Agility is obstacle courses in which the dog must compete a course design, including jumping through tires, climbing A-Frames, weaving through weave poles, and running through tunnels.

This is an excellent sport for dogs to build their confidence, and for owners and handlers to really bond and become one with their dog. It is also a great way for dogs to burn off excess energy.

Any breed of dog, big or small, can enjoy agility. Agility is taught with lots of rewards and no corrections, ensuring it is fun for both dogs and their owners. Beginner classes are recreational and non-competitive and provide an enjoyable introduction to agility. Advanced levels can prepare the dog/handler team for competition with the CKC or AAC for those interested. Any dog who has completed Intermediate Obedience (at Skiplyn) can enroll in beginner agility classes. Contact Tammy for more information.

Beginner Agility

This level introduces the dog and handler to the sport of agility. Obstacles such as jumps, the A-Frame, and the Dog-Walk are introduced on leash at low heights, until the dog can safely and confidently complete each one. Weaves are introduced using guides to help your dog navigate through. Tunnels and chutes are gradually extended to full length as the dog's confidence increases. Obstacle chaining is introduced, and by the end of class most dogs run simple courses. The prerequisite for this class is Intermediate Obedience.

Intermediate Agility

In this level, obstacles are reviewed and various sequences commonly found on agility courses are introduced. Obstacles are completed at full height and safe contact behaviour is reinforced. Dogs typically begin working off leash as the owners learn how to best handle their dogs through more challenging obstacle sequences. The prerequisite for this class is Beginner Agility.

Advanced Agility

This level explores more advanced handling through obstacle sequences at a level found in novice competition. Dogs and handlers develop handling skills and strategies for navigating through courses. This class prepares the dog/handler team for competition with the CKC or AAC.

Here, Rudy is earning a Title in October 2008.

Skiplyn Agility Title Count

The CKC offers standard agility titles in:

Standard
Novice - AGN  (Agility Novice)
Intermediate - AGI (Agility Intermediate)
Excellent - AGX  (Agility Excellent)

Jumpers with Weaves
Novice - AGNJ (Agility Novice Jumper)
Intermediate - AGIJ (Agility Intermediate Jumper)
Excellent - AGXJ (Agility Excellent Jumper)

Reason - AGN, AGI
Vixen - AGN, AGI, AGNJ
Cricket - AGN, AGI, 1/3 legs towards AGX
Rudy - AGN, 2/3 legs towards AGI, 2/3 legs towards AGNJ
Karma - AGN, 1/3 legs towards AGI

CKC - Canadian Kennel Club
AAC - Agility Association of Canada