Agility Classes

Agility is a fast-paced, fun sport that you and your dog can participate in together.  Working as a team, it is truly a bonding experience for you and your dog. Our classes introduce you to the special skills you need on the agility field, including training concepts, handler positioning and motion, and course analysis. We train on all the regulation AKC and CPE obstacles used in agility competitions.

WHAT IS REQUIRED TO ATTEND?

Dogs should be at least 1 year of age for Agility 1, 2 and 3.   Dogs over 9 months old on the class start date may take FUNdamentals.

Dogs must have 2 sets of the DHLPP vaccine ("puppy vaccine") prior to starting class. 

Rabies vaccination is required. A titer is sufficient for vaccination status.

We also recommend (but don't require) a Bordetella vaccine.

Prerequisite for All Agility Classes:

Completion of a basic obedience class OR proof of a good recall and basic obedience skills (sit, stay, down, etc.) is required.  For the safety of the dogs, any dog not actively participating in the training exercise must be crated. Good crate manners are essential. Socialized dogs are a must, any dog considered aggressive towards either instructors or other dogs will be excused.  Your dog should be physically sound and lean (weight-wise) as this sport is very physically demanding and could put stress on joints and tissue.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?



1. Lots of small, soft food treats as rewards.
2. Collar - please no pinch, prong, choke, or shock collars.
3. Leash - 4 foot nylon or leather. Please NO retractable (Flexi) leashes.
4. All vaccination records (listed on registration). Without these, you will not be allowed in the class.
5. Completed registration form or member registration form along with the class fee - we accept CASH, CHECKS or CREDIT (small fee).
6. On the first night of class, please plan to arrive 10 minutes early for registration.
7. It helps to have pants with pockets or bring something that attaches to your waist to hold your dog’s treats. 
8. YOU MUST have closed-toe comfortable (running) shoes.

HANDLERS: There are several different training tools used in agility and different instructors may train different methods. Handlers should be open to learning new methods then may choose what works best for their team after practicing different skills. Agility training involves a lot of practice. Working and training your dog outside of class is important to advance through the classes.

AGILITY FUNdamentals

This class is for the dog/handler teams who have not yet started their agility journey or want to revisit their agility foundation for more success. Topics include reward techniques, building motivation and drive, essential training and handling skills, impulse control, body control and proprioception exercises using simplified agility obstacles. Fun exercises are designed to enhance understanding and develop confident performance of basic obstacles and the spaces in between.

AGILITY 1

This class is designed for teams who have completed the Agility FUNdamentals class or who have demonstrated to the Instructor what is covered in the FUNdamentals class. Handlers continue to build relationship skills with their dog, improving drive, control, body positioning and handling techniques. Content will include short sequencing with emphasis on handling techniques and connecting as a team, weave poles, and contact equipment including A-frame, Dog Walk and Teeter Totter.  Equipment will be introduced at lower heights and simplified versions with the goal of advancing to full heights and normal performances. 

Participants should expect to take this class more than once until their dog is confident on all agility obstacles and the short sequences are easy.

AGILITY 2

This class is a continuation of Agility 1 and is designed for the team who has beginning agility skills such as executing jumps, tunnels, contacts and short sequencing. The team should be able to perform weave poles, and the full height contact equipment including Teeter Totter, A-Frame and Dog Walk with minimal assistance. This class will also introduce the agility teams to more advanced handling and sequencing. 

Participants should expect to take this class more than once until their dog is successfully performing all agility obstacles, 6 straight weave poles, longer sequences and more advanced handling skills with ease.

Alternate Prerequisite:  Previous agility training at novice level OR demonstration of control (recall, etc.) and confidence on all obstacles to Instructor prior to the first class.  Provide video or contact Instructor to arrange meeting.

AGILITY 3

This class is a continuation of Agility 2 and is designed for the team who is already competing and/or who wants to improve handling skills by training on advanced sequencing. The dog must be capable of performing all obstacles at a competition level including 6 Weave poles, Teeter, A-Frame, and Dog Walk. 

Alternate Prerequisite: Agility title, proof of previous advanced agility class or demonstration of skills to Instructor. Provide video or contact Instructor to arrange meeting.

The class levels may be combined depending on participation.