practice

Newcomers Club

For beginners – human and canine. 

We start with information on canine prey drive, how dogs learn, and how to support your dog’s interest. We also include a personal introduction to a tame lab rat. Beginners are encouraged to stay to watch the more advanced level.

$10 per dog 

Meet the Rat Above Ground

This is the next step where dogs are encouraged to get “up close and personal” with the lab rat, which is always secure in a sturdy wire cage. This stage is where prey drive is awakened and channeled appropriately. The dog is then introduced to sections of 9-inch square tunnels which it will learn to traverse to find the prize – a caged rat – at the end. We start with a 3 foot section, progressing in stages to a ten foot tunnel with a right angle.  Also helpful as a warm up for Novice dogs.   

$10 per dog 

Go To Ground Now!

At this level the tunnels are set into the earth, their tops level with the ground, and the dog learns that once again a caged lab rat waits at the end. This includes the AKC earthdog test Intro to Quarry, a10 ft tunnel with 1 right-angle turn.  Also helpful as a warm up for Novice dogs.   

 $10 per dog 

Novice 

Senior 

Each dog recieves multiple chances in a session , are often given some time 

 to "let in sink in "and then go agin . We always want to end with a successful experience . 

If  you and  your dog is new start with newcomers if  your dog still is working  above the ground start with Meet the Rat , You are welcome to move up the ladder as the day goes by. many  folks like to repeat their last successful level , but also sign up for the next step.