Forced Front Cross
What is a Forced Front Cross:
This handling move guides your dog around to the backside of an obstacle and gets them to 'slice' across the jump.
You do this by:
- Getting ahead of your dog on a course
- One step behind the front wing with just your arm reaching out for the dog to see at nose level
- Encourage them to you such as waving your hand/calling their name.
- Turn to face the jump pole as the dog arrives, watching their movement.
- Your guiding arm stays at 45 degrees and no waving.
- Move your position to be by the back wing
- After the dog has committed to the jump, look towards where you want the dog to go next
How to train a Forced Front Cross:
Step 1:
- Leave your dog in a sit stay.
- Walk out with a reward in your right hand.
- You will stand behind the right wing of a jump.
- Hold your right arm out
- Wave your hand to get your dogs attention
- Call them and give them the reward.
Step 2:
As the dog arrives, drop the treat by the right wing and leave them there as you step towards the left wing.
Step 3:
Same as above, but step and turn towards the pole.
Step 4:
As above, but throw the reward towards the dogs landing point.
Continue your movement as they jump.
You can ask your trainer to place a reward if needed.
Step 5:
Reward from your hand, continue moving until your dog catches you.
Step 6: Use it on a course
Example course:
A Forced Front Cross could be used on #2.