Dog Agility Competitions Trending

It's Pupular!

The sport of dog agility has most of it origins traced back to 1978. For most people they have seen dog agility on television or movies or at their local park. Agility is a great way to not only give your 4-legged friend exercise, but more importantly it helps build or strengthen the human-dog bond. A big bonus of agility is that is fast evolving to be the most popular dog sport with the potential of beating out mainstream dog shows. In many competitions they allow for agility teams which makes it a great way to meet like-minded people that share the same passion.

Learn the Basics

Although the exact rules may differ from competition to competition most dog agility events are comprised of the same square foot area or agility track. For example, it is typical to have agility races take place in a 100-foot by 100-foot area. The team of handler and dog try to complete the course in the fastest way possible while adhering to the standards set by that specific competition guidelines. Common penalties and/or deductions include coming in contact with poles or knocking down poles, missing an obstacle, or veering off course are all typical infractions. The dog that has completed the course fastest while having the least deductions and as a result most cumulative points wins.

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The AKC Has Three Types of Agility Classes

Agility has three types of classes: Standard, Jumpers with Weaves, and FAST. The Standard class includes contact obstacles, tunnels, and various jumps and hurdles. Contact obstacles include the A-Frame, dog walk, and see-saw. There are two types of agility tunnels–the collapsed tunnel, and pipe tunnel. The Jumpers with Weaves class only has jumps, weave poles, and tunnels. This agility class is very fast-paced. FAST is the third class, which stands for fifteen and send. This course includes fifteen obstacles that measure a dog’s athletic ability and willingness to work with the handler. Each obstacle has a different point value. Besides the distance challenge, FAST courses do not have a set route.

For all ages, sizes. weights and breed!

Although it is important to be sure your dog is healthy enough and strong enough to perform. Each dog will run the same course with adjustments being made to cater to each height and speed.

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Agility Organizations in the United States

For agility, there are five organizations in the United States that sponsor competitions. Each has their own specific titles, meaning points cannot be mixed and matched between the organizations. While the obstacles do remain the same for the most part, there could be some slight differences between specifications. If you are interested in this sport, it is best to research to see what is the right fit for you. The five organizations are – AKC, CPE, USDAA, UKC, and the NADAC.

Whether you watch it on TV, compete, or just do it for fun, agility is a great way to give your pup exercise and enrich the bond shared between the owner and dog. There are many great options to get your pup involved; all it takes is a little research and time!