Patterns & Handling – Michael McManus – Monday, February 23 – 9:30am

Patterns & Handling: Guiding the Search Without Getting in the Way
Great searches don’t happen by accident, they’re shaped by thoughtful patterns and intentional handling. In Patterns & Handling, we’ll explore how the choices you make with your body, leash, and hide placement influence your dog’s search far more than most handlers realize.

This seminar focuses on developing effective search patterns that promote independence, confidence, and thorough coverage — without micromanaging or restricting the dog. We’ll examine how handlers can use positioning, motion, and restraint to support the search rather than interfere with it, and how poor handling habits can unintentionally create gaps, missed hides, or dependency.

You’ll learn how to:

• Use patterning to create clarity in large or complex search areas
• Handle in ways that support independent problem-solving
• Recognize when your handling is helping — and when it’s hurting
• Adapt patterns and handling strategies to different environments, dogs, and search goals

This seminar is appropriate for all levels, from teams building foundations to experienced competitors refining efficiency and strategy. Whether you tend to over-handle, under-handle, or aren’t sure what you’re doing at all, this seminar will give you tools to move with purpose and intention.

Handle less. Communicate better. Let the dog do the work.

Cost is $250 for members, $280 for non-members. Auditing is $40. To audit, please email the registrar to request a spot.

Registrar: Mary Grace Buckwalter

Email Mary Grace with questions about registration.