Obedience

Why obedience train a Saluki? So much of it is counterpoint to our frame of reference for a sighthound. After all, aren't they aloof, dignified, easily bored, independent and cat-like? If, however, you can find a motivator that works (food, praise, back rub or favourite toy), and have lots of patience, a sense of humour, and know when to quit, obedience training can be rewarding and useful, even a lifesaver.

What Saluki shouldn't walk on a lead without tugging, tolerate strangers touching him, and come when he's called? Coming when called could save a dog's life in a dangerous situation. These basic skills should be required of every Saluki. They are also the basic obedience skills. Add sits, downs, stays and the finish, and all of a sudden you and your Saluki are doing the thing we call obedience.

Whether a Saluki enjoys obedience work or not is as individual as the dog himself. Some love it, others tolerate it, and some would rather do absolutely anything else. An upbeat approach is all-important in the training of any sighthound. Never punish or use harsh corrections with a Saluki or you will lose its respect and be "tuned out". Keep practice sessions short and fun, especially in the beginning and with young dogs. Above all, be patient.

You can begin teaching simple exercises at eight weeks of age. Baby Saluki puppies can learn to sit or down for treats, and are quite proud of themselves for doing so. As they mature, you can build up to longer sits, longer downs, try some heeling and teach the stay. By shaping behaviour through positive reinforcement while your Saluki is still a puppy, you are teaching it how to learn. Future training becomes much easier once you have this foundation. Training, however, is not just for the young, as older dogs will blossom with all the attention they receive when an obedience program is embarked upon. It truly is sport for all ages. Saluki owners who question the value of obedience training, who say they only want a good companion and are not interested in competition, should understand that the practical advantages to obedience training go far beyond mere titles and ribbons. Training can build confidence in the shy dog and develop responsiveness in the independent. A reliable recall or sit-stay can literally be a lifesaver. The obedience trained Saluki is much less likely to panic and run should it accidentally slip its lead, as it has had a taste of the responsibility that goes along with freedom.

The American Kennel Club offers competitive events and official titles. These titles begin at the Companion Dog (CD) level, and advance to Utility Dog Excellent (UDX). Additionally, the AKC offers an interesting title called Canine Good Citizen (CGC) that is probably the most basic test of manners and suitable temperament.

Will the obedience trained Saluki sit in the conformation ring? Not if you train it not to. When you introduce the sit-stay, also teach the stand-stay. Salukis are smart enough to learn these two things as separate exercises. In fact, the goal you are striving for in the conformation ring'a dog that will stand-stay after gaiting'is very like the Utility class exercise called the "moving stand".

Working in obedience will expose you to facets of your Saluki's personality that you never knew existed. It can deepen your relationship with even the most aloof of individuals and cement a bond with the exuberant. Salukis are notorious for their creativity, and the stimulation provided by training can keep their energies channeled into a positive vein. Obedience training is well worth the time spent, as not only will you understand your Saluki better, you will have a more well-rounded, confident individual as your companion.

Materials are from: http://www.salukiclub.org/ 

Copyright © 2003-2011. All rights reserved.