Strategy Saturday: How to Handle a Course You Hate

We’ve all been there. You walk a course and instantly think: I hate this. The lines feel awkward, the challenges don’t suit your dog, and your brain starts spiraling before you’ve even hit the start line.

Here’s the truth: you don’t get to choose the course—but you do get to choose how you handle it.

🐾 Step 1: Take the emotion out.
Your dog doesn’t care if you like the course. They care if you show up clear and confident. Shift from “I hate this” to “This is just another puzzle.”

🐾 Step 2: Identify the danger zones.
Pinpoint the sections that feel messy or uncomfortable. Don’t avoid them—plan for them. Decide exactly how you’ll handle those spots so there’s no hesitation when you’re running.

🐾 Step 3: Play to your strengths.
Maybe your dog’s wraps are brilliant, or your rear crosses are solid. Use what you and your dog do best to smooth over the bits you dislike.

🐾 Step 4: Adjust your expectations.
Not every course is built for speed or style. Sometimes the win is nailing teamwork, keeping clarity, or handling that one tough sequence cleanly.

🐾 Step 5: Commit anyway.
Even if you hate the course, run it like you love it. Commit to every cue, every line, every choice. Half-hearted handling only makes things worse.

The truth is, handling a course you hate is part of being a complete competitor. The best handlers don’t just shine when the course is “their style.” They shine because they adapt, they problem-solve, and they keep their dog’s confidence intact—no matter what’s set in front of them.

So next time you’re staring at a course that makes your stomach sink, smile. Because this is where you grow.

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