What is Agility? Agility is basically an obstacle course for dogs. A combination of Equipment is used to set up a course and the owners navigate their dogs through each item until the end is reached, usually against the clock, but this would only be in a competitive environment.

The Equipment: The equipment consists of Jumps, set at appropriate heights for the different size dogs; the Tyre/Hoop; Tunnels, both hard and soft; Distance Jumps; the Weave; a 5ft high 'walkway'; the 6ft high 'A' Frame and finally the Seesaw. Some of this equipment can be quite daunting for you and your dog to do for the first time so patience is a must.

Contact Points: As well as learning how to negotiate the equipment, you may also learn to do something called 'contact points', this skill teaches you and your dog to hit the contact points on certain pieces of equipment, indicated by the Red areas on the Seesaw, 'A' Frame and Walkway. If the dog misses these areas whilst racing around a competition course they will receive a time penalty point against them for not making 'contact' with these areas. It can mean the difference in competition to winning or losing and on these pieces of equipment is also a safety aspect.

How do I go about joining a group? To find a local group in your area you could try contacting the Kennel Club, they should be able to provide you with a list of approved Agility Groups. You could also try a search on the internet for a group in your area, or ask at your local vet, they may have information on groups in your area. If you can't find a group nearby, call the closest group to you, they are likely to know of other groups that might not be registered with the KC. Always ensure your group has properly trained instructors and that you and your dogs safety is taken into consideration at all times.

Will I be able to start agility straight away? Not always, most clubs will insist you attend an assessment where very basic handling skills will be assessed and the dogs temperament will be under scrutiny. The instructors will be looking at how your dog reacts to you, that they are paying attention to you and that they are happy to be with you and following your basic instructions. They will be looking for a 'harmony' or 'bond' between dog and handler that will stand them in good stead for such an activity. They will also be making sure that the dogs temperament is suitable, they will not be interested in a dog that shows aggressive tendencies and that will not listen to their owner when a command is given. They will not be looking for an obedience champion, basic obedience is all that is needed. Don't' forget that Agility is a team event - you and your dog working together.

Will I have to do any special training beforehand? No, but it helps to have basic obedience, this is all that should be needed.

Will it cost a lot of money? Again, this may vary from group to group, but it shouldn't cost too much to attend. You may have to pay a membership fee first, then usual costs are from about £2.50 per class. Course costs also vary from group to group but from about £65 for an 8 week course is the average. For details of costs for Corton ATS follow this link.

Do I need to buy any special equipment? No, you can buy agility equipment quite cheaply on the internet, but it depends how involved you wish to be. The Group you join will have all the equipment needed for training, but you can, of course, buy your own if you have a big enough garden to practice in. We would however never recommend learning agility without professional guidance as you could end up injuring yourself or your dog.

Will my dog need any special equipment? Yes, a good collar and lead, take a spare of each just incase you have a breakage. An instructor will insist on this, if you break either the collar or lead you will be asked to leave the class as you must be able to maintain safe control of your dog while others are being trained. Also a favorite toy that your dog likes to chase or treats to help reward your dog are a good idea. Also make sure you have a 'contact' this can be a clean Jam Jar lid or a flat piece of soft edged plastic (no sharp points) this will be for the above 'contact' training which you will learn about on your course if this is covered by any group you join.

Will 'I' need any special equipment or clothing? Not really, but this depends on the venue you end up training in, a jumper to keep you warm and a good pair of training shoes is a good idea. Most Groups train in large undercover barns which can be cold unless you are running around. Don't wear your best jeans, get an old pair or tracksuit bottoms, it can be a messy activity.

How old does my dog have to be to do Agility: This depends on the type of dog you have, with the larger breed dogs about 2 years old for the smaller breeds 9 to 12 months old, your chosen club will be able to advise you.

Do's and Don'ts' Tips:

Don't forget, DO NOT feed your dog or give your dog too much water before a training session, your dog could suffer a torsion if they have just eaten or if they have drunk too much and you then encourage them to jump and run about an agility course. Make sure you feed your dog much earlier than you would normally, or, after you have got home and your dog has rested for at least 3/4 of an hour or when calm.

Do remember to take a bowl and some water for your dog to drink, don't give too much just enough to wet the mouth and have a small drink after the session, your dog will be thirsty after all their hard work.

Don't take your dog to a class if they are showing signs of being unwell or are injured, its not worth the risk of passing on an infection to other dogs or making a current illness or injury worse in your own dog, wait until your dog is completely fit and well.

Do always show your dog how happy you are when they get it right, like any training this will be the only way they know they've got it right.

Don't get cross when your dog doesn't manage to do what you have asked, they will be disappointed too that they haven't managed to achieve what you've asked of them, reassure them and above all be patient, they'll get there in the end.

Do remember to have fun, and enjoy it, its a great activity and your dog will love the fun it brings into its life.

We hope that the above has given you some clue of what to expect and how to go about getting involved in Agility.

Good luck and have fun.