Dog agility is an athletic team sport and a fun way to spend time with your dog. Based on horse jumping competitions, dogs are directed over a timed obstacle course consisting of jumps, tunnels, weaves, seesaws, A-frames, and various other obstacles.
There are a variety of classes offered in the various agility organizations worldwide, with each class requiring different skills. Agility not only tests the dog's skills, it also tests the handler's training and handling skills. Since each course is unique, the handler will first walk the course without a dog. This is a chance to assess the challenges and come up with a handling strategy. When it's time for the dog to run, the handler directs the dog around the course, trying to balance speed and accuracy. The dog follows the handlers voice, movement, and body signals. Most classes are scored points then time; dog's start with a perfect score and deductions are taken for each obstacle not performed correctly.
Agility is a sport for all dogs, though different types of dogs can pose different training and handling challenges. It is important to give your agility dog a good foundation and get them in good physical condition before you introduce them to regulation obstacles and full courses. Since your dog will be half of your team, basic obedience and impulse control training are essential. Some agility groundwork (no obstacles) can be done with puppies, but care must be taken or they may injure their growing bodies. As they progress and their skills and confidence grow, obstacles and advanced handling techniques are introduced. Sometimes it can seem like "one step forward, two steps back" when starting a new agility dog, but if you persist and work on understanding your dog, you will be rewarded with a tight bond and a fun way to spend time with your best friend.
Agility links:
AKC (American Kennel Club) Agility
US Dog Agility Association (USDAA)
Canine Performance Events
North American Dog Agility Council (NADAC)
UKC (United Kennel Club) Agility
