Learning to trot

The trot is a natural gait: the limbs move in diagonal pairs, left front leg with right hind leg, then the other way round. At a show, it lets the judge observe the dog’s movement.

Learning is mostly about trotting together, at a comfortable pace suited to your breed.

Beginner — Finding the first steps

1. Set up an easy walk first

Before speeding up, your dog needs to be able to walk with you on a lead without pulling all the time.

The little game: in a quiet place, reward a few steps with a slack lead. Also work on a starting cue, such as “let’s go”. This foundation will make the first attempts at trotting easier.

2. Look for your dog’s pace

On a short straight line, gently increase your speed until you get a few strides at the trot.

To try: have an experienced person watch you. Depending on your dog, you may be able to walk briskly or you may need to jog lightly. There is no single ideal speed for all breeds.

3. Reward a short success

At first, a few regular strides are enough. Mark the success with your usual word, then slow down and give the reward.

Your goal: one short successful run, followed by a break. Distances and numbers of repetitions should be adapted to your dog’s age, fitness and attention.

Intermediate — Keeping a steady gait

1. Move at a steady pace

Sudden bursts of speed or repeated slowing down make the task harder for the dog.

To try: choose a short, clear route. Find your rhythm, then keep it until the end of the run. Have someone check that the movement stays fluid and suits your breed.

2. Let him look ahead

In the ring, a dog who keeps staring at the treat or at your face may find it hard to show his movement naturally.

Your reflex: keep the rewards available, but avoid holding them above his head for the whole run. Work on forward attention with your instructor.

3. Handle him lightly

The lead guides and secures your dog. Constant tension can get in the way of his presentation.

To try: have your lead handling and your equipment checked in a handling class. Your dog must be able to move freely, without being pulled forward or lifted by the neck.

Advanced — Preparing the presentation of the gaits

1. Work on ring patterns

The judge may ask for a down-and-back or a move around the ring to see the dog from the front, the side and the rear.

To try: practise first in a straight line, then add gradual curves. Plan your changes of direction so you don’t cut across your dog’s path.

2. Film yourself to understand what is happening

A video lets you check the gait without having to keep looking at your dog while you move.

Your check: is he really trotting? Does the rhythm stay steady? Does the way you handle him get in the way of his movement? Ask an instructor who knows your breed to analyse the sequence. Analysing gaits takes experience.

3. Prepare a calm start

Before going in, a short walk lets the dog loosen up and helps you find your coordination again.

To try: prepare a simple routine: walk calmly, get into position, then set off. The aim is to arrive ready for the presentation, without tiring your dog with prolonged repetitions.

If he breaks out of the trot

If he canters, gets excited or changes gait often, take a break and come back to an easier run. Ask your instructor to check your pace and how difficult the exercise is.

If you notice lameness or discomfort, stop the session and ask a vet for advice.

A good trot is recognised by its ease, not by how fast the handler goes.

The exercises suggested are educational applications, not regulatory requirements. The illustration accompanies the text; it is not a technical diagram of the gaits.