While you might think only certain breeds of dogs will enjoy racing around the agility course, dogs of any breed or mixed breed might enjoy these highly engaging activities. This is a fun sport for you and your dog to enjoy, but before you head online and start ordering jumps, weaves and tunnels, it is wise to assess your dog first.
Keep in mind that just because your dog enjoys agility training, it doesn't mean you have to compete. While competition can be a ton of fun, a dog will enjoy many important benefits from simply engaging in these agility activities. The exercise component is especially beneficial, as the dogs are not only running about but they are getting a whole-body workout. In addition, obedience is improved from simply learning to obey the commands and following instructions. Your dog also will enjoy the challenge of the course, which keeps him or her busy and engaged.
The first gauge of whether or not your dog is right for agility is their overall level of health. A dog that is older and weaker or perhaps one prone to neck or hip problems is probably not a great candidate for agility training. Breeds prone to breathing issues also might be poor candidates for agility training. Talk to your vet and ask them whether or not your dog is physically able to handle the strenuous nature of the agility course.
In addition to being healthy, your dog needs to have the right temperament. Agility dogs are full of happy energy and they generally love being around other dogs. If this sounds like your dog, then agility training might be a great match. Just about any dog can compete; in fact, hundreds of different breeds do compete including mixed breed animals. Small dogs, medium-sized dogs and large animals all compete as well, so don't let size or breed determine whether or not to choose this sport for your pet. Your dog simply needs to be conducive to learning new skills, full of energy and able to handle situations where there are other dogs and people present. If your dog has lots of energy, but tends to be shy, agility training can be a fantastic way to build up their courage and self-confidence, it just takes a bit more patience.
If you are still unsure, just sign your dog up for an agility class at the local community center or agility club. These classes typically meet about once each week for four to six weeks and will offer you with a way to really observe if your dog, and you, truly will enjoy these activities. Plus, you will be able to learn how to train your animal and have an opportunity to ask general questions about agility.
If all indications point to yes, it is definitely time to start collecting some fun agility obstacles. You can start out with just one item, such as a jump or tunnel or perhaps a starter kit from Carlson Agility. This agility equipment superstore offers a full range of obstacles and agility aids, as well starter kits and mini agility equipment. The mini equipment is perfect for your small dog or a puppy or even a dog that is a bit timid about learning the agility skills. They offer full-size and mini versions of dog agility a-frames, teeter totters, agility dog walks, tire jumps, pause tables and much more.
Keep in mind that just because your dog enjoys agility training, it doesn't mean you have to compete. While competition can be a ton of fun, a dog will enjoy many important benefits from simply engaging in these agility activities. The exercise component is especially beneficial, as the dogs are not only running about but they are getting a whole-body workout. In addition, obedience is improved from simply learning to obey the commands and following instructions. Your dog also will enjoy the challenge of the course, which keeps him or her busy and engaged.
The first gauge of whether or not your dog is right for agility is their overall level of health. A dog that is older and weaker or perhaps one prone to neck or hip problems is probably not a great candidate for agility training. Breeds prone to breathing issues also might be poor candidates for agility training. Talk to your vet and ask them whether or not your dog is physically able to handle the strenuous nature of the agility course.
In addition to being healthy, your dog needs to have the right temperament. Agility dogs are full of happy energy and they generally love being around other dogs. If this sounds like your dog, then agility training might be a great match. Just about any dog can compete; in fact, hundreds of different breeds do compete including mixed breed animals. Small dogs, medium-sized dogs and large animals all compete as well, so don't let size or breed determine whether or not to choose this sport for your pet. Your dog simply needs to be conducive to learning new skills, full of energy and able to handle situations where there are other dogs and people present. If your dog has lots of energy, but tends to be shy, agility training can be a fantastic way to build up their courage and self-confidence, it just takes a bit more patience.
If you are still unsure, just sign your dog up for an agility class at the local community center or agility club. These classes typically meet about once each week for four to six weeks and will offer you with a way to really observe if your dog, and you, truly will enjoy these activities. Plus, you will be able to learn how to train your animal and have an opportunity to ask general questions about agility.
If all indications point to yes, it is definitely time to start collecting some fun agility obstacles. You can start out with just one item, such as a jump or tunnel or perhaps a starter kit from Carlson Agility. This agility equipment superstore offers a full range of obstacles and agility aids, as well starter kits and mini agility equipment. The mini equipment is perfect for your small dog or a puppy or even a dog that is a bit timid about learning the agility skills. They offer full-size and mini versions of dog agility a-frames, teeter totters, agility dog walks, tire jumps, pause tables and much more.
About the Author:
Cheng Bernhardt loves dog agility training. To find an agility equipment, or to find helpful agility dog training equipment such as dog agility kit, please visit the Carlson-Agility.com site now.
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