By Ted Reaux
Many dog owners enjoy dog sports, given that they provide a fun and structured method to play with their pets in addition to providing an amazing way to keep a dog in shape and happy. Dog sports are a truly great option for high-energy dogs and working breeds that demand extra attention and like having a job to do.
Dog agility, a competitive dog sport in which dogs and human handlers attempt to complete an obstacle course as fast as possible, is a particularly good option for active owners and dogs alike, encouraging a large degree of both discipline and athleticism to excel. Obstacles include a variety of ramps, tunnels, jumps, weaving poles, in addition to tests of speed and discipline. Dogs run off-leash in agility, and the handler cannot touch the dog or the obstacles in the course of the run. A handler instead directs a dog through a sequence of audio and visual cues, including commands, gestures, and running along the course to denote a path for the dog. Competition is further complicated as all courses are constructed differently, so dogs and owners will not have practiced a path to complete all of the obstacles; thus, excellent training and communication between handler and dog is needed to complete a course during competition. Obstacles which are not completed correctly earn the team a fault which gives either a time penalty or a disqualification for the team, based on the competition rules and specific error.
Training for dog agility can be a challenging process and varies by individual dog and owner. Even dogs with no history of dog sports can become competitors with the right support and training. The best way to get started is to contact a club or team in your area that has agility training classes which can provide obstacles and training to get started, allowing the dog to learn in a safe, structured environment. Even better, more seasoned handlers and dogs will be available to demonstrate proper navigation of obstacles to the newer recruits. A good training program can have both you and your dog running obstacles and improving your communication faster than you would believe!
Once a dog is experienced enough at running a training course, the team can look into local and regional competitions. Once again, local agility clubs and organizations are the best source for learning about these opportunities and finding a group to train, travel, and compete with.
For more information about Dog Agility Training and how to get involved with YOUR dog, check out http://dogagilityandflyball.com to learn more!
