Running Contacts Basic

Description

Running Contacts Basic – The foundation for safe and reliable Running Contacts

Running Contacts Basic is the first step in my two-course Running Contacts program. Using a structured free-shaping approach, you and your dog will build safe, reliable, and independent Running Contacts while developing a true understanding of the desired movement instead of simply memorizing a foot pattern.

Throughout five progressive modules, your dog will learn to perform deep, independent hits on the contact zone before gradually introducing straight exits as well as soft and tight turns. This creates the ideal foundation for Running Contacts Extended, where we build on these skills with increased speed, handling, and more challenging course situations.

Whether you’re teaching Running Contacts for the first time or looking for a structured and sustainable training system, this course provides the foundation for long-term success.

🎯 By the End of This Course

After completing this course, your dog will be able to:

• Perform deep and independent Running Contacts on the full dog walk.
• Perform straight exits as well as soft and tight turns.
• Understand the foundation of your directional cue system.
• Be ready to continue with Running Contacts Extended.

📚 What You’ll Get

• 12 months of access to all course content
• 5 modules, 12 lessons, and 11 detailed topics
• Step-by-step training instructions with clear explanations
• Important training tips and recommendations
• Troubleshooting guides and common mistakes
• Demonstration videos and sketches to clearly illustrate every exercise
• A structured training plan to help you progress step by step

☑️ Requirements

To get the most out of this course, you and your dog should meet the following requirements:

• Your dog is at least approximately 7–8 months old.
• Your dog is already able to focus for around 5 minutes at a time.
• Your dog has a good level of body awareness and coordination.
• Basic clicker training experience is helpful but not required.
• Your dog can be motivated by food and/or toys (ideally also showing motivation for static toys).
• You are willing to be patient, improve your eye for detail, and give your dog the time needed to fully understand each exercise.

⚒️ Required Equipment

For the training, you will need:

• A remote-controlled treat dispenser
• A non-slip board (approx. 1.30–1.50 m long and around 30 cm wide)
• A complete dog walk
• Optional: toys
• Optional: cones or jump wings

⏱️ Training Commitment

Plan for 3–4 training sessions per week, with each session lasting approximately 5–10 minutes.

Short, consistent training sessions create the best foundation for reliable Running Contacts.

💬 Optional Personal Feedback

If you would like individual support during your training, you can purchase Coaching Minutes separately and submit your videos for personal feedback during the available coaching periods.

The course is designed to be completed successfully with or without personal coaching.