In a real trial, however, the excitement and anticipation is felt and the foundation that may have been laid is lost. It starts out with the dog starting to stand up a bit, then taking one or two steps. The next time, having received no negative reinforcement for breaking the stay previously and having been rewarded by the run beginning, the dog breaks again, this time a little sooner, next time a little sooner. It is not long before you have a dog that can't be brought into the ring without it performing the first obstacle it sees. Most dogs can figure out the difference between training and competition and will only break in competition.
Many handlers have no access to equipment on a regular basis.
Matches and other training situations are scarce for most as well. It is, of course, permissible to walk your dog to the start on a leash. One method that works for some dogs is to walk the dog to the start line on lead and when you remove the lead, place a hand on his chest to hold him until you're ready to walk out. Then give a stay command and walk out. You may have to repeat the stay several times as you walk out and watch him like a hawk.