Episode 009 - Dog Agility Distance Handling: What is CLAWS?
Season #1
Dog Agility Distance Handling: What is CLAWS?
In this episode of the Maximum Fun Agility podcast, Lorrie Reynolds explains one of the most important concepts in dog agility training: independent obstacle performance.
You’ll learn what true obstacle independence means, why it matters for both distance handling and overall course success, and how the CLAWS system helps handlers break independence into four clear, trainable skills.
Whether your goal is to run smoother courses, improve your dog’s confidence, or successfully complete distance challenges like Gamblers, FAST, or Chances, these independence skills are essential.
Topics Covered
dog agility distance handling, independent obstacle performance, agility obstacle independence training, distance handling skills for agility dogs, dog agility CLAWS method
In This Episode You’ll Learn
• What independent obstacle performance really means in dog agility • Why many agility teams struggle with independence during distance challenges • How course design in games like Gamblers and Chances tests obstacle independence • The four key independence skills summarized by the CLAWS mnemonic • Why handlers often accidentally become part of the dog’s environmental cues
Episode Overview
Independent obstacle performance is one of the most valuable skills an agility dog can develop. When a dog truly understands an obstacle, they can perform it correctly regardless of where the handler is positioned on the course.
However, many teams unknowingly train their dogs to rely on the handler’s location or motion to complete obstacles. This becomes obvious during distance challenges, where dogs may hesitate, leave obstacles early, or return to their handler when they realize their partner is not nearby.
In this episode, Lorrie shares examples from real agility competitions where teams struggled because their dogs had not been trained for true obstacle independence. She then introduces the CLAWS system, a simple mnemonic that breaks independence training into four clear components handlers can practice.
By developing these skills, agility teams gain more flexibility on course, improve speed and positioning, and become capable of handling more advanced course challenges.
The CLAWS System for Obstacle Independence
The CLAWS mnemonic helps handlers remember the four skills required for true obstacle independence:
C – Call Over or Through Your dog should complete an obstacle correctly when you are ahead of them.
LA – Laterally Away You should be able to move laterally away from your dog after directing them to an obstacle.
W – With on a Parallel Line Your dog should maintain a parallel path with you without drifting inward toward the handler.
S – Send Ahead Your dog should confidently move ahead to complete an obstacle without turning back toward you.
When a team can successfully perform all four of these skills, they have developed strong independent obstacle performance.
Key Takeaway
True obstacle independence gives agility teams more options on course, improves speed and positioning, and makes distance handling possible. By training the four CLAWS skills, handlers can build confidence and clarity for both themselves and their dogs.
Build Independence and Confidence in Your Agility Dog
If you want structured exercises that help your dog develop independence, distance skills, and confidence on course, check out The Agility Playground.
This membership helps agility teams improve communication, obstacle performance, and distance handling through step-by-step lessons and supportive coaching.
