Canine Agility Training
Canine agility courses are rapidly gaining in popularity for dogs, handlers and spectators alike since their debut in Birmingham, England in 1979. The atmosphere is highly energetic and encouraging, in which dogs speed through a predetermined course, propelled forward by their own enthusiasm, the applause of the crowd and the direction of their handlers. Preparing dogs for agility events takes time and patience, but often provides countless laughs and proud moments.
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Getting Started
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Start agility training after your puppy is 6 months of age or older. This way, your puppy's bones, joints and muscles have had time to grow and mature, and you will not add extra strain to your puppy's sensitive body while it is growing. Speak with your veterinarian to make sure that agility trials are a suitable sport for your dog.
Training Area
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Train your dog in a large enclosed area where you feel comfortable letting him off his leash. Leads (especially chain) are usually not used in agility training because they can get easily caught or tangled on the jumps and equipment. A fenced back yard is a good place to start, because your dog is likely already comfortable there, and you will not have to worry about him getting out and hurting himself.
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Equipment
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Agility equipment includes (but is not limited to) weave poles, jumps including poles and standards, a tunnel or chute, an A-frame, and a teeter. There are many kits available for purchase with the obstacles, or you may make your own equipment. Always ensure that the obstacles are safe for your puppy, and that they are the appropriate height.
Positive Motivators
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Always use encouragement to get your dog used to obstacles; never use a heavy or forceful hand as you would in dog training. Using the right motivators for your dog will encourage her to try these new, silly activities that might make her apprehensive. Remember that each dog is different, so appeal to her size, personality and tastes. Try toys, balls, jute tugs, treats and praise to encourage your dog while you train her.
Commands
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Before you get started with agility, your dog must know basic obedience commands. The most important commands for agility training include "Sit", "Stay", "Heel" and "Lay Down". In addition to these basic obedience commands that will be an indispensable tool throughout an agility course, your dog must also learn "Go Ahead", "Left", "Right" and "Over".
Obstacle Training
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Start slow with obstacle training. When you start, couple all actions with commands and hand signals so that your dog will associate your directions with consistent indicators. For example, when you train your dog to go over a jump, have a specific command (such as "Over") as well as a hand signal. Start very low, even with the pole lying on the ground so that you do not have to worry about your dog hurting himself. He will slowly learn that "Over" means "go through the standards and go over whatever is in the middle". As your dog becomes comfortable with this command, gradually increase the height of the poles to the size appropriate for your dog. Finally, teach new obstacles one at a time so that your dog gains confidence and understanding of the task at hand.
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References
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