Agility dog training is specific training for the sport of dog agility. The sport requires the dog handler to correctly given time period. The sport began during the mid 1970’s in the British Isle. It is frequently compared to equestrian jumping events. Spectator numbers grew rapidly throughout England until the sport spread throughout Western Europe and North America. As a result the demand for agility dog training has also greatly increased. In the US there are now several nationally recognized agility dog organizations that provide rules, policy, testing and competition events. These include the:
• United States Dog Agility Association (USDAA) • United Kennel Club (UKC) • American Kennel Club (AKC) • North American Dog Agility Council (NADAC)
Agility dog training teaches dogs to negotiate several more or less standard obstacles. Each agility dog association has its own obstacle requirements but basically they include A-frame, See-Saw, Dog Walk, Tunnel or Pipe Tunnel, Collapsed Tunnel, Pause Table, Hoop or Tire Jumps, Set of Weave Poles and crossbar jumps. Passing through the obstacles quickly is not enough to win an agility dog competition or trial. There are various locations which the dog must contact over the course. Failing to touch these contact or safety points will result in a fault which adds time to the course time. Handlers may give commands as needed but must not touch the dog or any obstacle on the course as this will also cause a fault to be assessed. The dog with the least number of faults and fastest time will win the height/class division of the competition. Well trained agility dogs really enjoy a trial and this is easily observed by watching the dog’s body language and demeanor. Agility is designed to be fun for everyone especially the dogs. Most dog respond well to agility dog training if done properly.
Prior to conducting any agility dog training a dog should be trained in basic obedience training. This means the dog must come immediately when called, be able to heel, sit, down and whoa on command. The dog should also be well socialized with people and other dogs as these distractions will be common place during a trial. Also very important is that the dog or puppy must enjoy playing fetch and tug of war. Once these foundations are complete then the real agility dog training can begin. Initial agility dog training work begins by introducing the dog to simple low obstacles. If at all possible this should be done without a leash and electronic training collars. Patience is the key in any dog training and of course it should be fun for the dog as well. As training progresses the dog will be gradually introduced to higher obstacles and jumps. During this stage of the training process the dog will need to be spotted to prevent falls.
Eventually the dog will gain the coordination and confidence to negotiate the higher obstacles without a spotter. A new training language will be learned by the dog and its pace will be accelerated. Many dogs love the challenge of the course and will naturally want to increase its pace. Each dog must learn to correctly make contact with each contact or safety point especially while ascending and descending any obstacle. The dog handler will really have to move quickly to keep up with a well trained agility dog as they negotiate the obstacles. It goes without saying that agility dog training never really ends as courses and challenges change the training must also change as well.
There are few things more enjoyable to watch then a well trained agility dog. Agility dog training when done properly will provide enjoyment to the spectator and it will bring pride and joy to the owner and handler as well.