Dog Agility

Possibly the best way to give an overview of the sport of Agility is to copy the Introduction from the ANKC Agility Rules:

1.1 Agility is a dog competition open to all dogs.

The aim of this competition is for a Handler to direct his dog around a course of different obstacles to assess and enhance the ability of the dog and Handler to work as a team. It is an educational and sporting activity intended to improve the dog’s integration into society. The sport requires a good rapport between dog and Handler, which results in perfect teamwork. Whilst speed of the dog is to be desired, steadiness of work is essential to a faultless performance of the course.

1.2 The overall objectives of Agility Trials are:

a.

b.

c.

d. To encourage a graded progression through the sport.

To encourage new participants and new ideas and the continuance of Agility as a unique canine discipline.

To encourage an increased level of fitness for dog and Handler.

To encourage safe and pleasant competition for all.

The Sport encompasses the classes Agility, Jumping and Games and it is one of, if not the, fastest growing dog sport in the world. It is open to all dogs whether they be registered and pedigreed, rescues or the dog you already have in your back yard. Big dogs, small dogs, medium sized dogs, all breeds from the largest Great Danes to the smallest Chihuahuas, you can see them competing somewhere all over Australia on any given weekend. Competitors themselves vary in age from juniors to people in their 70’s and 80’s and there are some disabled who compete in wheelchairs. It is definitely a sport for everyone. It is very exciting for both the dog and handler and it is a great spectator sport too. To see a dog on course is to watch something magical happen between the dog and handler as the dog reads the signals given by the handler’s body, as it is guided around the course. Some signals are so slight that a mere twitch of the handler’s shoulder or placement of a foot can determine which obstacle the dog attempts next and can be the difference between a clear round and fault. As mentioned before, this is a world-wide sport and the top Australian handlers compete overseas in the various World Agility Games. These

Image: Steve Uebel

competitors compete with borrowed dogs, so they have to be overseas sometimes weeks before the competitions to become familiar with their dogs. It is a great testament to their abilities that they regularly come away with top awards.

Agility is all consuming to those of us involved in the sport. Yes, there are many, many hours of training of both dog and handler before the team is ready to compete at a trial, but the rapport and ultimate trust that is developed during this time between the dog and handler is very special.

Training continues throughout the years to keep the team fit and healthy for each competition.

Agility is the ultimate way in which to enjoy our very special four-legged friends. Whatever the outcome, the look of pure enjoyment on the dog’s face will assure you of just how much fun they are having.

If you think that Agility might be the sport for you, contact your local Dog Agility or Obedience Club and speak with them. If it is easier, telephone Dogs Queensland on 3252 2661 or email info@ dogsqueensland.org.au and they will point you in the right direction. They can let you know when there will be an Agility Trial near you so you can check it out. Also, visit Facebook.

Image: Steve Uebel