--- In bernese-in-gb@yahoogroups.com, bernerinfo@... wrote:
>
Hello Jude

Many thanks for the explanation, I really thought we had a dog with faulty
movement and I'll try moving at a faster pace. Your comment about being "lazy"
is very apt where Ella is concerned! We're not doing long walks at the moment
though as it's 32+ this week.

Maureen


> Hello Maureen,
>
> >> What I try to do when we're out on a walk and she starts pacing I stop
> her and start her moving again. <<
>
> As previously mentioned, pacing in the show ring does not enable a dog's
> movement and construction to be assessed efficiently, but pacing is a
> 'natural' gait which can often be seen in canines. Pacing is an 'energy
> efficient' way for dogs to move, especially those who are covering long
distances
> (and also those who are a bit lazy too!) LOL
>
> Pacing can become a conformable habit for dogs and in most instances it
> isn't a big deal - but it is an issue for those who want to exhibit their
> dogs. The longer the habit exists the more difficult it is to persuade a
dog
> not to pace. Some show dogs are so intent on pacing that several owners
> have resorted to regularly 'bump-starting-their exhibits to try to get them
> to move in the desired way for the judge. A lot of owners have discovered
> that if they set off from the stance quite fast so that their dog has to
> canter to catch up, then slowing into a more moderate speed within a few
> yards, that most dogs will settle into the desired trot.
>
> Well, that's the theory anyway! Stopping a dog who likes to pace from
> doing so is just a case of the owner practising to get the speed and the
> remedial technique perfect :-)
>
> Jude
>