Find out how you can Train your Dog for Agility with this
simple information and easy tips about Dog Agility Training
Agility Training For Dogs
Steve Austin
Without agility, the most muscular person in the world couldn't
win a fight against a fifth-grader. But did you know that for a
dog agility is possibly even more important? With so many of a
dog's happiest moments spent running, jumping, catching, and
stretching, dog agility training can really help dogs age
gracefully and happily.
What is dog agility training?
You’ve probably seen dog agility training on television. The dogs
run a course of tire hoops, tunnels, seesaw, dog walk plank,
jumps, hurdles, weaving poles, and a 3-meter A-frame. Heeling,
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 not 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 is needed?
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; it could get caught in the jumps.
Agility Training Courses for Dogs
There are two sides of agility training for dogs. They are the
obstacles and the control training. There are also tips for
training your dog. 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 6 feet)
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 she and you are 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.
If you love dogs and puppies, visit
www.I-Love-Dogs.com now!
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