Why would a dog need dog agility training? Aren’t most dogs born with the naturally ability to run, jump, chase after balls and fetch sticks?
It can be said that the majority of dogs are naturally talented athletes in and of themselves. Most have rather muscular bodies in relation to their overall bodyweight, which renders them capable of running fast, jumping high, and performing several other remarkable tricks. Yet, dog agility training involves not just training a dog to run or jump; it requires instructing dogs the optimum way to carry out specific stunts, how to execute certain duties on their owner’s command, bettering their time in obstacle courses, as well as training the dogs the best way to perform stunts in a certain way.
Dog agility training traditionally applies to show dogs that have to run, jump, or maintain a certain pace based on the show’s requirements. Competing dogs also must maintain step with their owners, adhere to a certain obstacle course in a specific order, and so forth. Merely learning to do these elements is just part of the exercise; a dog must also demonstrate aptitude for these commands in a specific way, at a certain speed, when given a unique signal, etc.
Even though it is entertaining to watch dogs that have undergone this kind of dog agility training, there are a few guidelines that owners should think about before they enroll their dog in this kind of school. For instance, most schools will only admit dogs that are 18 months or older. Dogs younger than 18 months are still maturing, and driving them to master a variety of stunts can stunt their growth or injure them long-term. It is also important to consider the natural physical makeup of certain breeds.
Smaller-sized dogs with shorter legs can’t always perform as well in jumps, while larger-sized dogs may have trouble with tunnels and the like. A reputable dog agility school will take these issues into account and adjust or modify its training depending on the dog’s size and breed. An owner who is seeking to train a dog on his or her own should certainly do the same.
Also, it is entirely possible that an owner may believe dog agility training must include punishment whenever a dog does not perform as desired, but dog training experts understand that it is more effective to reward a dog when it does well, as opposed to punishing it when it falls short of expectation. Rewards for a job well done can include treats, extra playtime, petting, and giving the dog its favorite toys. It is important to remember that dog agility training really should be an enjoyable thing, and not a chore or trauma for the dog or the owner.
Keep in mind that not all dogs respond precisely the same to dog agility training. Many dog breeds are just too nervous or excitable to run and jump on command, so be careful not to let your expectations overshadow the fun that dog agility training can be for you and your dog.
