Any pointers for the TDI test training?

Mom2tyson · #1 07-13-2005, 02:01 PM

Tyson is 1 yr and we just completed Advanced Obedience and our trainer is going to become certified to judge the CGC test this fall and has already said he would have no problem passing. Thats great but has anyone had any experience with TDI testing? I would love to take Tyson visiting but I'm not sure when he would be ready for that. He loves people so much and loves the attention that I'm afraid he might jump on them because he still does that when he gets really excited. I have no doubt that he would pass the CGC test but I am worried because he's not so reliable off leash yet it seems he doesn't think he has to listen to every command whithout his leash or a treat he'll just stand there and look at you like "whats in it for me?" So I was wondering if any one had some pointers on what we should be focusing on training him to get to the point where we can pass the TDI test and be a good therapy dog.

Thanks in advance

Renee&Jake · #2 07-14-2005, 05:26 AM

If you are interested in doing TDI, work on keeping all 4 feet on the floor. Besides aggression and shyness that 's the biggest focus on the TDI. Also, being used to loud noises and smooth flooring surfaces - and comfortable with walkers and wheelchairs.

When I do a test, I give people the option to do the stay and recall on or off leash, but otherwise, the dog is always on lead for both CGC & TDI.

You could go to the AKC website and see if you can download the Evaluator's Guide. IMO, it better prepares you than the Participants guide (also available from the AKC). Often, our club does CGC/TDI combined testing, as it's pretty much the same thing.

Good Luck!

IluvLucy · #3 07-14-2005, 10:14 PM

You definitely don't want any jumping. When we took the test, everything was done ON leash. The TDI test is basically the same as the CGC except they add the wheelchairs and walkers etc. I guess I'm just saying "diito" to what was said above. Good luck with your test!

Mom2tyson · #4 07-16-2005, 08:33 AM

Thanks for the info on that guide from the AKC. We are still working on the jumping. He is getting better as he gets older it seems like he has more self-control but he still does it when he's very excited. I know that we need to work on that. From reading that guide I think the only other thing I would question is ignoring a dog that walks by. If I gave him the sit stay command he would probably listen so there are a couple things to work on. We'll have to do some more work and hope it pays off because I can't imagine having to live without animals and know how happy that would make someone to share some of those big wet boxer kisses cause Tyson is full of them!