poor sit.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dog
• Leash
• Barrier such as wires, boards or a sidewalk curb

1. Teach halts separately from the heeling at first, combining the commands later.
   

2. Command the dog to perform the first halt sooner during practice than the judge normally calls it in the ring. If the dog is anticipating the halt, he will be mentally ready to do it when the judge actually calls it.

3. Pull the leash straight up to get a straight sit. If you pull the leash across your body when you sit the dog, he will rump out as he sits.

4. Concentrate on footwork and leash work when drilling halts, performing a series of halts at a normal heeling pace.

5. Place your left foot in back of you as you halt to prevent the dog from sitting in that spot.

6. Stop the dog close to a barrier on the halt to avoid having the dog rump out. Good barriers to work with include wires, broad jump boards or the sidewalk curb.

Tips & Warnings

• When you practice, set up some distractions to teach the dog he must pay attention to this first halt.
• If the dog misses this first halt in the ring, focus training on paying attention and get the dog proofed to the ring situation.
• When the dog does the first halt well, reward him with a treat and enthusiastic praise.
• To make the first halt memorable for the dog, break off the heeling before continuing with the training.