Dog Agility Training Equipment

So you've decided to begin some dog agility training. Obviously, one of the first things you're going to want to do is choose some equipment. The type of equipment you choose is going to depend on a couple of different factors. The first thing to consider is what you are looking to accomplish. Some people are looking to participate in intense agility training with the goal of organized competition in mind. Others look at dog agility training as a way to bond with their dog and have fun. Either way, you have a few decisions to make. You could enroll your dog in agility classes if they are available in your area, or you could set up an agility course of your own at home.

What Is An Agility Course?

Every dog agility training course consists of certain elements. They include contact equipment, jumps, tunnels, weave poles, and pause tables. Contact equipment consists of things such as teeters, A-frames, and dog walks. Jumps are exactly what they sound like. They are obstacles or hurdles that your dog must jump over. Tunnels and chutes are pretty self-explanatory as well. Weave poles are set up in a series that your dog must weave their way through. Pause tables are a very important part of any dog agility training course. This is basically a home position for your dog where they will learn several of the commands they need to know.

Home Agility Course

Even if you are participating in dog agility classes, it's still a good idea to have certain equipment at home to practice on. The type and style of equipment you choose will depend largely on the size of your backyard. If it's big enough, you can choose to set up actual competition sized equipment. If your available space or your budget will not allow this, there is a variety of mini agility equipment you can use. Obviously, this equipment takes up less space and is considerably more affordable. If you're training a puppy, there is also equipment designed especially for them. An example of this would be dog walks with railings so your puppy does not fall off and injure himself.

A popular choice for beginning dog agility training is a contact trainer. This piece of equipment incorporates several elements into one convenient unit. They will include a pause table with an A-frame on one side and a mini dog walk plank on the other. Weave courses can be set up at next to no cost. You can simply use a series of PVC pipe that is placed in the ground. Jumps are also an essential part of your dog agility training. For the most effective training, it is recommended that you set up between four and eight jumps.

Whether you're looking to have a little fun with your dog or train for competition, there are many pieces of dog agility training equipment for use at home.