Introdiction to Dog Agility

Dog Agility is a fast paced, fun and action packed sport that more and more dog lovers and owners alike are partaking in. I use to trial Coal for a short period of time through the Agility Association of Canada (AAC), but not for very long. We only ever did agility purely for fun, and I wasn't all that interested in titles and ribbons for Coal. The few trials we entered were a great learning experience, although I'd imagine the world of Agility has changed since then; it's been about 7 years since I stepped food on a trial floor!

However, I still enjoy participating and training my dogs in agility in our back yard, and they enjoy it too! A lot of my equipment has been broken or lost over the years, so we just have jumps and a tunnel to play with. In my experience, that's all you need to get a quick little work out for you and your dog anyway!

 What is a Dog Agility Course?

The course is made up of several pieces of equipment you must successfully maneuver your dog through, over and under in a timely manner and without faults.

 There are several different types of equipment;

Tunnels - Open-ended and closed-ended tunnels. Open-ended tunnels may be moved and positioned into different shapes; straight, C-shaped, or S-shaped are commonly seen.

Contacts - Large obstacles the dog must cross or balance on that consist of a "yellow contact zone". Dogs must have at least two front paws on most of the contact obstacles to "clear" the obstacle. Common contacts are: A-Frame, Dog Walk, Teeter-Totter (AKA: See-Saw) and Cross-Over.

Weave Poles - 6 to 12 poles are commonly seen. Dog must enter on the right between the first and second poles, and weave between the poles. Missing poles equals a non-completion penalty.

Veterans and Specials classes are different heights

Jumps - Jumps come in the most variation of all the obstacles. Standard jumps consist of two bases that hold up the PVC poles the dog must jump over. Jump heights are based on the dogs height at the shoulders. Dogs must jump between the "wings" and over the top bar in the direction designated by the judge in order to clear the obstacle. The different types of jumps (also known as "hurdles") are; Standard Singles (one bar), Wings (wider stand so handler must work farther from their dog), Standard Doubles (two parallel bars), Spread (ascending jump, jump height and length), and Tire. 

Coal's AAC card. You must first register your dog with an Agility Club that sanctions the trial you wish to enter.

Stationary (Tables) - Also known as the "Pause Table" or "Pause Box", this is a table raised above the ground or a box outlining a space on the ground that the dog must sit or lay down on or in for a count of usually 5 (by the judge). The table is a great place for you to catch your breath and your bearings! 

Types of Classes and Courses:

Each game/course can be run in Starters, Advanced and Masters.

 There are many different ways in which an agility course can be set up and ran. 

Standard - A course designed of most or all obstacles. The goal is the best time and clear score on the course. A dog must achieve three qualifying scores under at least two different judges in the Starters Standard Class to be awarded the Agility Dog of Canada (ADC) title. The Starters Standard is the perfect place for newbies to start!

Jumpers - A course designed of mostly jumps and tunnels. Obstacles required are 8 jumps, 1 tire jump, 1 spread or broad jump, 1 double jump, and 1 flexible and/or 1 collapsible tunnel. This is also an excellent class to begin with if you are just starting trialing. 

Gamblers - This game demonstrates the handler's strategy and the dog's ability to work at a distance from the handler. The object of the game is to accumulate as many points as possible during the opening sequence and successfully complete the gamble. Dogs must complete obstacles successfully and in a timely manner. Dogs may attempt obstacles as many times as desired, but only 2 successful attempts may be awarded points. 

 Snooker - This game demonstrates the handler and dog's versatility as they work together against the clock. The object of the game is to accumulate as many points as possible in the opening and closing sequences within the allotted time. Each obstacle is designated a number which is it's points value. The handler and dog team must complete the obstacles successfully in the prescribed order by the judge.

Team Relay - Open to all dogs eligible to compete in other AAC events. Courses follow the design, rules and regulations as defined for the Masters Standard Class (please see AAC Rules and Regulations for details). A minimum of 12 obstacles shall be used with each dog on the team, performing at least 10 obstacles and no more than 12 obstacles. Each dog is required to perform at least 1 contact and a minimum of 10 weave poles. Each team consists of two dogs and two different handlers. Team Relay is a great way to enjoy agility with friends and the object of the game is to demonstrate team spirit, strategy and sportsmanship.

baby Coal! First time on the Teeter

Start Training!

Most communities offer some type of Agility training classes these days, and if they don't you can learn to teach your dog at home! All you need is a somewhat medium-large back yard and the right equipment. Equipment can either be purchased or built (at a fairly low cost!).

If you're training at home, I recommend using equipment that is similar or the same guidelines specified by the club or association you wish to compete in. If your equipment you are training on is of different measurements it may confuse your dog and result in an accident on course! Injury on the course can happen when dogs slip or bail off large equipment. Make sure your dog is healthy and in good shape before you begin training! Consult your veterinarian if you are unsure.

Training should start young and slowly. Introduce the dog to the equipment and basic obedience (Sit, Down, Stay/Wait, and Heel are common commands your dog should know before you begin agility training). Allow your dog to investigate each piece of equipment before attempting to navigate it. Dogs should NOT be training in full jump height and puppies should not attempt full jump height until their growth plates are fused. Jumping a dog before this time can result in permanent injury. Please consult your veterinarian if your dog is under 2 years old and you wish to begin agility training.

The Jumps are often the easiest obstacle to train and one of the most common (as they are used to connect different obstacles together). So I would recommend starting there!



Resources:
Agility Association of Canada
AAC Official Rulebook
Your First AAC Trial