What if your dog’s heeling got better as the pattern went on—not worse?
What if your dog’s heeling got better as the pattern went on—not worse?
When we attempt full heeling patterns, many teams struggle to maintain focus, precision, and attitude from start to finish. Backchaining flips that script—building drive, clarity, and confidence by reinforcing the end first, then layering the rest.
In this workshop, you’ll learn how to use backchaining to create powerful, enthusiastic heeling—without sacrificing accuracy or style.
You’ll learn how to:
This workshop is for teams who:
You’ll have the opportunity to work your dog, strengthening weaker components while building confidence in full patterns.
With a thoughtful approach and a bit of practice, backchaining can transform your heeling—creating a dog who finishes stronger than they start.
I have been training and competing for several decades in a variety of sports including Hunt Tests, Field Trials, Nosework, Agility and Rally. My first love has always been competition obedience. I have been fortunate to win the AKC National Obedience Championship four times with three different dogs. (Click here for full bio and to view Petra's upcoming courses)...
Enrollment limit: 13
Working participants will submit a short video (approx. 90 seconds) for instructor feedback. Limited number of spots available.
Registration dates:
May 22, 2026 - June 30, 2026
Enrollment limit: Unlimited
Unlimited number of spots available. Will receive access to all materials, may ask general questions on course materials in class forum.
Registration dates:
May 22, 2026 - June 30, 2026
We offer a variety of online training solutions designed to help you and your furry friend achieve success

Explore the questions we get asked most often and find out everything you need for a smooth experience with us.
Start by clicking on the Course Schedule link at the top of this page. If registration is open, select the course you wish to take from the list and click on that link. From that page, click on the registration link and choose the enrollment level you are interested in. This webpage describes the steps in more detail.
Registration opens on the 22nd of the month preceding the course start date (ie March 22 for courses beginning April 1st) and close on the 15th day of the month the session has started (ie April 15 for courses starting April 1st). You cannot register for 6 week courses outside of this period.
Scholarships are offered to students who do not feel they can afford the full tuition, but who have a sincere interest in expanding their skills as a dog sport trainer. Scholarships are offered in the form of a 50% tuition credit at the Bronze level. To apply, select the Scholarships link from the top menu (under new students) or click this link. We ask that if you are on a scholarship, you limit yourself to one class. There are a maximum of three scholarships per student permitted in a calendar year.
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