Agility is a dog sport that has several organizations– NADAC, USDAA and the AKC. Agility is a whole lot of fun and inspires teamwork between dog and handler regardless of whether they do it just for the fun of it or for competition. Together, handler-dog teams navigate a course of tunnels, jumps, seesaw, weave poles, a-frame, dog walk, and a chute for the best time on the course!
To try agility, check out my once monthly Just Do It! Dog Day events in Berlin Ma!
For a class in Watertown, Ma, contact info@k9traininggames.com!
Confidence Course Classes
Many dogs lack in confidence in every day situations. They are bombarded by noises and big, fast-moving objects that they perceive as threats to their survival. They respond as they know how- with barking and lunging and other ’aggressive displays’ or some variation of taking flight. Confidence course classes offer a sort of remedial exposure to a variety of surfaces and objects in a fun class atmosphere. This class is intended for dogs who are unsettled by novel sights and sounds… such as wheelchairs, canes, crutches, ramps, see thru stairwells, motorcycle helmets, umbrellas, costumes, sirens, doorbells, vacuum cleaners, and so much more. Participants will learn how to deal with their dog’s fear responses productively so to minimize future setbacks.
There are lots of good reasons to take one of these classes. Learning how to use a ramp (the dog walk!) early in life will make rehabilitation from an orthopedic injury much easier later in life. Most dogs get arthritis as they age and thus will benefit (and maybe even live longer) as a result of having done agility or a confidence course earlier in life. The most profound benefit for dogs and their people however is that of spending more quality time together and having a ton of fun doing it!
In the 2010 Bean Town Readers’ Choice Awards, I was voted Boston’s Best Agility Instructor!
Using target stick to teach weave poles
On the dog walk
Comments or questions are welcome.
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