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Dog Agility at AthleticDogs.com

What Exactly is Dog Agility?

Dog agility is by far the most popular dog sport. Dog and handler work together to complete an obstacle course in a race of both time and accuracy. The dogs run off-leash and are controlled by the handler's voice and body signals. Agility is fun for both the dog and handler and requires a lot of work to master each role.

Agility courses include a variety of standard obstacles, including jumps, weaves, teeters, and dog walks. The obstacles vary in difficulty, but all require consistent training to master. Different dogs (both breeds and personalities) excel at different agility skills, though just about any dog can become an agility Champion.

The agility judge designs the course within a 100' by 100' area and numbers the obstacles in the order they are to be completed. The designs are typically complicated enough that a dog cannot complete them on their own and they need the clear guidance of the handler. The handler is always allowed a short walk-through before the competition starts, without their dog, to determine both their own path and strategy and the dog's best route through the course.

There are a number of factors that dictate how a dog and handler team should train for agility. The difference between the speed of the handler and dog can be an issue, as well as other strengths and weaknesses of the team members. Both handler and dog must train to master the sport - the reason it looks easy is because those who compete have already done the hard work!

Check out the AthleticDogs.com line of agility training products!