Agility is a fun and exciting activity that builds a strong bond between dog and handler. Dogs must navigate a course of obstacles without making mistakes and within the time allowed. Obstacles include jumps, long jumps, tunnels, tyre-jumps, and weave poles.
Contact Agility includes an A-frame, See-saw and Dog Walk where the dog is required to touch the coloured portion of the obstacle. Jump heights vary depending on the size of the dog, ensuring fair competition for dogs of all breeds and sizes.
The focus in Agility is on speed, accuracy, and control, with handlers guiding their dogs through the course using only voice, hand signals, and body language.
How Agility Works
The course consists of a variety of obstacles arranged to challenge the dog’s athleticism, obedience, and responsiveness. Handlers must memorise the course and guide their dogs efficiently through the correct sequence. Penalties are given for mistakes such as:
Dogs must complete the course within a designated time. The winning team combines the fastest time with the fewest penalties.
Levels of Competition
Agility is structured with various levels to allow dogs and handlers to progress through experience and skill. As teams advance, course difficulty increases with tighter turns, more complex sequences, and faster expected completion times.
Whether starting out in beginner classes or competing at advanced levels, Agility offers exciting challenges for both dog and handler.
Training for Agility
Dogs of all breeds and sizes are welcome to participate, provided they are healthy and physically fit. Training is essential to teach dogs how to safely and confidently navigate the variety of obstacles they will encounter.
Early foundation training focuses on basic obedience, introduction to obstacles at low height, and building confidence. As dogs progress, they learn to navigate full courses at competitive speed and accuracy.
Training also helps build fitness, balance, coordination, and the communication skills necessary for a successful Agility partnership.
Why Get Involved in Agility?
The course consists of a variety of obstacles arranged to challenge the dog’s athleticism, obedience, and responsiveness. Handlers must memorise the course within a designated time. The winning team combines the fastest time with the fewest penalties.
Agility is a rewarding activity whether pursued recreationally or competitively. It brings out the natural athleticism and intelligence in dogs, providing an outlet for their energy and enthusiasm.