Dog agility training was first debuted in Great Britain in the late 70’s, and was inspired by the equestrian combined training events of timed cross country and stadium jumping. The sport of dog agility consists of an energetic team of dog and handler which negotiate the course of obstacles. The trainer guides the dog through the obstacles consisting of see-saws, weave poles, jumps, dog walks, and tunnels, utilizing an array of hand commands.
Dog agility competitions are judged on time to complete the course and the dog’s ability to cleanly maneuver the obstacles. Even though the sport of dog agility competitions is mostly loved by the competitors it can also be a real treat for spectators.
The competition in dog agility training is very serious and is a well standardized sport containing strict guidelines and regulations. There are two divisions in dog agility competition and are based on your dog’s height. Dogs between sixteen and twenty-one inches measured at the shoulder are placed in the mini division, and dogs over twenty-one inches compete in the open division.
Dogs competing in the mini division are required to navigate courses with jumps varying from twelve inches, to twenty-four inches, while dogs in the open division are required to navigate courses with jumps ranging from twenty-six inches up to thirty inches in height.
Before beginning your agility training program make sure your pup has reached the proper level of maturity to prevent injury. Most experts recommend not beginning a formal agility training program until the dog has reached the age of at least one year. At this point the dog may begin agility training and will be physically developed well enough for competing and cleanly jumping the heights required in his division.
How to begin dog agility training:
Your dog will begin his competitive agility career in the starter division which is reserved for agility dogs which don’t hold an agility title. After the dog has earned a starter title by completing one clear round he will then be qualified to compete at the advanced level. Next the agility dog must complete three clear rounds being judged by at least two separate judges to earn his Advanced Title.
After earning an Advanced Agility Title the dog may then compete in the Masters Classes. Earning a Masters Title requires completion of a six part qualification procedure. The Masters Title requires three clear runs in the versatility classes scored by two separate judges. In addition the Masters Title requires three successful scores from two separate judges in the games courses.
Not all dogs will become a Master but is certain they will all have fun in trying. Dog agility training is a challenging sport as well as fun activity for both dog and owner being enjoyed by many across the country, however I don’t believe any of the handlers are enjoying it nearly as much as the dogs. Dog agility competition is a great way to spend quality time with your favorite pooch and meet some great people with like minded interest.
Excelling at Dog Agility - Book 1: Obstacle Training (Updated Second Edition)
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Excelling at Dog Agility - Book 2: Sequence Training
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Excelling at Dog Agility: Book 3 : Advanced Skills Training
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