Dog Agility

Dog agility is an exciting dog sport that requires the dog and handler to work as a team to navigate through different numbered obstacle courses. There are many different venues that host agility trials, and each have a slightly different style of courses. The two primary ones in the U.S is North American Dog Agility Council (NADAC) and American Kennel Club (AKC). Other agility venues are Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA), United States Dog Agility Association (USDAA), UKI Agility International, and World Agility Championships. I am sure there are more than what is listed, these are the ones I am familiar with.

Each dog agility venue has their own rules and regulations so be sure to read their rules and bylaws. I run my dogs primarily in NADAC agility trials. In NADAC there are 4 levels of competition that the dog will progress though while earning titles. Those levels of competition are Intro, Novice, Open, and Elite. NADAC has eight classes that consist of different obstacles that you and your dog can compete in. Those classes are Gamblers, Grounders, Weavers, Tunnelers, Touch N Go, Chances, Jumpers, and Regular Agility. NADAC allows the use of a dog walk, a-frame, weave poles, open tunnel, non-winged jumps, winged jumps, hoops, and barrels in their agility trials.

For more in depth information, you can visit NADAC’s website and read through their Exhibitor’s Handbook. I offer private lessons and group agility classes if you have more questions!