Dog agility training has been around for a relatively short time. It actually emerged in the 1970s as a form of entertainment. It was created in 1978 by two trainers who were seeking some diversion for dogs between events at a dog show in the United Kingdom. It was introduced at the 1980 Cruft's dog show by committee member John Varley. It was designed to keep the crowd happy between the different classes and did just that. In fact, the idea of dog agility soon took off after that, even on the other side of the pond. There were rumors of earlier dog agility training and equipment but nothing that could be proven. Regardless, it soon took off around the world and grew to the massive proportions it is at today.
In 1986, the first dog agility group was founded. Called the United States Dog Agility Association (USDAA), today it’s the leading organization for agility dogs and their owners in the United States. The USDAA might be the pioneer, but there are local dog agility groups all over the United States and the United Kingdom and other parts of the world. Dog agility training has become an exciting event for dogs and their owners, and the participation rate rivals that of more staid events, like dog shows and obedience trials.
Agility is a sport for all dogs, a sport for the active and less active dog. It’s a sport for purebred and mixed breed dogs. In short, it’s an all-dog sport that creates a special bond between owner and dog. Unlike obedience trials or dog shows, agility doesn’t restrict any dogs. It’s an equal opportunity sport.
In essence, dog agility is a competitive sport for dog and owner. The two compete together to complete a course within a specified period of time. The course might include any number of obstacles, including ramps, tunnels, see-saws and hurdles. Dogs might be asked to weave through poles or run through a tunnel and then scale a ramp. The sport is as much about the dog’s skill as the skill of the owner or handler, who is challenged to guide the dog through the course at a good clip and by using basic commands.
Dog agility training has been evolving. The availability of dog agility training and equipment has certainly expanded today and is now readily there for owners to take advantage of. With more equipment available and a greater level of competition, you can really get your teeth into it, so to speak!
