It is expected that the workshop dogs have been trained using the methods in the Mike Lardy tapes, manuals, and article collections. If dogs have come through other programs, the workshop activities may not be as useful and fair for the dog as desired.

All participants must be using Total Retriever Training with Mike Lardy, Total Retriever Marking with Mike Lardy and Training with Mike Lardy Volume I, II and Volume III Total E-Collar Conditioning is required all workshops. The materials provide a common basis for communication about the training.

It is highly recommended, but not required, that participants attend the Basic Transition Workshop as an Observer for their first experience. Those who have attended first as Basic/Transition Observer will have a higher priority to be accepted as a Handler/Dog Team in either level of workshop, the next time they apply.

• In-depth discussions and demonstrations of Mike’s philosophy and techniques;
• Individual guidance and feedback in yard work, drills, marks, and blinds;
• Effective problem solving techniques;
• Rationales for marking and blind designs;
• Skill development in running marks and handling on blinds;
• Praise and correction techniques;
• Increasing skills in reading your dog and decision making;
• Techniques for line manner development and other useful routines;
• Demonstrations and techniques on how to deal with factors such as wind and terrain;
• Understanding of training decisions for dogs at various levels;
• Ample time for questions by both handlers and observers;
• Notebooks and other materials.

The first day, Thursday, will begin with coffee and an introductory meeting at Mike’s home. After the meeting, the participants will watch Handjem dogs. Mike will give mini-lectures while the Handjem dogs are being trained. He will explain the rationale for how Handjem dogs are trained; the setups used, and discuss the training principles seen in action. Background of each dog will be provided. All participants can ask questions on any retriever training topic.

On Thursday afternoon Mike will begin working with the Workshop dogs and handlers. The workshop evolves as the individual needs of the handler/dog teams are observed. There is not a pre-determined schedule of types of activities. However, efforts will be made to assure that all types of appropriate experiences are included. Demonstration dogs will be used as needed. Mike provides extensive feedback as well as the rationale for why various techniques are used. Generally, all handler/dog teams will have equal numbers of setups.

A brief break will be taken at lunch time each day, but there will not be time to leave to go into town for lunch. Participants bring their own lunch and beverages daily, as well as chairs, rain gear, a variety of clothing for both warm and cold days, suntan lotion, and bug spray. Notebooks will be provided with a variety of information, including recommended restaurants. On Thursday Evening, Mike will host a dinner at a local restaurant or at his home.

There are no spaces for people accompanying participants and not interested in learning about training. There are many local tourist attractions that they will enjoy. Traveling companions may attend the dinner for an additional charge, if arranged in advance.

Snapshots may be taken of any activity. Audio taping by a handler, as Mike works with them, will be allowed. No video taping is allowed at any time.

Maps and more information will be sent to those accepted.