Successful Start Lines - Training for the Release
Learn a different approach to start-line training. This class focuses on clear releases, connection, and a step-by-step system that keeps dogs in the thinking zone and creates reliable start lines.
SELF~PACED CLASS As soon as you sign up you will have access to the full course!
Welcome
One thing I work on in every single training session… start-lines.
Philosophy
Why Verbal Release Only
Training for the Release: Why It’s Different
Start-Lines Nervous System and Arousal
Premack Theory and Start-Line Training for the Release
Consistency
Using Stay and Release in Everyday Life
Treat Delivery & Verbal Reward Marker
Start Line Philosophy Videos
Startline Routine
Why Handler Calmness Matters at the Start-Line
When Not Leading Out Is the Best Choice
Intro to Checklists & Downloadable Checklist
Start Line Test
Release Cue Checklist
Handler Habit Start-Line Checklist
Dog Body Language Video Review
Why Dogs Break
Why Dogs Break the Start Line: Inconsistent Cues
Maintaining Criteria — Especially at Trials
Repositioning Dog on Start
Arousal Levels and Start-Line Behavior
Handler Behavior
Leading Out Too Far
Problems When Dogs Break Their Stay
What to Do If Your Dog Breaks in Training and Trials
Maintaining Criteria Part 2
Training Step Overview
Never Be Afraid to Step Back to Foundation
What to do if dog breaks
Step 1: Quick Releases
Step 2: Add Duration
Step 3: Adding Distance
Emmy & Zoomy adding duration
Come to Side
Step 4: Decoy Lead Outs
Step 5: Distractions
Toys
Step 6: Doing Obstacles — Holding Criteria at Equipment
Start-Line Before Tunnel
Step 7: Destinations. Take it on the Road
Mylie's Training
Zoomy
Emmy
Hannah- Board and Train for Start lines
Deaf Dog Starts
Key
Multiple Dog Stays
Imagine this… You step to the line at your next trial—relaxed, connected, both of you trusting the process. Your dog holds the perfect stay, eyes locked on you, tail ready to fly. You give the word—BAM! You’re off, together, every time. This isn’t some dream. This is your new normal.
Confident, Reliable Start-Lines: Turn that energy into steady focus—your dog sits or stands calm, no matter the commotion.
Reliable On-Cue Releases: Teach a predictable, verbal release that your dog waits for—no more early breaks or mixed signals.
Stay in the Thinking Zone: Even with adrenaline pumping, your dog works in their “smart brain,” not frantic auto-pilot.
All Levels, All Breeds Welcome: Works whether you’re trialing for the first time or gunning for another Championship Award
Lisa's Start Line class was a life saver! Before this class, I would stand at the start line and watch Raven's fluffy butt disappear at warp speed, running the course by her own little self....100% of the time. After 3 weeks...3 WEEKS!...of Lisa's lessons, our Start Line had an 80% success rate! Was it the Zombie Apocalypse? NO! It was Lisa's clear, down to earth instructions and teaching methods. Our start line has improved 100%....I highly recommend this class....it works!! Thanks Lisa!
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“"Lisa’s release-based approach was the missing piece for us. We finally feel like a team." ”
“"This class completely changed the way I approach the start line. My dog is more focused, I’m more confident, and our runs feel so much smoother."”
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