There are many sports activities in the world that involve dogs, such as sled dog racing, sheepdog herding and Frisbee dog competitions. One of the most popular dog sports is dog agility, which has been around since the late 1970s. The first dog agility demonstrations were showcased in England at a Crufts dog show. Today, there are hundreds of dog agility events around the world and even special organizations dedicated to sanctioning dog agility competitions. Here are some more facts about the world of dog agility.
It is important to note that dog agility competitions include both the dog and a handler. The competition courses are set up in a complicated fashion and dogs must look to the handler to help guide them through the course in the correct order. While the handler can use voice commands and some body signals to help the dog, no treats or toys are allowed as incentives.
There are many different organizations and each has its own rules, but generally dogs are not competing only with their own breed, but competing with dogs of similar sizes. The USDAA or United States Dog Agility Association, for example, divides dogs into four height groupings. Dogs also are not allowed to enter the main competitions until they are at least 18 months old. Not only does this ensure that their height will remain consistent, it simply isn't considered a good idea to have a dog undergo intense agility training until after their bodies are fully developed at around one year in age.
While every organization differs, you generally see the same types of obstacles in all agility contests. The number of obstacles dogs must navigate varies by organization and within that organization it varies by class. There are contests for dogs who are just starting out, contests for more experienced dogs and contests for the older veterans of the sport. Typically, the novices and veterans will have around 15 obstacles, while the advanced or master-class animals could have as many as 20 obstacles.
The obstacles vary from hurdles or jumps to poles which dogs must weave in and out of quickly. There will usually be a tire jump and several different contact obstacles. These usually include a dog walk, a teeter totter and an A-frame obstacle. Tunnels also are included, as is a pause table. At the pause table, the dog must sit and stay for a specific amount of time.
Even if you never plan on taking part in a dog agility competition with your pet, there are several reasons why agility training is beneficial. It strengthens the bond between the owner and the dog, increases the level of obedience and provides an excellent source of exercise for the dog and the owner. Of course, it's also a lot of fun for you and your pet. There are several companies that sell sturdy, pre-made dog training equipment, such as Carlson-Agility.com. You can find everything from jumps to tunnels to weaves on this website, as well as some very helpful training information.
It is important to note that dog agility competitions include both the dog and a handler. The competition courses are set up in a complicated fashion and dogs must look to the handler to help guide them through the course in the correct order. While the handler can use voice commands and some body signals to help the dog, no treats or toys are allowed as incentives.
There are many different organizations and each has its own rules, but generally dogs are not competing only with their own breed, but competing with dogs of similar sizes. The USDAA or United States Dog Agility Association, for example, divides dogs into four height groupings. Dogs also are not allowed to enter the main competitions until they are at least 18 months old. Not only does this ensure that their height will remain consistent, it simply isn't considered a good idea to have a dog undergo intense agility training until after their bodies are fully developed at around one year in age.
While every organization differs, you generally see the same types of obstacles in all agility contests. The number of obstacles dogs must navigate varies by organization and within that organization it varies by class. There are contests for dogs who are just starting out, contests for more experienced dogs and contests for the older veterans of the sport. Typically, the novices and veterans will have around 15 obstacles, while the advanced or master-class animals could have as many as 20 obstacles.
The obstacles vary from hurdles or jumps to poles which dogs must weave in and out of quickly. There will usually be a tire jump and several different contact obstacles. These usually include a dog walk, a teeter totter and an A-frame obstacle. Tunnels also are included, as is a pause table. At the pause table, the dog must sit and stay for a specific amount of time.
Even if you never plan on taking part in a dog agility competition with your pet, there are several reasons why agility training is beneficial. It strengthens the bond between the owner and the dog, increases the level of obedience and provides an excellent source of exercise for the dog and the owner. Of course, it's also a lot of fun for you and your pet. There are several companies that sell sturdy, pre-made dog training equipment, such as Carlson-Agility.com. You can find everything from jumps to tunnels to weaves on this website, as well as some very helpful training information.
About the Author:
Cheng Bernhardt enjoys dog agility training. To find an obstacle course for dogs, or to find further about training equipment for agility for dogs, please check out the Carlson-Agility site now.
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