Agility Training for Dogs

The practice of dog agility training helps in releasing nervous energy and making them fit. In their natural habitats (wild), dogs have to hunt for obtaining food. Pet dogs may lose their natural instincts if not trained; thus, dog agility training is a must. Agility training for dog may differ with the weight and age of dogs. Training methods for most of the dogs are same, however, it necessary to wait for the right age to start the training.

Canine Agility Training

Training for agility generally starts at the age of 9 months. Some breeds of dogs, however, need more time to get ready for such kind of training. Few dog breeds need to gain certain amount of weight for performing agility drills with ease. Agility training for dogs could prove to be dangerous if the body joints are still weak.

Training should be started when the dog reaches right age. It is necessary to keep one thing in mind, that not every dog learns quickly. The dog behavior along with its physique is an important thing to be considered. Being patient with dogs and teaching them at their own pace is the key for effective training. First of all, one should teach basic commands of obedience to the dogs. Dogs that are active and maybe over-confident, need to be trained for self-control. Boosting the confidence of those dogs which are timid and a bit lousy is very important. The whole training affair should not turn into a 'punishment session'.

Training Equipment
Equipment needed for agility training of dogs include tire jump, weave poles, bar jump, collapsed chute, tunnel, table and dog walk. Tire jump is an equipment which is commonly used for making the dogs agile. Bar jump equipment includes a horizontal bar supported by poles. A collapsed chute has a round opening through which the dog enters a fabric tube. The fact that this fabric tube is collapsed challenges the dog to find his way out of it. The tunnel is a simple equipment which can be used in training different types of dogs. Amongst the different training equipment, this one is most challenging and raises the bar for development of skills and agility. The tables used for agility training help in gaining control over movement. Dogs are expected to just stay for a while on the table and proceed. This small waiting period is very important in the development of patience in dogs. The 'dog jumps' consist of a balance beam with ramps present at the ends.

Advantages of Agility Training
Dogs which undergo agility training tend to become alert, active and energetic. Their confidence also rises and they become capable of solving problems encountered in day-to-day life. The problem of dog obesity can also be dealt with effectively through agility training. During the training period, one gets to know his dog in a better manner and understands its needs. Apart from the benefits associated with physical fitness, the pets develop an emotional bond with the owner.

Tips for Agility Training
Dogs who are properly trained to follow obedience commands do well in competitions. This is because, such dogs know the basic moves. So, it is advisable to train them properly. It is recommended to train the dogs for various equipment gradually. Adding new equipment one-by-one in the training schedule would help in step-by-step development of skills. The dog training advice provided in the article above, would prove to be of some help.

Dog agility training is a good practice to make these canines healthy and fit. The agility training for dogs could yield excellent results if conducted properly and in a playful environment.