Reasons Why Your Dog Needs Agility Training

By Cheng Bernhardt


Just like people have become more sedentary throughout the last few decades, it seems like our animal companions have had to follow suit. But just like people, dogs need physical activity and they truly enjoy running and jumping and playing. Certainly, we have all seen those cool dogs navigating various obstacles on TV and having a great time, and this type of agility training is actually something your dog can do at home. Here is some information about the importance of agility training for dogs.

Obviously, agility training is a fantastic form of exercise for your dog. Agility training is especially suitable for dogs that have a high level of energy. It allows them not only to run around and cavort, agility training keeps dogs engaged and interested. A daily walk is always a treat, but imagine how much fun your dog would have with a walk and also some time playing with agility equipment. While some breeds are naturally highly active, all dogs benefit from daily exercise, and agility training is excellent total-body exercise for your animal.

When dogs don't have enough exercise or become bored, they tend to get upset and can be destructive. This is especially true if you have a breed of dog that needs a great deal of exercise. Enjoying dog tunnels and chutes, agility dog jumps and other pieces of equipment actually helps them meet the needs of their natural instincts. The activities in agility courses are created to mimic the natural activity of dogs as they hunt for prey. Dogs love to hunt and chase, and agility courses offer an excellent way for your dog to enjoy these activities.

Another key benefit will be the increase in trust and obedience that comes from taking part in agility activities. Your dog will be learning how to navigate obstacles and also learning specific commands from you, and this level of obedience during agility play time will improve obedience in all other areas. Of course, there's tons of fun and praise involved in agility course training, so your dog also will bask in the warmth of your encouragement and approval. This also strengthens the bond between the two of you, and your dog will work diligently to improve skills and please you.

Of course, the owner gets plenty of exercise as well, which definitely is a solid benefit. Almost all of us need more activity in our life and this can be a fun way to get outside and get moving. Combine agility course workouts with a couple of good long walks during the day, and you and your dog both will be in good shape in no time at all.

Obviously, unless you are going to a training facility with an agility course, you will need to buy some equipment. You can get a great starter kit at Carson-Agility.com. This kit includes 12 weaves for your dog to navigate as well as four snap-on jumps. There is another kit that includes the jumps, weaves and an adjustable teeter. You also could swap this for a package that includes a tire jump, a teeter and 12 weaves. You can continue to add obstacles, such as tunnels and pause tables as your dog builds skills.




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