Is Dog Agility Training for You and Your Dog?
Dog agility is a sport where a dog is directed through dog agility course by a handler, usually the owner. In dog agility competitions, the dog that navigates the course the fastest and with the most accuracy is the winner.
There are a few rules that apply in dog agility competitions. First, the handler cannot touch the dog as he runs the course. Second, the dog must run the course off-leash with no food or treats offered. The handler's control of the dog as he navigates the dog agility course is limited to voice, movement and various body signals. This requires extraordinary training of both the dog and the handler.
Dog agility courses are complicated enough that the dog could not complete them correctly without human direction. Dog agility tunnels and ladders are found in most courses. Prior to the competition or non-competition course, the handler assesses it and decides the best strategy for guiding the dog through the course. Amazingly, there are many different strategies that handler's can chose from in directing the dog through a dog agility course. The biggest contributor that needs to be taken into account is both the handler and the dog's strengths and weaknesses.
As can be presumed, agility training takes commitment. Before thinking about training yourself and your dog for an agility competition, you must ask yourself if you are willing and able to put in the time, consistency, practice, study and money for equipment. You must also analyze your dog to determine if he is ready to start this type of intense training.
How to Start Your Dog in Agility Training
Listed below are additional items to consider in regard to dog agility training:
The best breeds for dog agility training include : Shetland Sheepdogs, Belgian Tervurens, Border Collies, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, Welsh Corgis and Papillons.
Have your dog checked out by your vet . Dog agility courses include jumps, tunnels, weave poles, tire jumps, a pause table where your dog must lie down or sit for and count of five seconds and three obstacles that the dog must climb. Your dog must be physically and mentally fit for this type of exercise.
The level/difficulty of the course your dog will run is based on qualifying runs. Dogs run qualifying runs to determine which agility course they will race in. The usual progression is-- Starter's, Advanced and Master.
Non-competition agility courses are available. Any dog can participate in non-competitive agility courses.
Train your dog when he is most alert to you. Before mealtimes and after naps are optimal times to train with your dog.
Does your dog walk properly on a leash? Does your dog have basic obedience skills? Yes must be the answer to both of these before beginning dog agility training. Mastery of these skills represents focus, which is a critical agility training component.
Can your dog carry his own weight effortlessly? Does your dog possess strength and endurance? These two traits also offer clues as to whether your dog may be a good candidate for dog agility training.
If your dog and you as the handler/owner are a match for agility training, this type of exercise can build a tremendous bond between dog and owner as well as be loads of fun!
