Dog Agility Training is Vital for a long and happy life

Agility is as important as strength in overall fitness. Without agility, the most muscular person in the world would be beaten by a child. But agility is possibly even more important for a dog - with so many of a dog's happiest moments spent running, jumping and stretching, dog agility training can really help dogs live longer and remain active because they are less prone to minor dog ailments.

What is dog agility training?
You have probably seen dog agility training on television. The dogs run a course of hoops, tunnels, seesaw, dog walk plank, jumps, hurdles, weaving poles (like a slalom course), and an A-frame. Walking to heel, sitting, down stays, send-aways as well as walking off leash are also included.

Who can participate?
Anyone with a dog can do agility training. There is no age limit for people or dogs. In fact, children and puppies are encouraged to take part. All breeds and sizes of dogs without a physical disability can benefit from agility training. Be sure to check with your vet before you begin agility training if you have any doubts about your canine’s fitness.

What equipment do I need?
You as the handler will need comfortable shoes and clothes that you can run in, because this is not exercise for the dog alone. Your dog needs a leather or webbed buckle collar and a leather, nylon or rope lead of fairly long length. Do not use a chain lead as it could get caught in the jumps.

Agility Training Courses for Dogs
There are two aspects to dog agility training. First, the obstacles and second, the control training.

Obstacles. Although it seems high to many handlers, the A-frame is the best obstacle to begin training. The dog-walk plank, low jump and the tunnel (dogs love this obstacle) are also excellent for training the novice dog.

Control training is important to keep your dog disciplined both on the agility course and off. Everybody knows that a dog must heel and sit. You must also teach your dog to know and obey different commands: to go left and right, lay down, and wait. After those are mastered, the dog must learn normal recall (returning anytime you call) and recall over obstacles. Also important is the “send away” command, making the dog go ahead you.

Tips for Dog Agility Training
Begin training by getting your dog’s attention. Talk to him and offer a small treat. Coupled with the love he has for you, he’ll be all ears. Be sure you have the correct lead (generally approx 1.8m) and a comfortable collar (measure the dog’s neck and add 2 inches) for your dog. Give praise often. “Tune in” to your dog to be sure you are both ready to train. Here’s a final tip: make sure that you and your dog enjoy yourselves. After all, jumping through hoops is supposed to be fun - at least if you're a dog. Read more about agility training ...

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