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How To Deal With Dog Behavior Problems and Obedience Training
Dog Agility Equipment Guide
Materials Used in Building Dog Agility Training Equipment Varies
Depending on its Purpose
When buying dog agility
training equipment it's important to be aware of differences that
affect durability, usability and cost.
In addition to the differences in size standards of dog agility training
equipment there are also differences in the materials used to
build them.
If you are going to build your own dog agility training equipment
you can save a few bucks by using regular PVC piping. It may have
some writing on it but it will cost less than furniture grade
PVC piping. Going with furniture grade will look nicer though
and will give you more options for connectors.
If it is for back yard use you can also get away with smaller
diameter piping than for competition use. For example, instead
of 1 inch piping the AKC (American Kennel Club) requires a 1 1⁄4
to 1 3⁄4 inch diameter for bar jumps.
Some manufacturers don't use PVC and choose to build their agility
equipment from very durable aluminum instead. This is good if
the equipment is going to be exposed to the elements.
Whether you decide to build your own agility equipment, buy less
expensive back yard models or go all out and buy competition grade
be sure to make sure it is safe for your Aussie.
Make Sure Your Dog Agility Equipment is Safe
Whether you are using your
own dog agility equipment or a competition course check the equipment
for safety. For example, I've heard of a tunnel being improperly
anchored with a chain holding it down between the ribs (instead
of across a rib). Where the chain went across the top it pushed
the tunnel roof down a couple of inches. Although the dog fit
into the opening of the tunnel, they were hurt when they raced
in and hit an anchored chain with their head. Ouch!, at full tilt
that's gotta hurt.
As agility equipment is subjected to normal wear and tear as
well as being exposed to the elements it can be damaged. Plastic
pieces may get cracks and slip-proofing can wear out. Make sure
to check your equipment and fix any safety problems you find.
What Kind Of Dog Agility Equipment Will I Need to Get
Started?
If you just want to set
up your own dog agility equipment in your own backyard
you and your Aussie will be impressing your friends, your neighbors
and the in-laws when they come over for a barbeque!
Most dog agility supply manufacturers and distibutors have starter
packages available. There are also different starter packages.
Usually you can get going with just a dog
agility jump and weave.
Add an agility teeter, a tunnel or a tire
jump for variety. But you don't have to start there. Try whatever
you like, so long as it works for you and your Aussie and you
are both having fun, go for it!
If you are looking for an inexpensive option Affordable
Agility offers an Agility-In-A-Bag™ set > that includes a 6 weave pole set, adjustable jump, adjustable
tire jump, pause box, tunnel & chute and an instruction manual
all in a handy carrying bag that makes it easy to take to the
park.
You may have to modify how you work with it if your puppy is
still young. For example agility jump bars may have to be put
on the ground or very low. You still train to learn the routine
and for communication but avoid the potential for injury to your
puppy.
If you are handy you can even build your own custom dog agility equipment.
This can be done fairly inexpensively. Free
dog agility training equipment plans are available and are
fairly simple to build but by the time you get plans, buy parts, spend hours cutting and assembling you might wish you had taken a look at what Affordable Agility has to offer – and it's shipped right to your door! (But I'll admit, and my wife will back me up on this... I'm not very handy.)
Bar Jumps
Tire Jumps
Weave Poles
Teeter Totters / See-Saw
Tunnels
Tables
A-Frames
Dog Walks / Contacts
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