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“It depends on the dog.” is often the start of the answer to questions that dog owners ask. I want that shirt too! @Chris – when do we put in our orders? *grin*
About that 180-turn you mention. I agree that can be a great move, and teach it as one of basic Dance Steps that my teams learn together.
Using a cone to turn around, we learn U-turn by: slowing down just before entering the turn, M/R with the dog by the side of the hander to make sure they are close and paying attention, then speed up the pace into the turn, using an open palm with treat (Lure) to guide them through the other side, another M/R as the dog catches up and continues to move together with their handlers in the opposite direction they started. A verbal cue is added once the is strong and fluid.
Having this, and other Evasive Maneuvers, to use while out on walks offers ways to choreograph walks and get out of sticky situations. I think of this as “beyond heeling”.
I’m always looking for new ones to incorporate into our repertoire! What other cues do folks use to ask their dogs to move in different directions with them when out on walks together?