Developing Consistent Verbal Cues for Directionals in Agility
Clear, reliable directionals can make or break your agility run. When your dog knows exactly what your cues mean — and trusts them — you create smoother lines, faster turns, and fewer mistakes. But building consistent verbals takes more than just shouting “left” and “right” and hoping for the best.
So how do you develop cues your dog will actually understand and trust?
1. Pick Your Words and Stick to Them
Decide on your verbal cues early and stay consistent. If you say “left” one day and “this way” the next, you’re creating confusion. Your dog’s clarity depends on your consistency. One cue. One meaning. Every time.
2. Make the Cues Sound Different
Avoid using similar-sounding words for different directions. “Left” and “Lift” can blur under speed and excitement. Choose words that sound clearly different so your dog can pick them out even when they’re flying around the course.
3. Train Verbals Without Body Motion First
If your body is always telling the dog where to go, they’ll rely on that instead of your voice. Practise giving directionals while standing still, sitting down, or facing the wrong way. Teach your dog to respond to your voice alone.
4. Reinforce Clarity in All Contexts
Test your verbals on both sides, with different obstacles, from different distances. Build up from slow, thoughtful sessions to fast, high-arousal ones. The goal is for your dog to trust your verbal even when things get exciting.
5. Proof Against Movement and Pressure
Dogs often ignore verbals when they’re under pressure or when you’re moving fast. Practise using directionals while running hard, doing blind crosses, or changing your handling style. Make your cues reliable no matter what you’re doing.
6. Be Fair, Be Clear, Be Repetitive
Your dog isn’t trying to get it wrong. They just need you to make it crystal clear. Consistent practice, consistent language, and fair expectations will build the rock-solid understanding you need.
A well-trained verbal directional is like a superpower on course. Build them carefully, use them consistently, and watch your teamwork shine.
