Jumps, Tunnels, A-Frame, See-Saw,
Dog Walk, Pause Table, Weave Poles! Your dog
can learn to run fast and take all the obstacles –
just like you see on TV! Agility is the fastest growing
dog sport and it is easy to understand why. It’s fun
for the dog and fun for the handler too!
But don’t be fooled by how easy it looks on TV.
These dogs and handlers have practiced many,
many hours to learn to read each other correctly
and quickly. It’s a game of speed, accuracy,
precision timing, split second communication
and strategy. Every course is different and the
dog never knows what to expect. It is the handler’s
job to know their dog’s strengths and weaknesses
and choose the best technique for each obstacle on
the course.
Almost any dog can do agility and nearly all dogs
enjoy the sport once they understand what is
expected. All the obstacles are adjustable for the
size and ability of each dog. Properly taught, agility
builds self-confidence in the dog and improves the
training skills of the handler. Usually a strong bond
develops between dog and handler and they become
a real working team. You’ll notice that agility dogs
rarely take their eyes off of their handler because
their handler is so much fun to be with!
Whether you want to learn to compete at the
national level or just want to have some fun with
your dog in the back yard, I encourage you to
give agility a try. There is a great camaraderie
between competitors and lots of praise and respect
for the dogs. Agility is also great exercise for both
dog and human and it is open to dogs of any breed
including All-Americans (mixed breeds).
For More Specific Information on Agility visit the following websites:
www.usdaa.com (United States Dog Agility Association)
www.nadac.com (North American Dog Agility Council)
www.k9cpe.com (Canine Performance Events)
www.akc.org (American Kennel Club)
www.k9tdaa.com (Teacup Dog Agility)