Dog agility is one of the most exciting sports to watch, but it’s even more fun to participate. If you have a canine companion and you are considering trying out dog agility, you might be wondering if your dog is a good match for agility and what type of dogs are the best fit for this sport.
A Timid Dog
Dog agility competitions accept all breeds and mixed breeds, but not all breeds are a great fit for competition. A very timid or shy dog might not enjoy the bustling aspect of competitions, which tend to be crowded with handlers, spectators and other dogs. While competitions might not be a match, a timid dog still might love using agility equipment and it can even help to build up their confidence.
Aggressive Dogs
Aggressive dogs, whether they dislike humans or canines, also probably should avoid the dog agility competition circuit. However, they might love using agility equipment and the exercise combined with the training can reduce their level of aggression overall so it can be a way to reduce this problem. Simply set up some agility equipment in your backyard and let them take out their aggression on the teeter, some jumps and the a-frame.
Small Breeds
While it’s obvious that larger dogs such as Australian shepherds enjoy zipping around the dog agility course, what about the smaller pooches? In competition, dogs are organized into height classes, to level the playing field. Your little Yorkshire terrier won’t be competing against a golden retriever. Instead they will enjoy shorter jumps and equipment that’s much more manageable for their size. The big dogs shouldn’t have all the fun, and small dogs, even toy breeds can have a blast with dog agility.
Deaf & Blind Dogs
Dog agility is a very inclusive sport, open to dogs of all breeds, mixed breeds, different sizes and sometimes even disabled dogs. Deaf dogs and dogs that are partially blind can compete with some organizations. Even if you don’t wish to participate in dog agility competitions, your blind or Deaf pooch still may enjoy using agility equipment.
Most of the cues handlers use tend to be visual, so a Deaf dog doesn’t need to hear in order to navigate an agility course. In fact, many Deaf dogs have competed in dog agility very successfully, so don’t ever believe that because a dog cannot see or hear that they cannot be trained or enjoy fun activities such as dog agility.
Disobedient Dogs
Did you know that the majority of dogs in shelters are surrendered due to obedience issues? That’s a sad reality, and what’s worse is that virtually any dog can be trained if you just stick with the routine and have some patience. When dog owners fail to teach basic obedience skills, they can miss out on a fabulous relationship filled unconditional love and loyalty.
If you are struggling with a “naughty” dog that doesn’t follow commands or a dog that barks too much or perhaps a dog that scratches on walls and furniture, dog agility and using agility equipment can be a fantastic way to solve these issues. After all, dog agility is fun for dogs and their enthusiasm for jumps, tunnels, teeters and weaves combined with their innate desire to please, makes them fantastic students.
Sometimes dogs are destructive and misbehave simply because they have too much energy. Dog agility provides them with an outlet for this energy. Sometimes dogs misbehave because they are scared or perhaps don’t fully trust their human companions. Again, dog agility provides a bonding experience that builds trust between human and dog. Still other dogs simply have not been taught to follow basic obedience commands, and using agility equipment, such as the pause table, can be a great place to teach some obedience skills.
Puppies & Older Dogs
For puppies, using mini agility equipment can be a great way to expend energy as well as teaching obedience skills. Older dogs, provided they are in good health, also may have a great time using agility equipment. Most competitions have a category specifically for senior dogs, where the jumps are a bit lower and the time restrictions aren’t quite as tight.
In general, if your dog is healthy and energetic, they probably will enjoy dog agility and using agility equipment whether you decide to compete or not. Dog agility tends to be a less viable choice for lackadaisical pooches as well as breeds prone to breathing issues or breeds with very short legs. But if your dog loves to play and has no health issues, agility can be a perfect option, and if you want to get started, just take a look at our vast selection of high-quality dog agility equipment.
