Short Skills Training Sequences - Sept 2025

15 Sep 2025Steve Schwarz

Here are seven short skills training sequences for the same equipment setup designed to work on fundamental and advanced handling techniques. Each sequence contains multiple skills and challenges for both handler and dog.

My workshop had teams with a range of skills and we didn’t run all these sequences. Others were modified, shortened, and/or front/back sides of jumps switched as necessary.

I also moved jumps around to provide safe dog/handler paths and increase/decrease the challenges. Treat these layouts as a starting point and always adjust for safety!

General Training Notes

Focus on good execution rather than completing a sequence
Practice all crosses where applicable
Work from both sides of the line when appropriate
Update obstacle positions/rotations as needed for each sequence

Sequences

The full setup requires 80x100 feet. But some only use the bottom area 80x60 and the weaves are at the end/optional.

If a number is duplicated then try the sequence to both obstacles to test your cues help your dog discriminate between the obstacles.
Jumps colored red are ones I knew I’d need to adjust from the initial sequence.
Numbers placed at the side of a jump mean you should try taking the jump as a front side or a backside.

Skills Sequence 1

Skills Sequence 2

Skills Sequence 3

Skills Sequence 4

Skills Sequence 5

Skills Sequence 6

Skills Sequence 7

The same general equipment setup was also used in my Workshop Four Masters Training Sequences.

I hope you give these a try!

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