• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
DogsBestLife.com logo

Dog's Best Life

The information you need to keep your dog happy, healthy, playful and loyal.

  • Top Stories
  • Blog
  • What We Do
  • About Us
  • Contact Us

Dog agility training: A simple guide for beginners

Posted November 10, 2020

Happy corgi exits dog agility training tunnel.
Dog agility training benefits you and your dog. The training challenges your dog mentally and physically. it also enhances your bond.

There is a common misconception about dog training. Training is not done for the sake of good behavior only. In fact, dog agility training is great for your dog’s physical and mental health.

The purpose of agility training is to ensure that your dog is fit, calm, and happy. Of course, they will also listen to your directions and behave better. Though it is not because they are trained to do so, but because you learn how to communicate with them on a whole different level.

Overall, there are numerous reasons why you should start dog agility training as soon as possible, especially if you have a new young dog at home. For those who feel lost about how and where to start such training, we have prepared a simple guide to dog agility training for beginners. It should answer all your questions and ease any doubts.

Why dog agility training?

First things first, you may wonder why you and your dog should go through dog agility training and whether both of you have what it takes. Let us assure you, agility training has a number of advantages over any other type of training.

First, it creates a better bond between you and your pet. You spend some quality time together.

In this sport, dogs get to exercise with a sense of purpose, which is good for their mental health. At the same time, you are learning to understand your dog’s character and behavioral patterns better.

You also learn how to overcome those behavior patterns that you’d prefer to avoid in the future. Hence, you solve some behavior problems and learn to trust your dog more, even without a leash. 

Next, it is more productive than just regular exercises. Dogs feel the purpose of the training, hence it is more rewarding for them. Moreover, this training is designed to train your dog’s body and mind. As a result, after an hour of such exercises, your dog will be calmer, sleep better, and feel less anxious throughout the day. 

Last but not least, agility training will make your dog happy. For them, it is less training and more fun playing time with their favorite humans. Hence, your dog will be just glad to spend so much time with you. 

How do you start?

Sheltie navigates an agility training course at home.
If you choose to train your dog at home, you’ll need to create proper obstacles to make the training fun for you and your dog.

Overall, you have multiple choices here. You may look for local dog clubs to see whether they offer agility training (spoiler: they all do), seek professional dog training, or try training at home. There is no right or wrong option.

Of course, training in a club with a professional trainer will be much easier, and, perhaps, productive.

Though, if you feel confident in your dog and abilities as a coach, you should definitely try it at home. However, if you decide to train at home, do it because you find it the best fit for you, not because you don’t feel good about club training.

Don’t fall under the misconception that you need to be an athlete to go through your dog agility training. Or think that you have to compete with your dog.

You don’t. You can choose a pace that is comfortable for you. Also, don’t think that dog clubs won’t find your Yorkie to be good enough for this sport. It’s not true, any dog can be trained for agility, there are no breed limitations. 

What do you need for agility training?

We’re glad you asked. If you have chosen to try at home, you’ll need some special equipment. This is not hard to find after reading some best dog supplies reviews or you can make it yourself.

You need to create proper obstacles to make the training fun for you and your dog. We recommend visiting at least a couple of professional agility training sessions to see the obstacles needed.

This can do two things for you. First, you’ll see how to work as a handler during the training. Second, you’ll see the variety of obstacles and note what your dog likes the most. 

To sum up

We all want what is best for our dogs. We do love to spoil them time by time or allow the things we know we shouldn’t.

Sometimes, the idea of sending them to some training seems unnecessary or even semi-cruel. Not all of us love to exercise ourselves, so why should we make our dogs do it, right?

But signing up for dog agility training is the best thing you may do for your pet. In fact, it will be a rewarding experience for both of you. Your dog will feel better by training both mind and body. You will enhance your bond, and, not to forget, you both are going to have so much fun! 

Is it better to have two dogs?

 

Related Posts

  • Shetland sheepdog or sheltie runs an agility course. Agility training helps dogs build confidence and learn to pay attention to their handlers. The training includes activities such as jumps and tunnels.
    Is agility training the right sport for your dog?

    Agility training helps dogs build confidence and learn to pay…

  • Man trains Golden Retriever to shake. Train your dog at home: Prevent bad habits like barking, biting and chewing by focusing on simple obedience commands. Keep training sessions short and fun.
    Tips for training your new dog while you're stuck at home

    Train your dog at home: Prevent bad habits like barking,…

  • Woman trains Labrador Retriever. Training your dog is an excellent opportunity for puppy and owner to bond and establish a power dynamic so your pup learns to respond to commands.
    Pro tips on training your new dog

    Training your dog is an excellent opportunity for puppy and…

  • Dog training voice: Use both tone and volume to communicate when training your dog. Strong vocal commands are especially important when working with big dogs like this Bermese Mountain dog.
    Dog training: Use your most important tool — your voice

    Your dog training voice is key to success. Be calm.…

Share this post:

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Pinterest Share on Email Share on Reddit

Filed Under: Dog Training Tagged With: Canine exercise, Dog training tips

« Previous Post
Next Post »

Primary Sidebar

Follow Us

Categories

  • Adoption
  • Dog Breeds
  • Dog Facts
  • Dog Fun
  • Dog Grooming
  • Dog Health
  • Dog Inspirations
  • Dog Training
  • Dog Travel
  • Holidays
  • Home Page
  • Puppies
  • Top Stories

Featured Posts

  • Tricolor Australian shepherd in front of white background. Take steps to stop dog pawing.

    Canine body language: What’s your dog saying with his paws?

  • Cute corgi puppy wrapped in a blanket. Talk with your vet about starting your dog on medication to protect him from parasites including flea and tick prevention, as well as heartworm prevention.

    Puppy training 101: 10 tips to prepare your dog for success

  • Thinking of getting a furry friend? Use the DogsBestLife.com perfect dog breed quiz to find the perfect canine companion.

    Take our dog breed quiz to discover the perfect breed for you!

Tags

Pet sitterVeterinarianSocializationVacation dog careTickstraining tipsTwo dogsThanksgivingRescue dogOld dogsRottweilerPotty trainingSeparation anxietyPomeranianValentine's DayPit bullPuppy kindergartenPandemicOutdoor activitiesWorking dogsPoodleYorkshire terrierPawService dogsPet parentsSmall dogsPuppy-proofWaterSheddingPetfinder.com

Footer

Quick Links

  • Home
  • Top Stories
  • Blog
  • What We Do
  • About Us
  • Contact Us

Recent Posts

  • Balancing cleanliness and canine comfort: The ultimate guide for dog owners
    Balancing cleanliness and canine comfort is crucial for the well-being of your pet. This guide is for you if you want to achieve this balance. […]
  • The importance of a balanced diet for dogs: Why and how you should care
    Feed your dog a balanced diet with the right mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Ensure they get the right amounts to stay healthy. […]
  • Use 5 factors to choose the best veterinarian for your dog
    Research thoroughly and consider location, services, experience, cost, and staff before choosing the right vet for your dog. […]
  • Fight insomnia: 12 tips to help your dog get good sleep
    The most common cause of canine insomnia is pent-up energy. Help your dog sleep all night by ensuring it gets enough exercise. […]

Get Our Newsletter

Get more news to help keep your dog healthy delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for DogsBestLife.com's monthly newsletter.

© Copyright 2023 DogsBestLife.com online magazine · All Rights Reserved · Privacy
Get Our Free Monthly Newsletter

Get more news to help keep your dog healthy delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for DogsBestLife.com's monthly newsletter.