Whether you have a perky Australian shepherd or a more sedate Shih Tzu, both of these dogs might enjoy dog agility training. Typically, it isn't the breed or size of a dog that matters, but the personality of an animal that determines whether or not the dog is well suited to the agility course. Here are some ways to determine whether or not your dog might enjoy agility training.
If you are intimidated by the idea of agility competitions, don't be worried about that. Many people teach their dogs agility skills with no intention of ever entering a contest. There are other reasons why agility training is beneficial for pets. These activities provide a high level of exercise, which is very important for your dog. In addition, this is an engaging exercise which keeps dogs from getting bored. Spending so much time together also solidifies the bond between the two of you, which is so important, especially if you are working with a newly acquired dog or puppy. It increases obedience as well because the dogs must learn to obey many commands.
The first gauge of whether or not your dog is right for agility is their overall level of health. A dog that is older and weaker or perhaps one prone to neck or hip problems is probably not a great candidate for agility training. Breeds prone to breathing issues also might be poor candidates for agility training. Talk to your vet and ask them whether or not your dog is physically able to handle the strenuous nature of the agility course.
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.
If you are intimidated by the idea of agility competitions, don't be worried about that. Many people teach their dogs agility skills with no intention of ever entering a contest. There are other reasons why agility training is beneficial for pets. These activities provide a high level of exercise, which is very important for your dog. In addition, this is an engaging exercise which keeps dogs from getting bored. Spending so much time together also solidifies the bond between the two of you, which is so important, especially if you are working with a newly acquired dog or puppy. It increases obedience as well because the dogs must learn to obey many commands.
The first gauge of whether or not your dog is right for agility is their overall level of health. A dog that is older and weaker or perhaps one prone to neck or hip problems is probably not a great candidate for agility training. Breeds prone to breathing issues also might be poor candidates for agility training. Talk to your vet and ask them whether or not your dog is physically able to handle the strenuous nature of the agility course.
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:
Cheng Bernhardt loves dog agility training. To discover an agility equipment, or to find helpful agility dog training equipment such as dog agility kit, please visit the Carlson-Agility website now.
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