Saturday, August 16, 2014

Is Your Dog Right For Agility Training?

By Cheng Bernhardt


While you might think only certain breeds of dogs will enjoy racing around the agility course, dogs of any breed or mixed breed might enjoy these highly engaging activities. This is a fun sport for you and your dog to enjoy, but before you head online and start ordering jumps, weaves and tunnels, it is wise to assess your dog first.

Some people might avoid agility training simply because they don't wish to compete, but there are many benefits of agility training that are beyond the fun of competing. Contests aren't for everyone, but all dogs need exercise and agility training provides plenty of movement and varied movement which will ensure that your dog is really conditioning their body. Because they must follow many commands and signals, you will find that this training enhances your dog's level of obedience and improves the bond between owner and pet. Not to mention the fact that the owners enjoy some fun exercise, as well.

Before you start training, take your pet to the vet for a thorough check-up and ask your pet's doctor if your dog is physically able to handle agility. If you have an older pet or a pet that often has problems with their hips, legs or neck, you might want to avoid agility training. A dog that has problems with their breathing or tends to tire out easily also probably is not the best candidate for agility.

Temperament is another indicator of whether or not your dog is right for this sport. High-energy dogs usually do well on the course, regardless of breed. More than 100 different breeds as well as mixed breeds have competed at agility contests, some are small and some large, but all were enjoying themselves immensely. A dog also must be well socialized in order to compete; after all, there will be plenty of other dogs and people around. If your dog is timid, it might take more time for them to feel comfortable with the agility equipment, but it also can be a great way to boost confidence.

If your dog is in good health and full of energy, consider taking an agility training class. These offer you a low-cost, easy way to really get an idea of whether or not your dog is an agility dog at heart. Usually a beginning class will last a month or six weeks, and you will be able to see if you dog enjoys the agility equipment as well as seems to be learning how to follow your commands. It's also a chance to see if your dog can handle being around a variety of other dogs.

If all indications point to yes, it is definitely time to start collecting some fun agility obstacles. You can start out with just one item, such as a jump or tunnel or perhaps a starter kit from Carlson Agility. This agility equipment superstore offers a full range of obstacles and agility aids, as well starter kits and mini agility equipment. The mini equipment is perfect for your small dog or a puppy or even a dog that is a bit timid about learning the agility skills. They offer full-size and mini versions of dog agility a-frames, teeter totters, agility dog walks, tire jumps, pause tables and much more.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment