Dog Agility Training FAQ
What is dog agility training?
Dog agility is a sport designed for speed. Agility training takes place on an obstacle course where the owner directs the dog off-leash. There are many different obstacles, among them the teeter-totter, the weave poles, A-frame, elevated dog walk, and various jumps and tunnels. In agility competitions, the goal is to complete the obstacles in the shortest period of time over a given dog agility course. Time faults are given for obstacles completed incorrectly. Training for agility, however, does not mean that you have to compete. In fact, most of our members participate only for fun. Dogs and their humans of all ages, shapes, and sizes can succeed at agility!
Why should I do agility training?
Most dogs can benefit from agility training. It improves balance, coordination, and allows you to interact with your dog in a positive and fun environment. Dogs love agility training, and owners often notice that their dog is happier and better behaved when they train on a regular basis. Agility training can often alleviate behavior problems by channeling a dog’s frustration into something productive and fun. Agility training is also a wonderful bonding experience between owner and dog, affording a unique opportunity to develop and celebrate positive communication throughout the agility course.
Can I bring a puppy for agility training?
You can enroll your puppy in Puppy Agility if he is between two and eight months old, provided that your puppy is up to date on all of his vaccinations.
I have an older dog. Can he learn new tricks?
Yes! We encourage older dogs to participate in agility training as long as they are healthy and active. We do not recommend agility for elderly dogs that may have arthritis, joint problems, or balance issues. Please check with your vet if you’re not sure. We also offer a wide range of exciting and innovative trick training and enrichment classes that are perfect for older dogs. We also have a special class called Senior Stretch and Agility which is ideal for all dogs over the age of 7, even those with joint or other health issues, as the focus of this class is on balance, gentle stretching and mental stimulation.
Is previous obedience training necessary?
In order to succeed at agility, basic obedience training is required; your dog must know sit, down, stay, and come on command. If your dog isn’t quite up to speed, we offer accelerated obedience classes to get you out on the dog agility course quickly.
What if my dog already had obedience training?
Are you wondering what your dog will learn that she doesn’t already know? Dog agility isn’t obedience, but rather a fun game much like an obstacle or challenge course. Your dog will learn coordination, balance and self-confidence by learning to negotiate the obstacles. In addition, you and your dog will learn to communicate effectively as a team.
Can all breeds participate in dog agility training?
Many people wonder if some breeds are naturally more adept than others. In fact, all breeds are capable of participating in agility training, and most dogs truly enjoy the experience. The dogs most suited for agility competition seem to be the herding or working dogs. However, we’ve seen Basset Hounds in competition, so anything is possible!
Do you offer advanced classes?
Once your dog has completed all of our agility classes, we also offer competition-level private lessons, or you and your dog can join and compete in our own Agility League once you’ve mastered the basics.
Are there competitions for agility?
Yes, there are many local dog agility competitions offered by different organizations. A listing of upcoming agility competitions and information on competing is available at the Zoom Room.
Can I enroll online?
Absolutely. You can enroll by phone, in person, or online.
