Agility

[mantine]

Not sure if I am posting this in the right area....but here goes. I would like to get Grizzley into agility. There is a class coming up in October that I want to sign him up for, its a just for fun agility class, not for competition but does anyone out there reccomend any websites to go to to read about agility and how to get into it? I don't think I want to do competitions, I have never done agility training before, I just want to have things around the house to keep Grizzley physically and mentally busy. We have 2.5 acres so to set up a small course on the property wouldn't be a problem.

 

[Dekka]

Yay agility is so much fun (and very addictive) It shouldn't make a difference if you wish to compete or not, basic classes are the same. It is safer and much more fun if your dog has a good foundation. (and the bonus is if you decide to compete down the road you don't need to spend lots of time retraining)

If you google agility articles, agility terms, etc you will get lots of info. Another way to learn lots is to go watch a trial for a day.

 

[britishbandit]

Why not call the place you're thinking of going to ask them? I'm sure they can give you some help on things you can do at home now until the class starts. Most places will also require that your dog already know specific commands and be good with other dogs, especially if the class is a multi-dog class. Most are I believe. But they usually require a certain level of obedience, whether it's self taught or was learned through actual classes.

 

[tessa_s212]

Before paying or committing to any class, it is always a good idea to sit in and watch a class. This ensures you can check out the methods and make sure you are comfortable with them(gentle, run training), as well as see what its all about and get an idea of what you will be doing.

And as Dekka suggested, if there are any nearby trials, attending and watching could also be a great learning experience.

 

[adojrts]

I agree the training SHOULD be the same, but sadly so many places over FUN Agility.
You may decide in the future to compete and as Dekka stated, you then HAVE to retrain, which will cost you much more in money and time.

Instead of asking the people who are offering the class, try to find an Agility Trial in your area...........go watch and talk to people, most people competing can direct you in the right direction as to who is a better trainer. But more importantly they can tell you who to stay away from.
also an excellent source of info on agility is www.cleanrun.com
Good luck
Lynn