In this episode (28:39) This week on the podcast, we take a closer look at how dogs actually run a course and what handlers can do to help them run it faster and with more confidence. We explain why dogs run lines rather than individual obstacles and how understanding your dog's stride, structure, and turning ability helps you choose the best line for any sequence. We also talk about why the fastest path is not always the shortest and how video comparison reveals the true optimal line for your dog. You Will Learn Why you should handle lines, not individual obstacles How pulling, position, and continuous cues shape your dog's line Why tight turns slow dogs and when a wider arc is actually faster How to compare options on video to find the best line for your dog Mentioned Episode 179: Which is Faster, a Front Cross or Rear Cross? Episode 108: Choices on Course Sponsored By Saint Rocco's Treats Canine Handler Fitness
375: When Stress Hijacks Your Handling (00:30:02)
In this episode (30:01) In this episode, we break down why so many handlers walk to the start line with a clear plan and instantly forget everything the moment the run begins. You Will Learn Why your brain blanks on course and how stress shuts down the prefrontal cortex, reducing timing, sequencing, and decision-making. How adrenaline affects handling, including tunnel vision, and reversion to default movement patterns. What the Yerkes-Dodson curve tells us about optimal arousal for performance and why beginners fall off the curve sooner. How to use the physiological sigh as a rapid, science-based tool to reset your nervous system right before a run. Mentioned Episode 159: Handler Muscle Memory for Dog Agility Episode 188: Handler Desensitization Sponsored By: Canine Handler Fitness with Liz Joyce
374: Fail Better (00:22:10)
In this episode (20:34) In this episode, Esteban and Sarah talk about what it really means when things go wrong in the ring. A knocked bar, a wrong course, a dog that runs straight to the leash—none of these moments predict your future in agility. Instead, they're feedback about where you and your dog are in your training journey. You Will Learn The key difference between formative and summative feedback—and how it applies to training and trials. Why tying your success or failure to self-worth actually slows progress (and how to stop doing it). How to read your dog's "mistakes" as information about confidence, arousal, and understanding. Thank You for Listening! Thanks so much for joining us this week. To get Bad Dog Agility podcasts sent directly to your device as they become available, you can subscribe on iTunes, SoundCloud, or Spotify. Happy training and thank you for helping us reach over 2 million podcast downloads! Sponsored By: Canine Handler Fitness with Liz Joyce
373: Burnout in Dog Agility (00:37:03)
In this episode (37:02) Burnout isn't just something that happens at work—it happens in dog agility, too. In this episode, we dive into what burnout looks like for handlers, why it happens, and how to recover in a healthy way. You Will Learn The three major predictors of burnout identified across 30+ studies: Why agility is uniquely vulnerable to burnout (and what's missing compared to other sports). Practical ways to recover and prevent burnout for both you and your dog. Sponsored By Saint Rocco's Treats Clip & Go Agility
372: "My Dog Deserves Better" (00:20:35)
In this episode (20:34) We've all said it. "My dog deserves better." Maybe after a missed contact, a wide turn, or one of those runs where nothing clicks. But what does that phrase really mean? In this episode, we look at where it comes from, how it shapes the way we see ourselves as handlers, and what our dogs actually need from us. You Will Learn Why "my dog deserves better" comes from love and care, but can slowly turn into guilt. How to tell the difference between healthy accountability and self-blame that holds you back. Why having a super talented dog can feel like pressure instead of joy, and how to flip that around. Esteban's advice to reframe your language so it builds confidence instead of doubt. Thank You for Listening! Thanks so much for joining us this week. To get Bad Dog Agility podcasts sent directly to your device as they become available, you can subscribe on iTunes, SoundCloud, or Spotify. Happy training and thank you for helping us reach over 2 million podcast downloads! Sponsored By: Canine Handler Fitness with Liz Joyce Clip and Go Agility
In this episode (48:38) This week on the Bad Dog Agility Podcast, we sit down with Kris Seiter, the newly crowned FCI Agility World Champion in the Intermediate height division, and her Border Collie Naavdanya, the first American team to win an overall individual gold medal since 2011. Fresh off their incredible performance in Kalmar, Sweden, Kris joins us to share what it felt like to stand atop the podium and take us behind the scenes of an unforgettable weekend on the world stage. You Will Learn Kris's thoughts and emotions after each run at AWC How she and her husband share handling duties with Naavdanya Insights into this year's course design What it's like competing as part of Team USA on the international stage The preparation and mindset behind a gold-medal performance Watch Kris' Winning Run https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1969545397230903 Sponsored By: Canine Handler Fitness with Liz Joyce Clip and Go Agility
370: FOMO in Dog Agility (00:32:55)
In this episode (32:54) In this episode, we unpack FOMO, the Fear of Missing Out, in the world of dog agility. From chasing every seminar and trend to feeling left behind when others seem to improve faster, we talk about how FOMO affects both handlers and dogs. Drawing on psychology, personal experience, and plenty of agility-specific examples, we explore how to recognize FOMO, how it can quietly derail progress, and how to shift toward a healthier mindset, the Joy of Missing Out (JOMO). Whether you're a newcomer overwhelmed by all the options or a seasoned competitor trying to keep up with every new technique, this episode will help you reset your focus and find confidence in your own path. You Will Learn What FOMO really is and why it's especially common in dog agility. How FOMO can affect training, competition, finances, and mental health. Why even experienced handlers and coaches fall into the trap of constant comparison. Practical ways to reframe FOMO into JOMO, the Joy of Missing Out. Mentioned/Related Episode 182: Choose Your Own Agility Adventure Sponsored By: Canine Handler Fitness with Liz Joyce Clip and Go Agility
370: FOMO in Dog Agility (00:32:55)
In this episode (32:54) In this episode, we unpack FOMO, the Fear of Missing Out, in the world of dog agility. From chasing every seminar and trend to feeling left behind when others seem to improve faster, we talk about how FOMO affects both handlers and dogs. Drawing on psychology, personal experience, and plenty of agility-specific examples, we explore how to recognize FOMO, how it can quietly derail progress, and how to shift toward a healthier mindset, the Joy of Missing Out (JOMO). Whether you're a newcomer overwhelmed by all the options or a seasoned competitor trying to keep up with every new technique, this episode will help you reset your focus and find confidence in your own path. You Will Learn What FOMO really is and why it's especially common in dog agility. How FOMO can affect training, competition, finances, and mental health. Why even experienced handlers and coaches fall into the trap of constant comparison. Practical ways to reframe FOMO into JOMO, the Joy of Missing Out. Mentioned/Related Episode 182: Choose Your Own Agility Adventure
369: Jennifer Gives a TED Talk (00:48:28)
In this episode (48:27) What does it really take to deliver a TED Talk? In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Crank to hear about her journey from invitation to standing on stage under the iconic red letters. Jennifer takes us behind the scenes of the months-long preparation process—from refining her script with TED coaches to designing visuals that would resonate with a global audience. You Will Learn Why TED Talks generate over $100 million each year and how that shapes the brand's global reach How invited speakers work with a dedicated coach to refine and sharpen their story Why every TED Talk must be fully memorized—no teleprompters allowed What it was like for Jennifer to bring a live dog agility demo onto the TED stage Mentioned/Related Speaking of being a mom, that was the topic of our first podcast with Jennifer…as a guest, not a host! Episode 154: Kids and Dogs and Jennifer Crank Sponsored By: Canine Handler Fitness with Liz Joyce Clip and Go Agility
368: From Agility Ring to Superman's Superdog! (00:32:07)
In this episode (32:06) In this special episode, we sit down with agility competitor Connie Dieball, whose dog Jolene served as the reference dog for Krypto in the new Superman movie directed by James Gunn. Connie shares the amazing story of how Jolene made it to the big screen, what it was like filming on a major movie set, and how she balanced a full-time job while working on a blockbuster production. If you love agility, movies, or just great dog stories—this one's for you. You Will Learn How Connie and Jolene got started in agility during the COVID-19 pandemic How Jolene was selected to be the reference dog for Krypto What it means to be a "reference dog" in a CGI-heavy movie What it was like on set and how Jolene interacted with the cast and crew Who Jolene's favorite people were Mentioned/Related January 9, 2025 Wednesday Wrap Up (Karen Pryor, Dogwalk Changes?, Superdog) CNN article talking about the inspiration for Krypto: https://www.cnn.com/2025/07/12/entertainment/superman-krypto-dog See the show notes for several videos featuring Jolene AKA Krypto! https://baddogagility.com/368
367: The Success Cycle (00:17:00)
In this episode (16:59) Struggling to make progress in agility—even though you're putting in the work? In this episode, Esteban and Sarah break down the Success Cycle, a powerful 5-stage framework that shows you how to level up your agility game. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned competitor, this blueprint will help you move forward with clarity and confidence. You Will Learn The 5 stages of the Success Cycle Why most agility handlers plateau—and how to avoid staying stuck The biggest mistake people make when they skip the Review and Adjust phases How small adjustments lead to big breakthroughs in your performance What separates handlers who level up quickly from those who spin their wheels Mentioned/Related Episode 212: Do You Really Need Video Analysis? Episode 139: The Test/Train/Adjust Cycle Episode 30: Analyzing Mistakes and a Look at Systems
366: What Separates the Top 10% from Everyone Else (00:20:39)
In this episode (20:38) What really sets the top agility teams apart? In this episode, Esteban, Sarah, and Jennifer each choose one key factor they believe gives elite teams an edge—and it's not what you might think. Talent, speed, age, or breed? Nope. We're talking about habits and strategies that any team can develop, starting today. Whether you're aiming for national finals or just trying to feel more confident in your runs, this conversation will give you clarity on where to focus your time and energy. You Will Learn Why success in agility isn't reserved for the naturally talented or the young and fast One thing each of your hosts believes separates the top 10% from everyone else How to build these success-driving habits into your own training What doesn't matter nearly as much as you might think (hint: it's not your dog's breed) Mentioned/Related Episode 212: Do You Really Need Video Analysis?
365: Why You Need a Coach (Even If You Don't Think You Do) (00:29:08)
In this episode (29:07) Coaches and instructors play a crucial role in our growth as agility handlers. In this episode, Sarah, Jennifer, and Esteban reflect on the many different types of coaching available to competitors, both inside and outside the agility world, and how they can help shape your skills, mindset, and confidence. You don't have to be in a weekly class to benefit from a coach. And you don't need a title to be one. Whether it's a fellow competitor, a sports psychologist, a trial buddy, or an online instructor helping you prep for a big event, coaching is everywhere, and it's evolving fast thanks to technology. You Will Learn How video, slow motion, and remote platforms have changed the coaching game. The surprising places coaching can come from, even outside of agility. The specialized types of coaches we've each worked with (contacts, mental management, event prep, and more). Why you might be acting as someone's coach already and how to embrace that role. How a community built on shared learning makes agility better for everyone. Mentioned/Related Episode 289: The End of Coach's Eye You can find Running Contacts classes with Euan Paterson here: https://www.camddwrcanine.co.uk/camddwr-courses You can find Running Contacts classes with Silvia Trkman here: https://www.lolabuland.com/online-classes/
364: Mastery or Survival - The Class vs. Trial Mindset (00:27:24)
photo credit: Great Dane Photos In this episode (27:23) In this episode, we dive into a question every agility handler wrestles with: Should you train in class the way the course should be run to build skills—or adapt your handling as if you're at a trial, doing whatever it takes to get through clean? Jennifer kicks off the conversation with a story from her in-person class, where a handler faced this very dilemma. Esteban shares how he uses small-space sequences to help handlers try out multiple options—rear cross, front cross, blind cross—and then analyze which is actually faster using video review. The results are often surprising, leading to smarter handling strategies or exposing weaknesses that can be addressed in training. Whether you're a handler who trains for mastery or trials for survival, this episode will give you fresh insight into how to approach your next class—and your next run. You Will Learn The pros and cons of the "ideal execution" mindset versus the "trial-day strategy" mindset Why it's not an either-or question, and how context—your dog, your goals, your stage of training—matters How to blend both approaches into your training plan for better long-term results Mentioned/Related The Finals Map
363: New Research Focusing on Dog Agility Safety (00:39:14)
photo credit: Great Dane Photos In this episode (39:13) In this episode, Esteban and Sarah are joined by Dr. Arielle Pechette Markley, a Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation veterinarian and researcher, to discuss a groundbreaking initiative in dog agility safety: the Coalition for Agility Reporting on Incidents and Safety (CARIS). We're excited to share that major agility organizations around the world—including AKC, ASCA, CPE, FCI, NADAC, RKC, UKI, and USDAA—have come together in an unprecedented show of cooperation to support independent, evidence-based research into agility safety. These organizations are contributing data to the Canine Sports Science Consortium (CSSC), led by Drs. Arielle Pechette Markley, Abigail Shoben, Melody Moore Jackson, and Rachel Olson. The first study of its kind, this project focuses on contact obstacles—specifically the A-Frame, Dog Walk, and Teeter—and aims to identify the relationship between obstacle performance, number of runs, and reported incidents. The initiative was inspired in part by ongoing discussions around Dog Walk safety, including proposals to lower its height or widen the plank. Join us as Dr. Markley shares how this study came together, what it means for the future of agility, and how judges, trial secretaries, and show organizers can contribute to this collaborative effort. It's a major step toward making agility safer for all dogs, and we're thrilled to help spread the word. You Will Learn Why leading agility organizations are uniting to support data-driven safety research What CARIS is and how it will collect and analyze obstacle-related incident data How current debates around Dog Walk height and width inspired this research initiative What role judges, trial secretaries, and handlers can play in shaping the future of agility safety Mentioned The project announcement on the Canine Sports Science Consortium website Donate to help support dog agility research. Our previous podcast: Episode 355: Is It Time to Change the Dogwalk?
362: Post NAC Wrap-Up with Abbey Beasley (00:53:31)
photo credit: Great Dane Photos In this episode (53:30) In this episode, we discuss the 2025 AKC National Agility Championship, including a historic win by our own Jennifer Crank in the 16″ class. We're also joined by 12″ winner Abbey Beasley to talk about the toughest course challenges, trends in course design, and what this year's results signal for the agility landscape. Note: In the podcast we said we thought that none of the top seed dogs won, which was incorrect; Amelia Geninger and Eclipse (24″) were the top seed and won the title. They were the only top seed to win. You Will Learn What made Jennifer Crank's 16″ win historic. A look at the recent dominance of Border Collies in the 16″ class and how this year broke the trend. How Jennifer and Abbey approached not being the top seed in the Finals. Key course challenges from NAC 2025 and how the prelim course designs differed from the Finals course design. Why the livestream camera work left many viewers frustrated. Mentioned/Related The Finals Map
361: Last-Minute AKC NAC Prep (00:50:09)
In this episode (50:08) The AKC National Agility Championship is finally here! Whether you're a seasoned competitor or attending your first NAC, this episode is packed with last-minute insights to help you stay focused, execute with confidence, and get the most out of your experience. We'll discuss mindset, strategy for making the Finals or Challenger Round, and key mental and physical preparation tips. No matter where you finish, the trip is always worth it—let's get you in the right frame of mind to succeed! You Will Learn How to set realistic expectations and avoid the trap of thinking "If I can't make Finals, it's not worth it." The two ways forward: making the Finals or the Challenger Round—and why you should stick around until you're absolutely sure you're out. Why clean runs matter more than ever and how to adjust your handling strategy to prioritize them. How to approach the Challenger Round and Finals strategically, including the importance of seeding, judge tendencies, and staying composed. The mental and physical preparation needed to perform your best—including rest, nutrition, visualization, and handling ring conflicts. Mentioned What Does It Take to Make Finals at AKC Nationals? How to Make the Finals at AKC Nationals Visualization and Mental Preparation Join us for the 2025 Before and After Online Course!
360: How Handlers Compromise Good Training (00:24:36)
In this episode (24:35) As handlers, we've all been there—our dogs make a mistake, and suddenly, we feel this overwhelming pressure to "fix it" right away. But in our rush to correct the issue, we often sacrifice good training for mediocre training, just to feel like we've accomplished something in the moment. In this episode, Sarah, Jennifer, and Esteban each tackle a common mistake handlers make when addressing common training mistakes (yes, that's a mouthful!). We break down why handlers struggle with these moments and how shifting your mindset can help you prioritize long-term success over short-term fixes. You Will Learn Why handlers feel pressure to "fix" mistakes and how that impacts training The most common handler mistakes when addressing: -Mid-sequence errors (Sarah) -Missed contacts & weave poles (Jennifer) -Start-line issues (Esteban) A mindset shift that will help you prioritize quality training over quick fixes Mentioned Episode 139: The Test/Train/Adjust Cycle
359: Team USA Coach Nancy Gyes Retires (01:16:08)
In this episode (1:16:07) In this episode, we sit down with Nancy Gyes as she reflects on two decades of coaching the AKC USA World Team at the FCI Agility World Championship. From her experiences as a competitor on the first-ever team in 1996 to leading the U.S. to international success, Nancy shares insights on how the sport has evolved, what it takes to stay competitive globally, and her thoughts on the future of U.S. agility. Plus, find out what's next for Nancy as she steps down from her role. You Will Learn What it was like competing on the first AKC/USA World Team in 1996. The biggest changes in international agility competition over the past 30 years. Key trends in European agility influencing U.S. performance. The issues facing agility organizations in the team selection process. Nancy's perspective on the toughest challenges and most memorable moments from her coaching career. Mentioned We last spoke with Nancy on Episode 5 in 2012!!! Listen to this blast from the past: Episode 5: Nancy Gyes and Carrie DeYoung Interview Sarah's Favorite Podcast: Episode 182: Choose Your Own Agility Adventure
358: Westminster Masters Agility Championship 2025 with Emily Klarman (00:43:42)
In this episode, we sit down with Emily Klarman, the newly crowned 2025 Westminster Masters Agility Champion! Emily shares her experience competing on one of the biggest stages in the sport, giving us a behind-the-scenes look at the Finals which was aired LIVE on Fox. You Will Learn Insights into the course design and how it compared to previous years. The impact of the surface on handling and performance. How the venue setup (including those huge poles!) affected the competition. The energy of the crowd and how it influences the dogs. Mentioned UDog Agility Find Emily on Instagram: @roamingbcs
357: Preparation Checklist for Big Events (00:18:39)
photo credit: Great Dane Photos In this episode (18:38) Big events bring excitement, pressure, and the opportunity to showcase all your hard work. But success doesn't just happen—it's the result of solid preparation, both physically and mentally. In this episode, we break down the key strategies that will set you up for success at major competitions, from learning the rules to fine-tuning your mental game. You Will Learn How to analyze event rules and judge tendencies to avoid surprises on competition day. Why studying past courses and running them in training gives you a competitive edge. The importance of mental preparation, visualization, and building confidence before the big event. How to perfect your routines at regular trials so they hold up under pressure. The key to staying flexible and adapting to unexpected challenges at high-stakes competitions. Mentioned Visualization and Mental Preparation Episode 32: Improving Your Mental Game for Big Events
356: Should You Specialize? (00:38:56)
In this episode (38:55) In this episode, we tackle a listener's question: Can you excel in more than one agility venue? Specialization vs. versatility is a hot topic in dog sports, and we dive into the pros and cons of focusing on a single organization versus competing across multiple venues. You Will Learn How Jennifer Crank was selected to her high school's Hall of Fame. How different agility organizations have distinct course design philosophies and challenges. How major events within a single organization, like the AKC Invitational, Westminster, and AKC FCI Agility World Championship tryouts, feature unique course designs and competitive demands. Why competitors increasingly have to choose where to spend their time and money, and how to make informed decisions based on factors specific to you and your dog. Mentioned Episode 182: Choose Your Own Agility Adventure Episode 239: How to Pick the Right Agility Organization for Your Dog Episode 224: Defining YOUR Success in Dog Agility
355: Is It Time to Change the Dogwalk? (01:18:24)
photo credit: Great Dane Photos In this episode (1:18:23) In this episode, we dive into the hottest agility topic on social media right now: the dogwalk. We explore the passionate and diverse opinions within the agility community about whether it's time to rethink the design of this iconic piece of equipment. Joining us is Mark Bills of Clip and Go Agility, the creator of the 18″ wide dogwalk that's been making waves on social media. You Will Learn How the agility community feels about changing the dogwalk specifications. Which groups of dogs could benefit from adjustments to the width or height. The pros and cons of modifying the dogwalk dimensions. How changes to the dogwalk could also improve safety on the teeter. The realistic costs involved in altering the width of the dogwalk. Mentioned Click here for the Clip and Go video showing dogs doing a standard dogwalk and a wider, lower dogwalk. Facebook post from Katarina Podlipnik Capuder about her 40cm dogwalk. Update from Clip and Go
354: Building Community in Dog Agility (00:35:02)
In this episode (35:02) In this episode, Sarah, Jennifer, and Esteban explore the importance of community in dog agility. From local clubs to national events, they discuss how fostering connections can enhance your overall experience and help the sport thrive. You Will Learn Why community matters and how it can elevate your training and competition experience. Strategies for connecting with others at trials, classes, and clubs. Tips for creating an inclusive environment that welcomes newcomers and fosters belonging. It's also okay to just show up and run your dog.
353: Game Changers in Dog Agility (00:26:40)
photo credit: Great Dane Photos In this episode (26:39) In this podcast, we explore how trailblazers redefine their fields, using Caitlin Clark's transformative impact on women's basketball as a lens to examine innovation in dog agility. From long-range shooting to running contacts, we discuss the creativity and risk-taking that drive progress in sports. You Will Learn How Caitlin Clark's game is revolutionizing women's basketball and inspiring the next generation of players. The parallels between sports like basketball and dog agility in fostering innovation and pushing boundaries. Key milestones in the evolution of dog agility, including running contacts, backsides, blind crosses, and advanced verbal cues. How risk-taking and creativity lead to game-changing breakthroughs in both human and canine sports. Why pioneers in any field are essential for shaping future strategies, techniques, and culture.
