Cross Tracks #3

2/26/2023 - 11:30 a

Location: Holly Ridge Farm

Weather: 41 degrees, cloudy, N wind 2-5 mph, 92% humidity, 39 degree dew point

Cover: Grass pasture, woods

Age: 3:15 hour, cross tracks 30 minutes

Tracklayer: Kelly, cross tracks: Matt

Same pattern as before, different section of field. Flags on turns and cross tracks. Articles 1, 2, and 3 were 20 steps past the cross tracks. Article 4 was 15 steps past the cross tracks. All articles except the start article had food.

Saber's initial start was good but then I thought her tracking became lackluster. Her tracking behavior was stronger the second half of the track. The first two sets of cross tracks she wanted to check. I limited how much she was allowed to do so and verbally rewarded her when she chose the correct direction. I'm pretty sure the hot dogs 20 yards down the path meant more to her. I thought it got better each time, which tells me she is starting to understand which track she should follow.

Her turns on left side of the track were pretty good. The turns on the right near the tree line were more challenging. That section of the field she is always interested in exploring. I've seen a fox in that general area several times so I don't know if its wildlife or something else. My nose isn't as good as hers. I did use the step behind your dog trick a couple of time which is very obvious in the aerial view. It worked both times.

Overall, thought it was ok. Not her best or worst showing. I also think my handling was questionable today. I think I want to try this exercise on a track with less age so I get stronger tracking behavior but let me know if you think that is not a great idea.

Also Matt asked an interesting question: Does it matter what direction the cross tracks are laid?

Here is drone footage. Matt is having fun with his new toy and it is an interesting perspective.

Saber from the sky: https://youtu.be/pZyvYPgV0eA