What class next?

[Tammy & Gracie]

Gracie is a little over a year old. We completed a basic obedience class and she earned her CGC last fall at around 7 or 8 months (to my great delight and surprise). Next week I hope she will pass her test from the beginning agility class we have been taking the past month or so. I want to go further and really enjoy working with her. However, I am not sure where to go next. At this point, she is not great at off-lead obedience but she is still very young. She has done very well at the agility tasks we have learned with no fear. Maybe advanced obedience then more agility? After reading up, I like the idea of rally alot. Any suggestions since I don't have a clear path?

[Ali]

I say the next step would be an off-leash obedience class or a distance training course. Challenge yourself and your dog. You could also look into other agility levels or fly ball and get on a team. My ultimate goal is to get Lola to be a therapy dog, so that could be another activity, but wouldn't be as active as you may want to burn off all that energy. Congratulations on all your success, you must be a proud parent.

[Ali]

Also, talk to your trainer from the previous course that you took to see if he/she has any ideas. They know what the dog is capable of and would know how to challenge the dog a little more, but nothing that would be overwhelming.

[Tammy & Gracie]

Yeah, I am a real proud doodle mom. When Gracie was a small pup my mom was injured and had to go to a nursing home for awhile. I saw how much joy, visiting therapy dogs gave those folks. I wanted Gracie to do that but she has turned out to be too rambunctious for elderly and ill folks.... Maybe when ashe is a much older girl! Good luck to you, Lola and her quest.