Dog Agility is exciting for both dogs and handlers, the object being to negotiate, with your dog, a series of obstacles as swiftly and accurately as possible.

There are many different ways to train the basics in agility. Down District D.T.C. uses motivational methods to encourage both handler and dog to discover the best way achieve their aims.

Training is always on-going and goal setting is encouraged at all levels, whether it is just to enjoy an activity with your dog or whether it is to compete at the highest level nationally or internationally. As dogs cannot compete until they are 18 months old, early training is focused on ground work and basic control.

There are numerous agility events throughout Ireland and points gained at Kennel Club sanctioned events in N.I. are totalled annually to produce the top agility and jumping dogs. Even dogs and handlers that never win a class can gain points for clear rounds leading to the achievement of their ‘Agility Warrant’. A new grading structure for competition, has come into operation at the beginning of 2007 whereby dogs can progress from grade 1 through to grade 7.

Personal and inter-club rivalry ensures that this amateur sport enjoys both social interaction and real competition! Trophies range from colourful rosettes to impressive pieces for your mantlepiece.

If you want to take part in agility, whether that be just fun or with competitions in mind, all you need is to have a fit and healthy dog with basic obedience training, to at least Bronze Award standard (see ‘pet dog training). This is where Down District D.T.C. can help. Agility is physically beneficial to both dog and handler but, most importantly, it is a tremendously enjoyable way to enjoy some quality time with friends, canine and human.

Interested?

Contact J Agate at jennifer.agate@btinternet.com or A Hanna at audreyhanna@btconnect.com for further information.

Club Agility Training