Welcome

So you’de like to do agility ???????

Most people start an interest in agility after having seen it on the television or enjoying an agility display at a local event. Sometimes it is the owner of a boisterous pet dog who thinks that agility will help to channel the dog's energy. This is a good point to start from, but there are several things to think about before your dog tries out our wonderful sport. There are 2 main factors to consider when thinking about agility. Firstly - Is the dog fit and able to do it, and secondly, are you?!!

Margaret and Kite

The Dog

1) Is he/she too young or old for agility?

Dogs must be physically mature before they can start agility, this varies with different breeds. Most small dogs can start agility training at around 12 months of age but larger breeds need to wait until they are about 15 months old. Mental maturity must also be taken into account. It is no use starting agility before the basics of obedience have been learnt and are well understood. Older dogs can be brought into agility providing their health is good and their are no physical problems which would prevent the dog from learning.

2) Is the Dog Fit?

Agility places a lot of extra stress on a dogs muscles and bones than 'normal' doggy life. It is no good bringing along a dog who is used to lounging on the sofa and expecting them to cope with agilty. Get fit first!

3) Is the dog overweight?

A dog required to undertake agility training must not be over the reccommended weight for the breed.

4) Is the dog the right material?

Most breeds of dog take to agility but the bigger the dog the more you should ask whether he/she is really suited.

5) Is the dog trained?

Although most agility dogs are exciteable they must be able to cope off lead in the vicinity of other dogs. Agility is an exciting high adrenalin sport for most and without basic control agility is an uphill struggle.

6) Is the dog the right temperament?

Because of the nature of agility your dog will need to accept being in close proximity with other dogs and people both on and off lead. Dogs with issues are welcome at most clubs and can benefit from having a release for their emotions but be sure to tell your club is your dog is reactive. Extra behaviour training will also be required for you both to lead happy lives.

Otherwise you'll feel pants! 

The Handler

Agility is really not for the faint hearted. Training  a dog to do agility correctly is a time consuming task - it takes hours of patience, dedication and enthusiasm. Age is not a factor for the handler, a sense of humour is!!!

(Margaret Wright)

Remember Rome was not built in a day!!!

If you are looking for somewhere to teach you about basic control prior to starting agility best place to start is the APDT website. Kind, positive training to set you off in the right direction.