Getting Started in Agility

Agility is fun, fast and if you want to get involved in a sport where you work with your dog to a fine tuned degree agility is an excellent sport for that.

Personally I like agility because it allows your dog to work with you and if you have one of those shy dogs you can use the course to build confidence and self-esteem in your dog.

Going over an A-frame and nailing it does wonders for the confidence level of any dog. Not to mention how it makes the handler feel too.

The Catch 22: Agility is only for those dogs that can be controlled off-lead around other dogs.

This is a sport that is off-leash and exciting. You need a well trained dog before you start competing.

However, that doesn't mean you can't build an agility course for yourself!

The Sport of Agility in a NutShell

Agility is a fast paced dog sport where dogs run an obstacle course. The common obstacles are hurdles, a teeter-totter, an A-Frame climb, a tire jump, a tunnel and a shoot.

The object of agility is to complete the course in the fastest time possible. If you ever get the pleasure of watching an agility trial you will quickly appreciate how talented some of the handlers and dogs are as they speed through the courses with what seems like ease.

Agility does fit certain breeds better than others but that is not to say you shouldn't pursue the sport if you have a breed that is not known for their agility (like a St. Bernhard for example). If your dog is fit and healthy you can pursue agility for a variety of reasons.

Agility can be great for building a dog's confidence levels, giving them mental and physical exercise, and building a stronger bond between owner (you) and dog.

How to Get Started

There are clubs that teach agility all over the place. In a moment I'll give you a link to search for a club in your area.

But first I want to address the dogs that don't get along well with other dogs.

If you want to get involved in agility with a dog that is not dog friendly there is nothing wrong with that.

However competing is out of the question but agility for fun is still available for you.

You can purchase your own agility equipment or make it. Either way, setting up a small course for the fun of it has it's own rewards for both you and your dog.

You should also do some research into the sport before you start. Always make sure your dogs are medically sound before you start any activity.

Clubs, Equipment, and Sites About Agility.

To find information about Agility clubs click here.

A fantastic Agility Magazine called, "The Clean Run" is a good place to start for research. Click here to check out "The Clean Run Magazine".

If you want to have your own agility course for the fun of it then I highly recommend the following 5 Piece Agility Sets.

To check out Agility 5-piece Starter Set #1 click here.
To check out Agility 5-piece Starter Set #2 (w/Tire Jump) click here.

For information about training your dog for agility visit A Clean Run.

Thanks for reading this article and remember whatever you choose to do with your dog, have fun!

Best Regards,

Jason Mann