Expanded Description:
In competition we see all sorts of poorly executed crosses and dogs that don't fully understand their handlers' cues for crosses. The results are often spins, off-courses, dropped bars, wasted strides, unnecessary stress on the dog's body, and even decreased motivation because flow is interrupted or the dog is unsure about what the handler wants.
A properly executed, well-timed front or rear cross should lead to a seamless change of side, completed without noticeable hesitation in the dog's forward movement. If the cue for the cross is delivered in a timely fashion, the dog will already be flexing or turning in the new direction as he completes the obstacle before the turn. This allows the dog to jump efficiently and safely because he is already on the correct lead for the new direction.
To achieve this, the dog must be trained in the specifics of the cross itself and he must understand all body language and any verbal cues that are associated with a front cross and a rear cross. This DVD covers all of the steps involved in teaching front and rear crosses. Stacy's training methods are appropriate for puppies, dogs that need to be retrained, and all stages in between.
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