Agility Training For Dogs

By Cheng Bernhardt


Just like people have become more sedentary throughout the last few decades, it seems like our animal companions have had to follow suit. But just like people, dogs need physical activity and they truly enjoy running and jumping and playing. Certainly, we have all seen those cool dogs navigating various obstacles on TV and having a great time, and this type of agility training is actually something your dog can do at home. Here is some information about the importance of agility training for dogs.

One of the best reasons to consider agility training is because it provides a high level of exercise, which is extremely beneficial for any breed of dog. Many breeds truly need to spend some time each day with some intense exercise, and agility training provides interesting and challenging exercises for your animal. Even a more sedentary breed is sure to enjoy some agility training if the training itself is not as intense as it might be with a border collie or an Australian shepherd.

While some dogs are content to sit on a cushion during the better part of the day, some dogs become destructive and will whine or bark if their exercise needs are not met. In the wild, dogs hunted and chased their prey, jumping over logs or streams and running around trees and rocks and other natural obstacles. The activities in an agility course are designed to be just like this natural and instinctive behavior, so allowing your dog to enjoy agility training is a great way to cater to this ingrained need.

Another great benefit of dog agility training is that it will increase the bond that you have between you and your canine. During training, you will be learning how to give both verbal commands and hand signals to guide your dog through the course. Learning these types of commands will translate into other areas, such as improving general obedience. Your dog also will enjoy all the praise that accompanies the successful completion of the course. Dogs work hard not only because these obstacle courses are fun and engaging, but also because they love to please their human companions.

Of course, the owner gets plenty of exercise as well, which definitely is a solid benefit. Almost all of us need more activity in our life and this can be a fun way to get outside and get moving. Combine agility course workouts with a couple of good long walks during the day, and you and your dog both will be in good shape in no time at all.

There are many different types of equipment to consider purchasing in order to create your own agility course. A basic starter kit, from a dog agility training specialist such as Carlson-Agility.com, includes 12 weaves and four jumps. This equipment is sturdy and easy to assemble and disassemble. You could also opt for a starter kit that includes the jumps and weaves, as well as a teeter totter, which can be adjusted. There also is a kit that includes a tire jump instead of the four jumps, as well as weaves and a teeter. There are plenty of other options, and you can add fun obstacles as time goes by.




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