🏁 Don’t Coast the Finish Line: Why the End of Your Agility Run Matters More Than You Think

🏁 Don’t Coast the Finish Line: Why the End of Your Agility Run Matters More Than You Think

Most handlers obsess over start lines. They drill them. They protect them. But you know what rarely gets the same respect?

The finish line.
And that’s a mistake.

Here’s the truth:

How your dog finishes a run is how they’ll start the next one.
And if the end of your run is messy, rushed, or unclear, you’re sabotaging future performance.

1. The Finish is Part of the Picture

In your dog’s mind, the run doesn’t end at the last obstacle—it ends when you make it end.

If they cross the finish line and bolt off sniffing, chase a toy on their own, or run to someone else… that’s what they’re learning is part of the routine. Every rep builds habit.

The end is a behaviour, too. Train it like one.

2. Reinforcement Lives Here

Too many handlers let the last obstacle act like a full stop. No praise, no reward, no celebration. Just… done.

Imagine running a race and no one’s at the finish line cheering for you. Would you sprint as hard next time?

💡 Fix it:

• Drive through the last obstacle.

• Reward like the world just exploded in fireworks.

• Use chasers, tugs, food, or affection—whatever lights your dog up.

Make your dog love the end as much as the middle.

3. Your Energy Sets the Tone

If your finish feels frantic, uncertain, or like you’ve mentally checked out—your dog will mirror that energy. Every rep where you disengage early teaches them the end is vague and unimportant.

Stay in the moment. All the way. To the very last stride.

Your Finish Line Routine

✅ Clean cue to the last obstacle
✅ Forward drive through the final moment
✅ Immediate celebration and reward
✅ Calm recovery and connection

Every finish is a chance to build motivation, clarity, and connection.
Treat it like a skill—and you’ll see better focus, faster drive, and smoother transitions between runs.

Want to sharpen your start and finish line game? Book a training session or video review with me—I’ll help you close every run like a pro.