You've no doubt seen dog agility trials at county fairs, on television, or as part of a demonstration at a breeders' event or competition, but did you know that the sport is becoming increasingly popular among pet parents and their animals? Whether you fancy yourself as an agility star, or would simply like to try something new with your four-legged friend, there are a variety of new tricks that you can learn in a relatively short period of time – all you need is a little dedication, and passion for your pet's happiness and wellbeing.
What Is Agility?
Agility is a sport in which dogs navigate a set of obstacles in the shortest possible time. From weaving posts and teeter totters to tunnels and jumps, each obstacle is designed to test a dog's abilities and reflexes, as well as the relationship between pup and pet parent. The sport is fun to watch, utterly enchanting for the dogs, and more importantly, a great way for people to get active with their pups.
Why Is It So Popular?
According to recent reports, the sport is increasing in popularity among millennials and retiree pet parents. Indeed, anyone who has a dog can try their hand at agility, though the most popular competing breeds are Border Collies, Shelties, Labradors, and Aussies. Agility is one of the best ways to spend quality time with your dog, and it can build an incredible bond between dog and pet parent – requiring loyalty and trust from both partners.
How to Get Started
While it's recommended that those who are serious about agility seek professional guidance from a trainer, there are many aspects of the sport that can be undertaken in your own backyard. Balance beams and small jumps are relatively easy and inexpensive to install and maintain, though more complicated equipment is best left to the trainers in order to avoid injury.
If you'd like to bond with your dog and want to exercise both mind and body, try something new by giving agility a go. We’d love to hear how you're getting on!
