If you've ever watched a dog zipping through obstacles on a dog agility course and thought it would be fun for your dog, you are probably correct. Not only do dogs love the challenge of agility courses, this type of training increases their overall level of obedience and also can strengthen the bond between owner and animal. Consider the following information if you are considering starting up a training regime for your dog.
Certainly some types of dogs tend to shine on an agility course, particularly breeds such as shepherds. However, most dog breeds are sure to enjoy the training and you really just need a dog with a playful and energetic demeanor. Size also is not a factor, as smaller dogs simply just have to use equipment that is adjusted to accommodate the smaller size. In the competitive world of dog agility, dogs are divided up by size and level of expertise.
Of course, there is nothing that requires you to enter your dog into a competition, and agility training is a fantastic form of exercise for dogs. It is also an excellent method of teaching obedience and strengthens the trust and bond between master and pet. It is important to note that very young dogs should not going through agility training as it can be hard on their developing bodies. Once they have fully matured, then the jumping, weaving and tunneling can begin.
Still, a puppy can be taught obedience skills and it is highly recommended that all dog owners begin training as soon as the animal comes home with them. Inexpensive dog obedience classes are available almost everywhere, and taking your pet to class is a great way to promote socialization. Your dog needs to feel comfortable interacting with other dogs and people and also obeying your commands when there are plenty of distractions around them.
After your dog has reached full development and mastered the basics of sitting, staying and heeling, agility training can commence. You can research this type of training and purchase some equipment and get going, but it might be a better idea to find a good instructor and take some classes. After all, they already have the knowledge and the equipment. Once you have established that your dog and you both love the sport, you can then purchase your own equipment and continue training at home.
There are many companies that sell agility equipment, such as Carlson-Agility.com. You can purchase dog agility tunnels, dog agility jumps, weaves, tire jumps and much more. They even have dog agility kits that are perfect for those starting out. One kit includes weaves and jumps, another includes jumps and a tunnel and still another includes jumps, weaves and a teeter-totter. You also could get a starter kit with a tunnel, two jumps and a pause table. Once you've mastered the obstacles in your starter kit, you can add some new obstacles to increase your pet's skill level.
Certainly some types of dogs tend to shine on an agility course, particularly breeds such as shepherds. However, most dog breeds are sure to enjoy the training and you really just need a dog with a playful and energetic demeanor. Size also is not a factor, as smaller dogs simply just have to use equipment that is adjusted to accommodate the smaller size. In the competitive world of dog agility, dogs are divided up by size and level of expertise.
Of course, there is nothing that requires you to enter your dog into a competition, and agility training is a fantastic form of exercise for dogs. It is also an excellent method of teaching obedience and strengthens the trust and bond between master and pet. It is important to note that very young dogs should not going through agility training as it can be hard on their developing bodies. Once they have fully matured, then the jumping, weaving and tunneling can begin.
Still, a puppy can be taught obedience skills and it is highly recommended that all dog owners begin training as soon as the animal comes home with them. Inexpensive dog obedience classes are available almost everywhere, and taking your pet to class is a great way to promote socialization. Your dog needs to feel comfortable interacting with other dogs and people and also obeying your commands when there are plenty of distractions around them.
After your dog has reached full development and mastered the basics of sitting, staying and heeling, agility training can commence. You can research this type of training and purchase some equipment and get going, but it might be a better idea to find a good instructor and take some classes. After all, they already have the knowledge and the equipment. Once you have established that your dog and you both love the sport, you can then purchase your own equipment and continue training at home.
There are many companies that sell agility equipment, such as Carlson-Agility.com. You can purchase dog agility tunnels, dog agility jumps, weaves, tire jumps and much more. They even have dog agility kits that are perfect for those starting out. One kit includes weaves and jumps, another includes jumps and a tunnel and still another includes jumps, weaves and a teeter-totter. You also could get a starter kit with a tunnel, two jumps and a pause table. Once you've mastered the obstacles in your starter kit, you can add some new obstacles to increase your pet's skill level.
About the Author:
Cheng Bernhardt likes writing about dog agility training. To find a dog agility course, or to find more about starter agility dog supplies, please visit the Carlson-Agility.com site now.
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