What is Dog Agility?
Dog Agility is a fun sport for dogs and their owners, proving fun jumping over obstacles, going through tunnels, weaving through poles all against the clock. The fasted clear round wins! You can do agility just for fun as a hobby or if you get hooked, you can have a go at competing yourself.
Since its introduction at Crufts in 1978, it has been a fast-growing sport and competitions are held all around the country.
There are certain breeds that do better at agility in competition but all breeds can and do take part. The jump height is changed to suit the size of your dog in competitions, in fun training we can do whatever suits the dog. There are no specific handler requirements young and old take part. If you have any mobility issues, then this is not a hurdle as the dog is taught more distant handling. There are competitors that compete in wheelchairs!
What are the Benefits of Dog Agility
The majority of the time when you hear of a dog chewing things up or getting into mischief, it’s because the dog is bored or has too much pent-up energy. Dogs love to work, walks are fun but walks alone do not stimulate the dog in the same way as games based training does or Agility.
Agility goes far beyond the normal exercises that most dogs get (walks and fetch). It forces them to use their brain to solve problems and make the right decisions. It is also great fun and helps build a great bond with you and you both get fitter at the same time.
Agility fulfils your dog's natural instinct to run and jump and provides a positive outlet for any excess energy often found in younger dogs. It forces your dog to think critically, listen and problem solve and your dog will learn patience and self-control.
If that is not enough to tempt you into having a go, Agility is also a great exercise for both you and your dog and gives another opportunity to get out into the fresh air and have fun whilst also strengthening the bond between you and your dog.
Lessons
Currently, I am only doing 1-2-1 sessions on either Tuesday or Wednesday day time.
Lessons are held at my Agility field on the outskirts of Wantage. You can have individual coaching, share with a friend or friends or join a small class. Lessons are held during the week and at weekends Individual sessions can be for half an hour or an hour. Small group sessions will be for a minimum of an hour.
Dogs can start at any age, although puppies can do foundation work they will not start jumping until their growth plates have closed which is usually around 12 months of age, to avoid risk of injury. There are plenty of foundation skills they can learn before this age. A dog is not eligible to compete until they are 18 months of age.
You do not need any special equipment. All you will need is to wear suitable shoes and clothes for running in, the soles should ideally give you some grip to prevent you from slipping and clothing should be suitable for the weather on the day. Your dog will need a flat collar and normal lead (flexi leads are not suitable), a drinking bowl and some water, treats and toys for rewards and if you are attending a group session a travel crate would be helpful but not essential.