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Dog Agility Training and Competition
When It Comes To Agility Dog Training, Aussies Love The
Competition - And The Fun!
Champion dogs in agility dog training
are often Aussies. Of course, this comes as no surprise
to Australian Shepherd owners. Australian Shepherds are naturals
for this sport and dog agility competition is a perfect outlet
for their incredible energy and a showcase for their athleticism.
It is a fun sport that is becoming ever more popular. With dog
agility equipment, training, books and videos readily available
it is easier than ever to join in the fun. Although you can go
to a dog agility training center or join a club, this is a sport
for dogs that you can even enjoy in your own backyard.
The equipment for agility training and competitions can vary
as courses are often quite different. You can order your own equipment
and set it up to suit your needs (and the size of your yard).
There is even software to help you design the layout of your obstacle
course.
Dog Agility Training Introduction With Training Schools and Clubs
This sport offers a great
way for your Aussie (and you) to get some good excercise.
It's also a great way to meet new friends for both you and your
Aussie.
Training schools and clubs will help you get started. Joining
club will put you in touch with other enthusiasts who will be
able to share stories and training tips. Soon you will be on your
way to being a winning team - with lots of new friends.
The key word here is "fun". It has to be fun for you
and your dog. So dogs should not be forced or scolded into participating
or getting on, under, over or through a piece of equipment. Here's
a dog agility training tip. Start early with your puppy or your
dog and take it slow with your dog agility introduction. Use positive
reinforcement and rewards for encouragement.
Safety is Essential For Dog Agility Training and Competition
In order for agility training
to stay fun for you and your Aussie make sure to play
safe. You can begin agility training with your puppy but take
it easy. If they are still a little unsteady hold off on the balancing
equipment like dog walks and teeters until they are a bit older.
You wouldn't want your puppy falling off the agility teeter and
building a negative association with the equipment.
At the beginning the priority is familiarization with the agility
equipment, learning to work as a team and building communication.
If you have a puppy you might as well go slow because you won't
be permitted to compete until they are older anyway.
This is for the safety and well being of your dog. Puppies are
growing and their bodies are still developing. It is not
recommended to engage in more physically demanding aspects of
agility such as jumps and weaves until the growth plates of their
bones have closed. This can take from 6 to 12 months
depending on your dog and which bones. It takes longer for some
growth plates to close than others.
Start Introduction to Dog Agility Slowly
Some dogs can take much
longer than the average. Just because your dog appears
to have stopped growing does not mean that the growth plates have
closed completely. The growth plates will fill in as your dog
matures fully.
Dog agility competitions have minimum age requirements for this
reason. Some allow dogs to compete at 6 months, others insist
on at least a year, but why take chances. I would recommend that
you discuss this with your veterinarian and let her know exactly
what your plans are with agility training and competition.
Some owners have their dogs x-rayed to ensure that it is safe
for them to participate in agility training or competitions. This
is also a good record of your dog's baseline bone structure as
well as confirmation of growth plate closure. That way you have
a means of making a comparison if you need to later in your dog's
life. You will easily be able to see exactly how things have changed.
Just using common sense can eliminate most safety concerns. Can
your dog see well enough to do agility training? Are their nails
trimmed? (This will give them better traction.) Since your dog
will be off-leash, do they come when called? Are they well enough
socialized to get along with other dogs?
Where Can I Learn More About Dog Agility Training?
The dog agility sport is
gaining in popularity and there are many clubs and training
schools that can help you get started. If you just want to get
involved with agility training for your enjoyment or if you want
to go all out and someday compete for titles, this sport has something
to offer.
We will be adding more information, articles and resources to
help you get the most out of dog agility. We will also be creating
a directory of dog agility training clubs and schools to make
it easier to find someone in your area. Also look for our dog
agility training product guide. Please bookmark this page and
check back with us soon!
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Agility Equipment Index
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Agility Equipment Guide
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Dog Agility Equipment Plans
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