Tips, tricks and foxtrot during dog show at Central Districts Field Days
One of Chelsea Marriner's dogs shows off his skills during a display. Murray Wilson/ Fairfax NZ
Riding skateboards, jumping through hoops and stacking bowls are just some of the tricks Chelsea Marriner's team of clever canines are able to perform.
Rip, a Heading dog, showed of his skills in front of crowds of spectators at the Central Districts Field Days in Feilding on Friday.
Chelsea Marriner , who has trained her 12 dogs to perform such feats, is holding dog shows throughout the three-day event, which ends on Saturday.
On Friday, with the help of Chelsea's mother Alix Marriner as commentator, Rip impressed onlookers by weaving through his trainer's feet while skating along the grass.
"He asked Santa for a skateboard. He's got one adapted for the grass and he's got a proper one to use at the skate park," Alix told the crowd.
Each dog has its own story that matches its personality, and they even have chores such as helping with the dishes. "Spy is the girl of the family. If she was human she would be a model or an air hostess." Spy enjoyed sunbathing, ballet and foxtrot, Alix said, as Chelsea danced with the dog.
Although it was all fun and games, the dog show also helped people understand the importance of training dogs. If dogs are not trained both the dog and the owner suffers, Chelsea Marriner said. "They are not able to take [the dogs] to the park without it. Training is important for their sake and the dog's."
Marriner, who is based in Rotorua, helps teach people basic training skills.
It could take about two and a half years to properly train a dog but basic tricks, such as getting a dog to sit, could be taught within days, Marriner said.
The dog shows at the Field Days runs from 10.30am to 2.30pm every day, with the chance to chat with Chelsea while the dogs take a break between performances.
- Stuff
Rip, a Heading dog, showed of his skills in front of crowds of spectators at the Central Districts Field Days in Feilding on Friday.
Chelsea Marriner , who has trained her 12 dogs to perform such feats, is holding dog shows throughout the three-day event, which ends on Saturday.
On Friday, with the help of Chelsea's mother Alix Marriner as commentator, Rip impressed onlookers by weaving through his trainer's feet while skating along the grass.
"He asked Santa for a skateboard. He's got one adapted for the grass and he's got a proper one to use at the skate park," Alix told the crowd.
Each dog has its own story that matches its personality, and they even have chores such as helping with the dishes. "Spy is the girl of the family. If she was human she would be a model or an air hostess." Spy enjoyed sunbathing, ballet and foxtrot, Alix said, as Chelsea danced with the dog.
Although it was all fun and games, the dog show also helped people understand the importance of training dogs. If dogs are not trained both the dog and the owner suffers, Chelsea Marriner said. "They are not able to take [the dogs] to the park without it. Training is important for their sake and the dog's."
Marriner, who is based in Rotorua, helps teach people basic training skills.
It could take about two and a half years to properly train a dog but basic tricks, such as getting a dog to sit, could be taught within days, Marriner said.
The dog shows at the Field Days runs from 10.30am to 2.30pm every day, with the chance to chat with Chelsea while the dogs take a break between performances.
- Stuff
Chelsea's dogs show their moves
How to teach a dog to recycle? Photo / Chris Steel
Fresh from competing at an agility competition in Taupo, Chelsea Marriner and her team were a hit at Sunday's A&P Show in Katikati.
Chelsea gave three performances throughout the day assisted by her mum, Alix Marriner, as commentator.
Adults and children were in awe of the dog trainer as the four-legged stars stacked bowls, jumped through hoops, weaved through her legs as she walked, pushed a stroller, and even said their prayers.
The 25-year-old lives on a four-acre lifestyle block in Rotorua with her parents and has 12 working dogs, all border collies.
She works with them every day both as a pack and individually - and is in demand around the country to perform at field days and A&P shows. She also has her eldest dog, Quest, and a seven-month old pup in training.
Chelsea first realised her love of working with animals, and especially dogs, when she was a toddler. Alix said when Chelsea was three she watched television show, Wonder Dogs and said 'my dog can do that' and she had her dog doing all sorts of things. Brodi was her first dog, a pup she stole from her dad. At 7 she went into agility and at 10 was a winner in the SPCA Animal Ark Young Animal Carer of the Year.
At 17 she represented New Zealand at the World Agility Championships in England and in 2008 debuted on national television on the show, New Zealand's Got Talent.
Chelsea's reward comes from seeing people of all ages share her enjoyment of what her dogs can do, and she has a busy year ahead.
She will be one of the star attractions at the annual Te Puke A&P Show this weekend.
While she loves training and doing tricks with the dogs, she admits her dream job is shepherding. "I do some casual farm work and love it."
- Katikati Advertiser
By Chris Steel
Chelsea gave three performances throughout the day assisted by her mum, Alix Marriner, as commentator.
Adults and children were in awe of the dog trainer as the four-legged stars stacked bowls, jumped through hoops, weaved through her legs as she walked, pushed a stroller, and even said their prayers.
The 25-year-old lives on a four-acre lifestyle block in Rotorua with her parents and has 12 working dogs, all border collies.
She works with them every day both as a pack and individually - and is in demand around the country to perform at field days and A&P shows. She also has her eldest dog, Quest, and a seven-month old pup in training.
Chelsea first realised her love of working with animals, and especially dogs, when she was a toddler. Alix said when Chelsea was three she watched television show, Wonder Dogs and said 'my dog can do that' and she had her dog doing all sorts of things. Brodi was her first dog, a pup she stole from her dad. At 7 she went into agility and at 10 was a winner in the SPCA Animal Ark Young Animal Carer of the Year.
At 17 she represented New Zealand at the World Agility Championships in England and in 2008 debuted on national television on the show, New Zealand's Got Talent.
Chelsea's reward comes from seeing people of all ages share her enjoyment of what her dogs can do, and she has a busy year ahead.
She will be one of the star attractions at the annual Te Puke A&P Show this weekend.
While she loves training and doing tricks with the dogs, she admits her dream job is shepherding. "I do some casual farm work and love it."
- Katikati Advertiser
By Chris Steel
Chelsea Marriner has spectators in awe with dog show tricks
DAVID UNWIN/FAIRFAX NZ
VICTORIA CRAFAR
Adults were in awe and children spellbound by dog trainer Chelsea Marriner and her team of dogs at Central Districts Field Days.
While it was never her intention to headline a travelling dog-trick show, what has driven her to keep going has been the opportunity to show people how wonderful canines can be.
"I guess it's one of those things that you never planned to do... but it's good for people to see what dogs can do in a positive light instead of under bad headlines," the Bay of Plenty-based Marriner said.
Marriner first realised her love of working with animals, and especially dogs, when she was a toddler.
"I stole the pup Dad that brought home. Her name was Brodi."
Watching television show Wonder Dogs from age seven drove her to achieve more and more with her four-legged buddies to the point where her pleasure has also become her business and sport.
At age 18, Chelsea represented New Zealand at the World Agility Championships in England and a few years later made her New Zealand television debut on New Zealand's Got Talent.
She said she was never in to win the talent show, but it was a great platform to exhibit how much of a bond can be formed between humans and canines.
Operating under Dogmatic Dog Trick Team, Marriner teams up with her mother Alix to put on public shows.
Chelsea Marriner said the two main things she has learnt through training her dogs has been patience and perserverance. "It has been [out of my comfort zone] and still is, it's taken us both out of our comfort zones," Alix Marriner said.
"You'll always get out what you put in."
Her domestic zoo consists of 11 dogs, two cats, one kitten, one Flemish giant rabbit called Twitch and 11 sheep.
"One for each dog," she joked.
Adults were in awe and children spellbound by dog trainer Chelsea Marriner and her team of dogs at Central Districts Field Days.
While it was never her intention to headline a travelling dog-trick show, what has driven her to keep going has been the opportunity to show people how wonderful canines can be.
"I guess it's one of those things that you never planned to do... but it's good for people to see what dogs can do in a positive light instead of under bad headlines," the Bay of Plenty-based Marriner said.
Marriner first realised her love of working with animals, and especially dogs, when she was a toddler.
"I stole the pup Dad that brought home. Her name was Brodi."
Watching television show Wonder Dogs from age seven drove her to achieve more and more with her four-legged buddies to the point where her pleasure has also become her business and sport.
At age 18, Chelsea represented New Zealand at the World Agility Championships in England and a few years later made her New Zealand television debut on New Zealand's Got Talent.
She said she was never in to win the talent show, but it was a great platform to exhibit how much of a bond can be formed between humans and canines.
Operating under Dogmatic Dog Trick Team, Marriner teams up with her mother Alix to put on public shows.
Chelsea Marriner said the two main things she has learnt through training her dogs has been patience and perserverance. "It has been [out of my comfort zone] and still is, it's taken us both out of our comfort zones," Alix Marriner said.
"You'll always get out what you put in."
Her domestic zoo consists of 11 dogs, two cats, one kitten, one Flemish giant rabbit called Twitch and 11 sheep.
"One for each dog," she joked.
Skateboarding dogs impress Fieldays crowd
Chelsea Marriner’s 10 dogs are anything but ordinary.
As well as being able to sit on command she has trained her dogs to skateboard, jump through hoops and perform ballet, just to name a few.
Marriner and her dogs are well known to New Zealanders after they competed on New Zealand’s Got Talent in October 2012, an experience that she said has opened up more opportunities. “This is the fifth year we’ve done Fieldays,” Marriner said. “This year we’ve brought three young dogs in and done more with them. So we’ve sort of started from scratch with the dogs and the routine.”
The reaction from the crowd was very positive. Fieldays visitor Pam Chitty said the show was “absolutely wonderful.” “My favourite was the skateboarding dogs. They were just all really, really amazing and obviously very intelligent dogs,” Chitty said.
Marriner said she stole her dad’s puppy when she was two and that’s when it all started for her.
“I stole his puppy and got into a bit of trouble of him, and then I saw Wonder Dogs when I was four and I decided if they could do it then I could too,” Marriner said.
Marriner, who is celebrating her 22nd birthday today, said that it usually takes a couple of years to train each dog the tricks and she spends most mornings training.
All dogs are heading dogs and were bred to work on the farm. Marriner said that while they love the tricks, sheep farming is what they really love to do.
“They hear quads and see metal roads and they’re just hanging out the window. They love it.”
After Fieldays, Dogmatic has a competition down in Hawera for agility and then dog trials there the following week.
As well as being able to sit on command she has trained her dogs to skateboard, jump through hoops and perform ballet, just to name a few.
Marriner and her dogs are well known to New Zealanders after they competed on New Zealand’s Got Talent in October 2012, an experience that she said has opened up more opportunities. “This is the fifth year we’ve done Fieldays,” Marriner said. “This year we’ve brought three young dogs in and done more with them. So we’ve sort of started from scratch with the dogs and the routine.”
The reaction from the crowd was very positive. Fieldays visitor Pam Chitty said the show was “absolutely wonderful.” “My favourite was the skateboarding dogs. They were just all really, really amazing and obviously very intelligent dogs,” Chitty said.
Marriner said she stole her dad’s puppy when she was two and that’s when it all started for her.
“I stole his puppy and got into a bit of trouble of him, and then I saw Wonder Dogs when I was four and I decided if they could do it then I could too,” Marriner said.
Marriner, who is celebrating her 22nd birthday today, said that it usually takes a couple of years to train each dog the tricks and she spends most mornings training.
All dogs are heading dogs and were bred to work on the farm. Marriner said that while they love the tricks, sheep farming is what they really love to do.
“They hear quads and see metal roads and they’re just hanging out the window. They love it.”
After Fieldays, Dogmatic has a competition down in Hawera for agility and then dog trials there the following week.
Rotorua dog trainer has dream of being a shepherd
Rotorua woman Chelsea Marriner's life has gone to the dogs, and she would have it no other way.
The 22-year-old, who owns 10 dogs and has her own dog training business, was at the Southern Field Days near Gore this week.
She has been training dogs for nearly 15 years, holding her first demonstration with heading dog Brodi when she was 8 years old.
Her dogs are all bred as farm dogs, and take two and a-half years to train from a puppy to a ''good standard.''
While her ''ultimate dream'' was to be a shepherd, she loved training her dogs and teaching others how to train their canine companions.
''They would rather work stock than do anything else.''
''They are really smart, and quick to learn. They are full of energy, and get quite excited when performing.''
Miss Marriner jumped at the opportunity to take part in Southern Field Days, performing under her ''Dogmatic'' banner.
Her trip south had only increased her desire to take up shepherding, she told the Otago Daily Times yesterday.
''Driving down here we passed all the beautiful open spaces ... the farmland.''
At the last national agility competitions, Miss Marriner ran seven dogs, which made for a busy day, she said.
''I'd rather be in a rush than doing nothing.''
The second-oldest of her dogs, Quest (11), became national agility grand champion before he recently retired from competitions.
And the key to well-trained dogs?
''Consistency and exercise. If you are consistent, and keep them exercised, they are happy.''
Miss Marriner and her dogs will be performing at Dunedin schools over the next month, and will also be at the Upper Clutha and Southland A&P Shows.
The 22-year-old, who owns 10 dogs and has her own dog training business, was at the Southern Field Days near Gore this week.
She has been training dogs for nearly 15 years, holding her first demonstration with heading dog Brodi when she was 8 years old.
Her dogs are all bred as farm dogs, and take two and a-half years to train from a puppy to a ''good standard.''
While her ''ultimate dream'' was to be a shepherd, she loved training her dogs and teaching others how to train their canine companions.
''They would rather work stock than do anything else.''
''They are really smart, and quick to learn. They are full of energy, and get quite excited when performing.''
Miss Marriner jumped at the opportunity to take part in Southern Field Days, performing under her ''Dogmatic'' banner.
Her trip south had only increased her desire to take up shepherding, she told the Otago Daily Times yesterday.
''Driving down here we passed all the beautiful open spaces ... the farmland.''
At the last national agility competitions, Miss Marriner ran seven dogs, which made for a busy day, she said.
''I'd rather be in a rush than doing nothing.''
The second-oldest of her dogs, Quest (11), became national agility grand champion before he recently retired from competitions.
And the key to well-trained dogs?
''Consistency and exercise. If you are consistent, and keep them exercised, they are happy.''
Miss Marriner and her dogs will be performing at Dunedin schools over the next month, and will also be at the Upper Clutha and Southland A&P Shows.
Show organiser happy with turnout
Despite a slow start and a chill in the air, organisers of the Southland A&P Show were delighted with the turnout, which they say was bigger than last year.
Show executive officer Steph Mouat said an estimated count at the Donovan Park gate showed about 7000 people attended the show in Invercargill on Saturday , compared with 6000 people last year.
"It was a good day out, we are really happy with the numbers," she said.
Venture Southland event manager Jade Gillies, who helped organise the event, said everyone was pleased with how the day went.
"It went like clockwork," he said.
Other attractions on the day included performances from circus act Rob FireNix, who entertained with his fire antics, and Dogmatic from New Zealand's Got Talent.
Dogmatic trainer and performer Chelsea Marriner said she had been on the road with her nine performing dogs for about five weeks and she was loving the southern hospitality.
Attendee Hayley Grayling said she went to the A&P Show every year because it was fun for the kids.
Her daughter, Bella, had especially loved the Dogmatic show, she said.
Show executive officer Steph Mouat said an estimated count at the Donovan Park gate showed about 7000 people attended the show in Invercargill on Saturday , compared with 6000 people last year.
"It was a good day out, we are really happy with the numbers," she said.
Venture Southland event manager Jade Gillies, who helped organise the event, said everyone was pleased with how the day went.
"It went like clockwork," he said.
Other attractions on the day included performances from circus act Rob FireNix, who entertained with his fire antics, and Dogmatic from New Zealand's Got Talent.
Dogmatic trainer and performer Chelsea Marriner said she had been on the road with her nine performing dogs for about five weeks and she was loving the southern hospitality.
Attendee Hayley Grayling said she went to the A&P Show every year because it was fun for the kids.
Her daughter, Bella, had especially loved the Dogmatic show, she said.
Southland A&P Show on this weekend.
February 27, 2014
A talented troupe of dogs, southern entertainers and strong entries for competitions could make this year’s SBS Bank Southland A&P Show on March 1 and 2 the most action-packed ever.
SBS Bank Southland A&P Show executive officer Stephanie Mouat said entries were looking fantastic – with a significant rise in the cattle and equestrian competition entries.
“Being at Donovan Park we’ve found our niche. It provides a relaxing atmosphere for families and others to attend,” she said.
One of the major drawcards for children and adults will be Dogmatic, which comprises Chelsea Marriner and her multi-talented troupe of border collies. Dogmatic reached the semi-finals of New Zealand's Got Talent in 2012.
A talented troupe of dogs, southern entertainers and strong entries for competitions could make this year’s SBS Bank Southland A&P Show on March 1 and 2 the most action-packed ever.
SBS Bank Southland A&P Show executive officer Stephanie Mouat said entries were looking fantastic – with a significant rise in the cattle and equestrian competition entries.
“Being at Donovan Park we’ve found our niche. It provides a relaxing atmosphere for families and others to attend,” she said.
One of the major drawcards for children and adults will be Dogmatic, which comprises Chelsea Marriner and her multi-talented troupe of border collies. Dogmatic reached the semi-finals of New Zealand's Got Talent in 2012.
Chelsea's dogs impress NZ's Got Talent judges
Rotorua's Chelsea Marriner and her dogs have made it through to the next round of New Zealand's Got Talent.
Chelsea Marriner, 21, and her four dogs Quest, Flash, Spy and Shift were successful in their audition for TVNZ's New Zealand's Got Talent and have qualified for the next round of the show.
Miss Marriner, whose dogs performed tricks involving boogie boards, walking on their back legs and jumping on to her back, said she was still in the process of training for her next routine but getting through to the next round was "very good".
"I was really pleased with the performance," she said.
Miss Marriner first appeared on the talent show in 2008 when it aired on Prime television and she made it into the top eight.
She said she decided to re-enter because of the amount of recent dog attacks and wanted people to realise dogs were not always out to attack people.
"It's great people can see what dogs can do in a good light," she said.
Miss Marriner, who got her first dog when she was 2, said she started teaching her dogs tricks about five or six years ago.
"I love working with dogs because they are always attentive and keen to learn something new. They are constantly energetic and wanting to have a good time."
She said she would next appear on the show midway through this month and encouraged others to give talent competitions a go.
"I have not yet thought ahead to what I would do if I won. I am just taking one day at a time," she said.
Performing dogs bring joy to home
Rotorua dog trainer extraordinaire Chelsea Marriner has spread a bit of Christmas cheer this year by performing shows for some of the city's older citizens.
Miss Marriner and her dogs Quest and Bree have been performing for the residents of Rotorua's Whare Aroha and Fergusson Home.
Visiting the residents at the homes was something she, her dogs and the audiences enjoyed.
"It's something fun for them to do, they all loved watching the dogs and giving them a bit of a pat afterwards," Miss Marriner said.
"It's a good feeling and you can walk away knowing you have left a few smiles on people's faces," she said.
Fergusson Home activities co-ordinator Linda MacKenzie said the show was a massive hit with the home's residents, many of whom used to keep pets but were unable to do so while living at the home.
"Chelsea made the offer through her grandparents Bob and Barbara Nairn. It was a lovely Christmas present for the residents.
They absolutely loved the show and they have all seen Chelsea on TV as well. It was great entertainment," she said.
Chelsea's grandparents also had a big hand in their granddaughter's career.
Mrs Nairn originally bought the dog Quest while Mr Nairn bought Bree, another of Chelsea's dogs.
There has been some friendly rivalry between them as to which was the higher achieving pooch.
But Chelsea can't pick, or won't tell, which of her dogs is the best.
"They are both awesome," she told The Daily Post.
Miss Marriner and her dogs Quest and Bree have been performing for the residents of Rotorua's Whare Aroha and Fergusson Home.
Visiting the residents at the homes was something she, her dogs and the audiences enjoyed.
"It's something fun for them to do, they all loved watching the dogs and giving them a bit of a pat afterwards," Miss Marriner said.
"It's a good feeling and you can walk away knowing you have left a few smiles on people's faces," she said.
Fergusson Home activities co-ordinator Linda MacKenzie said the show was a massive hit with the home's residents, many of whom used to keep pets but were unable to do so while living at the home.
"Chelsea made the offer through her grandparents Bob and Barbara Nairn. It was a lovely Christmas present for the residents.
They absolutely loved the show and they have all seen Chelsea on TV as well. It was great entertainment," she said.
Chelsea's grandparents also had a big hand in their granddaughter's career.
Mrs Nairn originally bought the dog Quest while Mr Nairn bought Bree, another of Chelsea's dogs.
There has been some friendly rivalry between them as to which was the higher achieving pooch.
But Chelsea can't pick, or won't tell, which of her dogs is the best.
"They are both awesome," she told The Daily Post.
Smiling faces all around at show
Thumping good weather, massive crowds and smiling faces everywhere characterised this year’s Cambridge A&P Show at the Cambridge Raceway at the weekend.
A&P Show secretary and treasurer, Robyn Brettell, said on Monday that widespread opinion deemed the show had drawn greater numbers than ever before – although an actual gate count is impossible as there is no gate charge and there are multiple entry points.
‘‘There were fewer trade stands than last year, but those who were there said they did a roaring trade – they were very happy. The weather really pulled in the crowds, and absolutely every square inch of the place was covered.’’
Robyn said the hands-on approach was again a great winner with the children. ‘‘Kids were wandering around leading alpacas or able to touch the miniature ponies.’’
It was great fun for them.’’
One of the popular features this year was the appearance of Chelsea Marriner and her Dog Stars trick dog team.
A&P Show secretary and treasurer, Robyn Brettell, said on Monday that widespread opinion deemed the show had drawn greater numbers than ever before – although an actual gate count is impossible as there is no gate charge and there are multiple entry points.
‘‘There were fewer trade stands than last year, but those who were there said they did a roaring trade – they were very happy. The weather really pulled in the crowds, and absolutely every square inch of the place was covered.’’
Robyn said the hands-on approach was again a great winner with the children. ‘‘Kids were wandering around leading alpacas or able to touch the miniature ponies.’’
It was great fun for them.’’
One of the popular features this year was the appearance of Chelsea Marriner and her Dog Stars trick dog team.
Kawerau Woodfest Dog Star Show
The Kawerau Woodfest Dog Star Show is a fantastic piece of entertainment sure to please and amuse all ages. For the first time at Kawerau Woodfest we welcome Chelsea Marriner and her incredibly talent group of intelligent dogs.
The Dog Stars have been pleasing the crowds for years with performances at Fieldays, New Zealand’s Got Talent, Coca Cola Christmas in the Park and almost every A&P show throughout the land. You can expect plenty of laughs as the team of dogs show off their almost human like natures whilst their talented trainer Chelsea delivers her quirky sense of humour.
Chelsea is one of New Zealand’s finest dog trainers and has a record of trophies with none more impressive than her gold medal at the IFCS World dog agility champs in 2012 in the UK.
The Woodfest Dog Stars will perform six half hour shows over the weekend, so make sure you don’t miss this amazing free attraction.
The Dog Stars have been pleasing the crowds for years with performances at Fieldays, New Zealand’s Got Talent, Coca Cola Christmas in the Park and almost every A&P show throughout the land. You can expect plenty of laughs as the team of dogs show off their almost human like natures whilst their talented trainer Chelsea delivers her quirky sense of humour.
Chelsea is one of New Zealand’s finest dog trainers and has a record of trophies with none more impressive than her gold medal at the IFCS World dog agility champs in 2012 in the UK.
The Woodfest Dog Stars will perform six half hour shows over the weekend, so make sure you don’t miss this amazing free attraction.
Dog star loves being leader of pack
CHELSEA MARRINER'S life has definitely gone to the dogs and the Mamaku teenager is clearly the leader of her canine pack of nine border collies.
The 19-year-old, who won Television New Zealand's Wonder Dogs series in 2005, has won dozens of dog shows through the years. In 2010 she proved she could cut it with the best by winning the world agility championships in England with a "borrowed" dog. "It was so cool - the highlight of the year," she said.
Ms Marriner has been training dogs since she was given her first pup, Brodi, by murdered Hawkes Bay farmer Jack Nicholas. Since then she has dedicated her life to her canine pack. She has started up her own online business, Dog Stars, and has been competing in agility for the past 12 years. Most of her pack are flygility or agility champions and a few have even reached grand-champion status.
When The Daily Post caught up with Ms Marriner and her dogs, she was preparing to take them on a motocross ride for Christmas. And it was clear she was the leader - all nine waited for her nod of approval before going through an open gate.
She can't imagine life without them at her side and no one dog has captured her heart more than the others. "I don't have favourites. It's like kids - you shouldn't have favourites," she said. However, Ms Marriner did spend eight days in Australia without them this year. "It was just awesome ... it's been a full-on year."
She said training border collies was easy. "They are just aware and quick to please. They are extremely enjoyable and goofy at times. They like being silly."
The dogs are her life. "You have a job you can change any time you like, but dogs are for a lifetime."
As an avid reader, Ms Marriner has also started writing children's's books, introducing young readers to her pack in the hope it may encourage them to read.
Her mother, Alex Marriner, said it was good to see her home-schooled daughter do so well with her dogs and share them with other dog-lovers. "New Zealand is really not big enough for her to do what she wants. She is absolutely committed.
The 19-year-old, who won Television New Zealand's Wonder Dogs series in 2005, has won dozens of dog shows through the years. In 2010 she proved she could cut it with the best by winning the world agility championships in England with a "borrowed" dog. "It was so cool - the highlight of the year," she said.
Ms Marriner has been training dogs since she was given her first pup, Brodi, by murdered Hawkes Bay farmer Jack Nicholas. Since then she has dedicated her life to her canine pack. She has started up her own online business, Dog Stars, and has been competing in agility for the past 12 years. Most of her pack are flygility or agility champions and a few have even reached grand-champion status.
When The Daily Post caught up with Ms Marriner and her dogs, she was preparing to take them on a motocross ride for Christmas. And it was clear she was the leader - all nine waited for her nod of approval before going through an open gate.
She can't imagine life without them at her side and no one dog has captured her heart more than the others. "I don't have favourites. It's like kids - you shouldn't have favourites," she said. However, Ms Marriner did spend eight days in Australia without them this year. "It was just awesome ... it's been a full-on year."
She said training border collies was easy. "They are just aware and quick to please. They are extremely enjoyable and goofy at times. They like being silly."
The dogs are her life. "You have a job you can change any time you like, but dogs are for a lifetime."
As an avid reader, Ms Marriner has also started writing children's's books, introducing young readers to her pack in the hope it may encourage them to read.
Her mother, Alex Marriner, said it was good to see her home-schooled daughter do so well with her dogs and share them with other dog-lovers. "New Zealand is really not big enough for her to do what she wants. She is absolutely committed.
Chelsea's Amazing Dog Stars
Working dogs have always had a fascination for town and country alike at New Zealand rural shows and the Northland Field Days will be welcoming back standout displays by Chelsea Marriner and her Amazing Dog Stars.
Chelsea has a variety of working Border Collies she has taught a range of unusual tricks. She will be at the Northland Toyota Sheep Dog Trials area on Friday and Saturday performing two shows daily Friday, 12.30 and 2.30 and Saturday; 12.00 and 3.00. Check out the PA announcements.
Chelsea is still in her teens and she has already built up a long list of public appearances — not least as a hugely popular attraction at Auckland’s Royal Easter Show. She has also had TV appearances including on New Zealand’s Got Talent. She says a strong bond with her dogs is a major part of their performances.
“I think if you have a strong bond with your dog they sort of know what you’re thinking and what you want them to do anyway,” she says.
Her Border Collies will entertain and delight visitors with the tricks and stunts which rocketed her to fame during the televised talent show. Since then, Chelsea and her dogs have travelled the country performing. It has become her hobby and income.
“The dogs really love to show off all their tricks, and people are often amazed at the focus and enthusiasm they put into their performances,” says Chelsea. The dogs are regular competitors at agility, flygility and canine freestyle events around New Zealand. Chelsea has been competing in agility events for the past 11 years.
She performed her first shows at school sports days when she was eight. Now she spends all day exercising, grooming, feeding and teaching the dogs new tricks. It takes patience and perseverance but the breed is naturally hyperactive and they pick things up quickly, she says.
“I teach them in a fun way, which means they enjoy it, however sometimes they enjoy it too much and go off course! Border Collies are working farm dogs so they need an incredible amount of exercise and discipline to be well behaved but they are so willing to please it makes them fun dogs to work with and train.”
The Border Collie is descended from droving and gathering breeds originating on the Scottish-English and Welsh-English borders and the ‘Collie’ or ‘Colley’ type first appeared toward the end of the 19th century. One Internet source makes the claim that Australia is recognised as the ‘country of development’ of the modern day Border Collie.
Visitors to the Northland Field Days might be of the opinion that Chelsea and her dogs show that New Zealand is the new mecca for the breed.
Chelsea has a variety of working Border Collies she has taught a range of unusual tricks. She will be at the Northland Toyota Sheep Dog Trials area on Friday and Saturday performing two shows daily Friday, 12.30 and 2.30 and Saturday; 12.00 and 3.00. Check out the PA announcements.
Chelsea is still in her teens and she has already built up a long list of public appearances — not least as a hugely popular attraction at Auckland’s Royal Easter Show. She has also had TV appearances including on New Zealand’s Got Talent. She says a strong bond with her dogs is a major part of their performances.
“I think if you have a strong bond with your dog they sort of know what you’re thinking and what you want them to do anyway,” she says.
Her Border Collies will entertain and delight visitors with the tricks and stunts which rocketed her to fame during the televised talent show. Since then, Chelsea and her dogs have travelled the country performing. It has become her hobby and income.
“The dogs really love to show off all their tricks, and people are often amazed at the focus and enthusiasm they put into their performances,” says Chelsea. The dogs are regular competitors at agility, flygility and canine freestyle events around New Zealand. Chelsea has been competing in agility events for the past 11 years.
She performed her first shows at school sports days when she was eight. Now she spends all day exercising, grooming, feeding and teaching the dogs new tricks. It takes patience and perseverance but the breed is naturally hyperactive and they pick things up quickly, she says.
“I teach them in a fun way, which means they enjoy it, however sometimes they enjoy it too much and go off course! Border Collies are working farm dogs so they need an incredible amount of exercise and discipline to be well behaved but they are so willing to please it makes them fun dogs to work with and train.”
The Border Collie is descended from droving and gathering breeds originating on the Scottish-English and Welsh-English borders and the ‘Collie’ or ‘Colley’ type first appeared toward the end of the 19th century. One Internet source makes the claim that Australia is recognised as the ‘country of development’ of the modern day Border Collie.
Visitors to the Northland Field Days might be of the opinion that Chelsea and her dogs show that New Zealand is the new mecca for the breed.
Chelsea's dogs shine at Fieldays
by Samantha van der Sande | Wednesday, 23 June 2010
Move over Lassie, there's some new pooches on the block and they're keen to show their tricks!
Visitors to this year's Mystery Creek Fieldays were treated to a fine display of dog agility from Rotorua's Chelsea Marriner and her team of 'dog stars'. Hundreds of dazzled onlookers watched as Chelsea's dogs were put through their paces, performing an array of tricks from fetching cold drinks from a chilly bin, washing their own paws and holding a flag.
Four dogs performed individually throughout each show, each dog having its own key tricks and being controlled only by the subtlest of voice and hand commands. One dog even displayed dressage movements - something usually reserved for finely bred riding horses! The variety of tricks shown only added to Chelsea's credibility as a highly talented and dedicated dog trainer.
As the dogs dashed and darted throughout tunnels and leaped through hoops, Chelsea's mother (Alix Marriner) provided a witty and entertaining commentary about the dogs' background and training regimes.
Chelsea has forged a name for herself as a dog agility trainer and has built up her show team of dogs with which she appears at various shows and events throughout New Zealand. But it's no surprise that Chelsea and her dogs are agility champions considering Chelsea's been performing with dogs since she was eight years old!
It all started when Chelsea took over her father's twelve week old pup after insisting the puppy should be hers at the young age of 2 and a half years old. Since then, she's never looked back and now with seven very talented agility dogs and a very enthusiastic young pup in tow, Chelsea spends all day training and playing with her dogs and states "The dogs are my life".
Chelsea set up her current business venture 'Chelsea and the Dog Stars' approximately three years ago, and while she's now in hot demand for shows and events, and even the occasional television commercial, Chelsea's also a successful dog agility competitor!
Last year Chelsea claimed the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th placings at a Championship Agility Show held in Hamilton, setting a national record for the only handler to take out the top five placings at a championship show.
Since then Chelsea was selected as one of three New Zealanders to compete on the dog agility competition circuit in the United Kingdom. Due to financial restraints Chelsea was unable to take her own dogs with her to compete, but defied all odds by winning gold as top handler with a borrowed dog she had barely known for three days!
For now Chelsea's dogs have come to a well earned break after four days of top class canine performance. No doubt they can be seen at a show near you in future so make sure you check out Chelsea's website for more information and show details: www.dogstars.co.nz.
Move over Lassie, there's some new pooches on the block and they're keen to show their tricks!
Visitors to this year's Mystery Creek Fieldays were treated to a fine display of dog agility from Rotorua's Chelsea Marriner and her team of 'dog stars'. Hundreds of dazzled onlookers watched as Chelsea's dogs were put through their paces, performing an array of tricks from fetching cold drinks from a chilly bin, washing their own paws and holding a flag.
Four dogs performed individually throughout each show, each dog having its own key tricks and being controlled only by the subtlest of voice and hand commands. One dog even displayed dressage movements - something usually reserved for finely bred riding horses! The variety of tricks shown only added to Chelsea's credibility as a highly talented and dedicated dog trainer.
As the dogs dashed and darted throughout tunnels and leaped through hoops, Chelsea's mother (Alix Marriner) provided a witty and entertaining commentary about the dogs' background and training regimes.
Chelsea has forged a name for herself as a dog agility trainer and has built up her show team of dogs with which she appears at various shows and events throughout New Zealand. But it's no surprise that Chelsea and her dogs are agility champions considering Chelsea's been performing with dogs since she was eight years old!
It all started when Chelsea took over her father's twelve week old pup after insisting the puppy should be hers at the young age of 2 and a half years old. Since then, she's never looked back and now with seven very talented agility dogs and a very enthusiastic young pup in tow, Chelsea spends all day training and playing with her dogs and states "The dogs are my life".
Chelsea set up her current business venture 'Chelsea and the Dog Stars' approximately three years ago, and while she's now in hot demand for shows and events, and even the occasional television commercial, Chelsea's also a successful dog agility competitor!
Last year Chelsea claimed the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th placings at a Championship Agility Show held in Hamilton, setting a national record for the only handler to take out the top five placings at a championship show.
Since then Chelsea was selected as one of three New Zealanders to compete on the dog agility competition circuit in the United Kingdom. Due to financial restraints Chelsea was unable to take her own dogs with her to compete, but defied all odds by winning gold as top handler with a borrowed dog she had barely known for three days!
For now Chelsea's dogs have come to a well earned break after four days of top class canine performance. No doubt they can be seen at a show near you in future so make sure you check out Chelsea's website for more information and show details: www.dogstars.co.nz.
Teenager proves she's a champion dog handler
Tamlyn Stewart | 19th May 2010
Rotorua's Chelsea Marriner has won gold for New Zealand at the World Agility Championships in Britain.
The 18-year-old dog handler competed at the championships over the weekend - with a borrowed dog - and won first place in the jumpers competition.
Chelsea's mother, Alix Marriner, said Sunday night had been very exciting as her daughter kept her up to date with her progress through text messages.
"At about 9.30 [Sunday] night we got a text from Chelsea to say she'd had a really good run in the jumpers competition and she was really pleased with it.
"Then she sent a text which said 'Well I do believe we just won gold at the jumpers'," Mrs Marriner told The Daily Post.
But Chelsea and her parents had to wait several hours for confirmation she had won gold.
"I didn't get much sleep [Sunday] night, I was highly excited. She said she wasn't getting excited until it was confirmed," Mrs Marriner said.
Once the win was confirmed Chelsea said it was "absolutely awesome".
The teenager also excelled in another category, missing out on a medal by just one place.
"This was with a dog she was only working with for three days," Mrs Marriner said.
Because of the expense and logistical difficulties of transporting dogs overseas, Chelsea had to use an England-based dog for the competition.
The dog's owner, Dave Jolly, told Mrs Marriner he was thrilled with the result. However, Mr Jolly said he was concerned if he made any errors when competing with his dog in future, people might suggest Chelsea run the dog instead as she could do it better.
Mrs Marriner said she was very proud. "For such a homebody of a girl she says the experience has been awesome."
Rotorua's Chelsea Marriner has won gold for New Zealand at the World Agility Championships in Britain.
The 18-year-old dog handler competed at the championships over the weekend - with a borrowed dog - and won first place in the jumpers competition.
Chelsea's mother, Alix Marriner, said Sunday night had been very exciting as her daughter kept her up to date with her progress through text messages.
"At about 9.30 [Sunday] night we got a text from Chelsea to say she'd had a really good run in the jumpers competition and she was really pleased with it.
"Then she sent a text which said 'Well I do believe we just won gold at the jumpers'," Mrs Marriner told The Daily Post.
But Chelsea and her parents had to wait several hours for confirmation she had won gold.
"I didn't get much sleep [Sunday] night, I was highly excited. She said she wasn't getting excited until it was confirmed," Mrs Marriner said.
Once the win was confirmed Chelsea said it was "absolutely awesome".
The teenager also excelled in another category, missing out on a medal by just one place.
"This was with a dog she was only working with for three days," Mrs Marriner said.
Because of the expense and logistical difficulties of transporting dogs overseas, Chelsea had to use an England-based dog for the competition.
The dog's owner, Dave Jolly, told Mrs Marriner he was thrilled with the result. However, Mr Jolly said he was concerned if he made any errors when competing with his dog in future, people might suggest Chelsea run the dog instead as she could do it better.
Mrs Marriner said she was very proud. "For such a homebody of a girl she says the experience has been awesome."
Chelsea's dogs show off new tricks
Posted on 10 June 2009 By Jono Dawson
Dog trainer Chelsea Marriner and her troupe, the Dog Stars, are up to their old (and some new) tricks at the Village Green every day during Fieldays.
Chelsea and her dogs are performing three shows a day. Chelsea says she looks forward to the performances as she enjoys the Fieldays atmosphere.
“I like the fact that a majority of people who come to Fieldays are rural types and the interaction is awesome.”
In preparation for Fieldays this year Chelsea has taught her dogs some new tricks, some of which are designed to add humour to the show. And, for the first time, Chelsea is also involved in the Rural Bachelor of the Year event where the dogs will be used for an agility/tricks heat.
But while the bachelors may be feeling the heat, nerves are not a problem for Chelsea and her dogs. They have performed at a number of events such as the Christmas in the Park and Royal Easter Shows. “The dogs love any kind of action and I’m pretty sure they get excited instead of nervous. The same goes for me!”
Chelsea, from Rotorua, appeared on the reality television show New Zealand’s Got Talent with her dog Quest. They made it to the semi-finals.
“I love working with dogs and showing people what can be achieved with time, patience and a good bond.” Her dogs are called Bree, Flash, Ikon, Spy, Shift, and Quest.
Dog trainer Chelsea Marriner and her troupe, the Dog Stars, are up to their old (and some new) tricks at the Village Green every day during Fieldays.
Chelsea and her dogs are performing three shows a day. Chelsea says she looks forward to the performances as she enjoys the Fieldays atmosphere.
“I like the fact that a majority of people who come to Fieldays are rural types and the interaction is awesome.”
In preparation for Fieldays this year Chelsea has taught her dogs some new tricks, some of which are designed to add humour to the show. And, for the first time, Chelsea is also involved in the Rural Bachelor of the Year event where the dogs will be used for an agility/tricks heat.
But while the bachelors may be feeling the heat, nerves are not a problem for Chelsea and her dogs. They have performed at a number of events such as the Christmas in the Park and Royal Easter Shows. “The dogs love any kind of action and I’m pretty sure they get excited instead of nervous. The same goes for me!”
Chelsea, from Rotorua, appeared on the reality television show New Zealand’s Got Talent with her dog Quest. They made it to the semi-finals.
“I love working with dogs and showing people what can be achieved with time, patience and a good bond.” Her dogs are called Bree, Flash, Ikon, Spy, Shift, and Quest.
