The Truth About Agility Training Dogs

Many dog owners who notice wonderful listening skills from their furry pals may consider agility training. Agility training teaches dogs to do all sorts of neat tricks, from learning to maneuver through obstacle courses on their own to displaying excellent listening behavior in front of an audience. However, when agility training dogs, owners must be prepared for a lot of work. Below is the truth about training dogs for agility competitions and shows.

In order for dogs to qualify for competitions, they must learn how to do tricks without physical help from their owners. For instance, you’re permitted to run alongside your dog while trying to encourage him or her through the obstacle, but you’re not allowed to touch the dog, his or her leash, or the obstacles. Many dogs have a lot of trouble learning to do things like this on their own, but it’s certainly possible. Owners need to put in a lot of work, but also allow dogs a lot of play time and down time as well.

Some of the things your dog might need to learn can be quite difficult. For instance, pole weaving is a complex trick for a dog. They must weave in and out, alternating between right and left through poles that are set up so many feet apart. A few other tricks include jumping over or through objects, making their way through tunnels, and running up and then down a teeter totter.

Before agility training dogs, have a check-up with the vet to ensure that your dog is healthy enough to participate in the activities they’ll be learning. Also, be sure that your dog is getting the proper nutrition and that you’re prepared to do a lot of work. Many owners also need to determine whether their pet has the natural talent and attitude to conquer agility training and be successful at it. If so, you’re sure to enjoy the outcome of all that hard work.