How to Build a Hoop Tunnel

The hoop tunnel is a necessary part of many agility courses. It is a set of hoops on a frame that is performed just like a regular closed tunnel, with the exception that it is open on all sides and the dog must run through each of the consecutive hoops in order for the obstacle to count. The hoop tunnel does take some training to master, but building your own hoop tunnel at home will allow you hours of practice in your own backyard.

Things You'll Need

• 8 large plastic hoops (hoola hoops work well)
• 16 30 inch PVC sections ½ inch diameter
• 12 U joints
• 6 T joints
• 1 PVC end cap
• 13 plastic zip ties
• Scissors
• Paint
• PVC glue

Instructions

1. Take one of your U joints and place a section of the 30 inch pipe in one end of the joint. At the opposite end of the PVC, place a T joint, with the center opening facing up. Place another section of PVC at the opposite open end of the T joint, repeating until you have three T joints and five sections of pipe. Place another U joint at the end of this section to finish the first half of your frame.

2. Repeat this process for the second side of your frame. However, you will only have two T joints and three sections of pipe on this side, as the second side of the frame needs to be shorter than the first. Glue your pieces together as you assemble them if you want your frame to be permanent.

3. Insert nine of your remaining pieces of 30 inch PVC pipe into the open, upright sections of your bottom frame pieces. At the top of each of these uprights, place one of your U joints and secure tightly, with the exception of the last pole on the longest side of your frame. Place your PVC cap on this last single pole.

4. Place your last four pieces of pipe between the four upright sections to create a sturdy cross rail system for your hoop tunnel frame. This basic slanted cross rail system will offer good support for your hoops and will ensure your tunnel does not shift or fall.

5. Paint your frame at this time. There really is no recommended color scheme for the hoop tunnel, so just be sure to paint it in bright colors that will be easy for your dog to recognize and see. Allow the paint to dry fully before moving on.

6. Begin your hoop section by securing one hoop in between the first set of uprights. Attach the hoop at the 9 o’clock, 12 o’clock and 3 o’clock positions on the frame with the zip ties. The second hoop will need to be attached diagonally between the first upright on the short side and the second upright on the long side at the 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock positions. The third hoop will be placed between the second set of uprights on each side at the 9 o’clock, 12 o’clock and 3 o’clock positions, and so on until you have attached all of your hoops with the zip ties.

7. Set your hoop tunnel on even ground, and test it for shifting or movement. Be sure that all of your zip ties are pulled tight so that your hoops do not fall down or move while your dog is performing the obstacle. Assure that your frame and hoops are all secure and tightly fitted together. With a bit of hard work and skill, you and your canine companion are well on your way to acing the hoop tunnel.

Tips & Warnings

• Use caution with the PVC glue. It is very sticky and can stain surfaces if it is dropped or spilled.

• Trim all of the excess from your zip ties before allowing your dog to perform the hoop tunnel. The extra material on the end of the zip ties can have pointed edges that may cause damage to your dog.

• Do not use paint or glue in enclosed spaces. Both emit vapors that could be harmful to you or your animals.