The jumping Merlin trial is a challenging agility course that tests both a dog’s athleticism and its connection with their handler. It requires speed, focus, and synchronization between dog and owner. While mastering the Merlin may seem daunting, with proper training and preparation, many dogs can successfully navigate this advanced agility trial.
What is the Jumping Merlin Trial?
The jumping Merlin trial, sometimes simply called the Merlin, is an agility obstacle course used in high level agility competitions. It was originally designed by agility trainer Merlin Davis as an extremely difficult course to challenge top competitors. The layout combines several jumps, weaves, and other obstacles in a flowing, fast-paced sequence that tests both a dog’s independent jumping skills and its ability to take directional commands from its handler on the fly.
While the specifics can vary between different Merlin course designs, they generally share some key features:
- Multiple long jumps in a row
- Off-course jumps situated at angles to tempt the dog away from the proper path
- Tunnels or weaves interspersed between jumps
- Jumps set at the maximum allowable height and width
- Tight turns and direction changes
- Double and triple jumps
- An emphasis on speed and continuous motion over a 55 to 65 second course
The Merlin requires a dog to clear 10-12 jumps and obstacles in a tight sequence within a standard 60 second course time. It tests both independent jumping ability, focus on the handler, and physical conditioning.
Why is the Merlin Considered Such a Challenge?
There are several key factors that make the jumping Merlin trial such a difficult agility course:
Speed and pace
The Merlin trial emphasizes speed and a continuous, rapid pace over its entirety. Typical course times range from 55-65 seconds, sometimes even faster at elite events. This requires a dog to move at a very fast speed for the full sequence without getting distracted or missing a beat.
Jump heights and distances
The jumps are all set at the maximum allowable height and distance per the dog’s size. For larger dogs, this could entail jumping 24-26 inches high over jumps set at their furthest apart distances. Jumping consistently at these heights and widths at top speed requires incredible athleticism.
Rapid direction changes
The Merlin will require a dog to rapidly change directions, often making sharp 90 degree or 180 degree turns to get to the next jump in sequence. These tight turns are challenging at a continuous fast pace and require coordination.
Off-course temptations
Well designed Merlin courses intentionally include off-course jumps situated at angles to tempt the dog away from the proper path. Going off course almost always results in a failed run. Staying focused on the handler and proper sequence is key.
Varied obstacles
While jumping skills are paramount, the Merlin also incorporates tunnels, weaves, and other obstacles in between jumps to add complexity. Mastering these different obstacles at top speed adds another layer of difficulty.
Distance challenges
At times the Merlin will require a dog to take jumps at a distance from the handler. This tests their independence and ability to take cues over longer distances.
Ideal Dog Breeds for The Merlin Trial
While dogs of all breeds and backgrounds can learn to master the Merlin trial, certain types of dogs tend to thrive at this type of course based on their physical abilities and temperament:
Border Collies
With their high energy, intelligence, agility and focus on their handlers, Border Collies are a top choice for the Merlin trial and excel at high level agility in general. Their athleticism, light body type, and intensity make them ideal for handling the speed and demands of this course.
Australian Shepherds
Similar to Border Collies in energy and athleticism, Australian Shepherds are another herding breed that often excels at the Merlin trial. Their high trainability, jumping ability, and attentiveness help them handle the rapid pace and direction changes.
Jack Russell Terriers
Despite their small size, Jack Russell Terriers possess surprising jumping skills and athleticism that can translate well to the Merlin. Their energetic and fearless nature allows them to attack the course’s challenges head on once properly trained.
Shetland Sheepdogs
Another high energy herding breed, Shelties have an agility that makes them well suited to mastering the Merlin trial. Their desire to closely follow commands and focused demeanor help them stay the course at a fast pace.
Mixed breeds
While purebred dogs have tendencies that lend themselves well to agility, mixed breed dogs that inherited the right combination of size, drive, and athleticism can also excel when properly trained. High energy mixes that are focused and have an innate enjoyment of jumping often thrive.
Preparing a Dog for The Merlin Trial
Succeeding at the Merlin requires dedication, the right foundations, and a step-by-step training process over time. While some dogs have natural talents suiting them to Merlin-style courses, any dog attempting this challenge will need extensive preparation:
Basic obedience
Rock solid basic obedience and responsiveness to commands is the foundation needed for a dog to be prepared for advanced handling on the Merlin. Sit, stay, come, heel and other cues should be second nature before moving forward.
Intermediate agility skills
Before even attempting full Merlin trial-style runs, a dog should be fully comfortable with all standard agility obstacles at speed – jumps, tunnels, weaves, teeter totters, A frames, dog walks etc. They need mastery of each individual obstacle first.
Jumping skills
Since jumping is central to the Merlin, dogs need to build confidence and ability at taking single jumps, then sequences of multiple jumps in a row at speed and at height. Gradually increase distance between jumps and height.
Directional work
Sharpening directional commands using jump sequences helps a dog learn to turn on a dime and respond to handler cues when coming off a jump at high speeds. This ability is vital on the Merlin’s tight course.
Distance work
For sections of the Merlin where the dog must move and jump away from the handler, dedicated distance training gets them responding accurately to commands from 10+ feet away while maintaining focus.
Aerobic conditioning
Building a dog’s fitness and stamina allows them to maintain the Merlin’s necessary speed and intensity from start to finish. Swimming, running, and active play help develop these traits.
Focus and engagement
Above all, engagement training where the dog closely focuses on and responds to the handler is the key skill needed to prevent going off course. Their connection translates verbal and body cues into proper execution.
Mastering Course-Specific Handling
In addition to preparing the dog through training, handlers must also develop the strategic course handling and command skills necessary to guide a dog through the Merlin’s twists and turns. This timing and positioning comes with practice.
Some key handling techniques include:
- Agility side changes – being in the proper position to cue pivots and lateral changes of direction.
- Rear cross technique – quickly changing sides behind the dog to redirect their line.
- Pre-cueing – early body cues before jumps to direct the proper path.
- Giving commands while in motion – preserving flow instead of becoming static.
- Mapping a memorized route – visualizing and practicing the full course sequence.
Developing swift judgment, timing, spatial awareness and subtle body language as a handler is an art form requiring dedicated mentoring and experience. Handlers and dogs must operate in seamless synchronization to conquer the Merlin challenge.
Conquering the Course Step-By-Step
Rather than tackling the full Merlin trial right away, it’s smart to break the course down into sections and learn each phase sequentially before piecing them together:
The opening sequence
Nailing the demanding opening series of jumps flawlessly is key. Take these first technical elements slowly and methodically to engrain them.
The middle
Smoothly maintaining the pace through the middle portion of jumps and twists will prevent wasting time. Practice gradually speeding up sequences.
The closing stretch
The final jumps are the most fatiguing. Conditioning gives endurance to drive this home with speed. Make sure to save a bit in reserve.
Connecting the dots
Once each phase is learned, start linking sections together into a full course run-through. Handling precision and timing become crucial.
The whole picture
Pulling everything together into a cohesive, smooth-flowing Merlin run is the final key. Stay within time limits and avoid wasted motion between elements.
Speed work
As execution improves, progressively reduce time through each sequence and the overall course. Speed will require practice to avoid becoming sloppy.
With measured progressions and milestones, the Merlin can go from intimidating to conquered.
Common Mistakes in Merlin Trial Training
There are some common training mistakes that first-time Merlin trainers often make which can impede progress:
- Attempting the full course prematurily before mastering individual skills
- Moving too quickly into speed work without building foundational accuracy
- Failing to work at proper jump heights early in training
- Not varying courses enough to generalize skills
- Neglecting handler training on technical handling abilities
- Insufficient fitness level and conditioning
- Low criteria for execution before moving forward
Avoiding these pitfalls and following proven progressions minimizes frustrating setbacks. Small successes build on each other incrementally into bigger breakthroughs at the proper pacing.
Drills and Exercises to Prepare for The Merlin
Some useful training drills and exercises that help instill key Merlin skills include:
Jump grids
Setting up sequences of multiple jumps in a straight line at ascending heights teaches dogs forward focus and consistency jumping at height. Start short and slow.
Threadles
Weaving through upright poles as handlers change sides quickly develops responsive direction changes and lateral agility.
Backsides
Jumping a sequence followed by a pivot and immediate reverse helps dogsswitch directions at speed while preventing falling off course.
Jump serpentines
Snaking back and forth jumping a wavy line of jumps teaches smooth flowing motion and transitions.
Tunnel / jump combinations
Incorporating the exit of a tunnel into a jumping sequence mimics the Merlin’s mixed obstacles and transitions.
Distance work
Placing challenging jumps at long distances from the handler forces dogs to self-direct confidently based on commands.
Crosses
Front and rear crosses during sequences train quick handler postition changes to guide dogs through tight turns.
Each of these targeted exercises isolates key elements required in the Merlin trial. Performing them through games and repetition ingrains the needed skills.
What to Expect at Your First Sanctioned Merlin Trial
When first competing in a sanctioned jumping Merlin challenge after completing your training, there are some things to expect and tips to keep in mind:
The course walk through
Take time to carefully study the layout and map your handling plan during the before-run walk through. Note any especially challenging spots.
Stick to foundations
Trust your dog’s foundations and initial training. Over-handling often leads to miscues. Let skills instilled through repetitions take over.
Beware nerves
Both dogs and handlers may struggle with trial jitters. Keeping your own energy loose and positive will help your dog. Breathe!
Consider your dog’s needs
If your dog seems stressed or overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to exit. You can always try again another day. Their confidence comes first.
Review your run
Win or lose, review your run with your trainer/mentor afterwards seeking areas to improve. The journey continues!
With the right perspective, a first Merlin trial should mainly serve as a fun milestone to build on rather than an endpoint. It’s another stepping stone strengthening your partnership on the road ahead.
Conclusion
While the jumping Merlin trial presents a daunting challenge requiring advanced skill, virtually any dog can successfully train to master its demands through properprogressions. By breaking down the course into attainable milestones, and focusing on building athleticism, technique, and an inseparable partnership, the Merlin can transform frompipe dream to reality. While it demands hard work and dedication along the journey, the return is an incredibly fun quest bringing handler and dog closer together through the thrill of accomplishing the extraordinary.
