Agility
Fun and Exploration Class Descriptions
Fun and Exploration Class Descriptions
These classes will work on some of the basic components of agility in a series of fun games, exercises, and play. Teams will build confidence and understanding of different obstacles used in agility, such as the table, tunnels, planks and A-Frame, all at very low heights. Teams can work at their own level while learning about the exciting sport of agility and whether it is something they want to train with their dog. These are not agility competition training classes but rather agility skills classes. Dogs must be at least 5-8 months old (depending on breed/size)
Prerequisites: S.T.A.R. Puppy, Beginner Obedience, or permission of instructor
Agility I
Introduces the concept of positive, reward-based training, marking behaviors, mat work, proprioception (ladder, discs, wobble board, travel plank and perch). These are foundation skills which can be a gateway for any dog sport.
Agility II
Here we revisit foundation skills (above), board work, introduce plank work, table, A-frame, dog walk, tunnels and jumps, teeter/bang game. This course builds confidence with equipment at a low height, travel board and perch skills, agility heeling, target, hand touches, focus and impulse control games, could include crate games, one jump exercises.
Agility III
This class hones foundation skills such as sit/down stays, targeting, understanding the concept of back chaining behaviors, agility heeling games. Class may include crate games, and/or understanding the mechanics of front crosses, rear crosses. We continue all contact equipment (not at full height) working on speed and confidence along with 2 jump grids. Forward focus games.
Agility IV
We revisit all foundation exercises and hone behaviors for rear foot targeting, Channel weave poles, table, A-Frame (5ft), dog walk (not full height), and teeter (not full height), jump grids, recall/sends. Class may do 2-3 obstacle sequencing if forward focus and target skills are sound (such as tunnel/tunnel, jump/tunnel, etc).
Recreational Agility
This class is the last in our non-competition series and is appropriate for students that have
completed Agility IV or for retired competition dogs. Students can run courses with the complexity of an AKC Novice or Open level. Classes are a competition-based format – a walk through and instructor lead discussion of handling options. All contacts are lower than competition heights (A-frame 5 ft) but channel weaves are closed. Jump heights are at the discretion of the handler but must be appropriate for the age of the dog.
completed Agility IV or for retired competition dogs. Students can run courses with the complexity of an AKC Novice or Open level. Classes are a competition-based format – a walk through and instructor lead discussion of handling options. All contacts are lower than competition heights (A-frame 5 ft) but channel weaves are closed. Jump heights are at the discretion of the handler but must be appropriate for the age of the dog.