The Figure Eight

The figure eight is the ultimate test of how well you have taught all the basics of heeling because it requires the dog to constantly change pace and direction. It should not be attempted until you have the fast, the slow and halts well taught. Again, once all the elements are understood by the dog, good figure eights come down to consistent footwork. Make sure your circles at both ends of the "8" are the same size and are large enough to keep you well away from the "posts." Do not change your pace on the figure eight - that's your dog's job. I've found it helpful to have students practice the figure eight without their dogs, holding their arms out to each side like an airplane. Lower the inside arm and raise the outside arm as you walk around each post in a symmetrical circle. This forces the handler to lean slightly toward the posts on each end figure and helps tremendously with balance. If it is comfortable for you to single track with your feet, do it. Train the heeling of the figure eights without the halts first to get the constant, flowing changes of pace.