Agility Classes

 

Note:  Classes are often repeated, as each dog and handler team progress at their own pace. Dogs must meet prerequisites before moving to the next level.

Agility 1 – Introduction to Equipment
 

​Prerequisite - Successfully complete Focus Class.

 

Dogs and handlers will become familiar with agility equipment in a controlled setting.  Focus will be on sound jumping fundamentals.  Weave poles will also be introduced.  Dogs will learn the concepts of “two on /two off” which is foundation work for all contacts by use of a travel board.  This is a fun class where dogs and handlers learn the basics of agility and build a solid foundation.  Contact equipment at a low level, planks, tunnels, and table will be introduced.

Agility 2 – Beginner Agility / Novice Agility

Prerequisite - Dogs must be able to do travel board correctly and be a willing worker.

In this class dogs and handlers will continue to build on the foundation training from Agility 1 with lowered contact equipment, continuation of weave pole training and jumping skills.  Handling skills such as the front cross, rear cross, push/pull will be taught using flat work skill sets.

Agility 3 – Pre-Competition Agility

Prerequisite - Dogs must be able to complete all contacts in a controlled setting and 6 weave poles.

 

In Agility 3, the contact equipment will be at full height and dogs will be running short sequences.  Emphasis now moves to handling skills and course evaluation.  Dogs will be introduced to 12 weave poles. By the end of this class, dogs and handlers will be able to complete a Novice Standard course.  The instructor will work closely with each team to determine when the team is ready to compete and to move to the next level.

Agility 4 – Competition Agility Class

Prerequisite - Dogs must be at the competition level, and ready to compete or are actively competing.  

All dogs at this level are required to have solid performance of the equipment, including contacts and 12 weave poles.  Course analysis and handling techniques are emphasized.  Handlers will learn skills to work away from their dog, sending their dog ahead, and working more complex sequences.

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