ACT Companion Dog Club

Agility Entry Requisites

Entry Criteria for all levels are shown below together with Skills Guides for the Trialling levels (Novice, Excellent and Masters). Alternatively, you can download a PDF version of the Entry Criteria/Skills Guide for each level by clicking on the link adjacent to the title for each level.

Agility Entry Requisites - Level 1 (Click here to download PDF version)

Entry Criteria			Mandatory Optional
	•	Current financial member of ACT Companion Dog club (CDC).	M
	•	Paid agility training fee (or CDC instructor).	M
	•	Has reached the intake cut-off point in CDC's agility waiting list (or is current CDC instructor)Click here for Agility Intake Info Pack	M
	•	Team complies with all CDC rules and policies (e.g. vaccination).	M
	•	Has attended the relevant Agility intake lecture.	M
	•	The team has passed a formal Control test. The dog is not aggressive towards other dogs or people, and responds to their handler in recall and off-lead heeling, even with distractions. Handlers may use motivators (toys, food, praise) at any time during the test. We are looking for the dog being responsive to it's handler, not "obedience" style formal recalls and heeling.	M
	•	The dog is at least 14 months old.	M
	•	The dog has passed a formal Physical test. Has no obvious problems such as limping or stiffness. Is easily able to jump a low hurdle and can turn from one side to the other. Is not overweight	M


		There is no requirement to pass any particular level of obedience class before entry to CDC agility. This is covered by the formal Control test.
		The CDC Agility sub-committee can choose to promote/not promote/admit any team to any level after consideration of all relevant facts.

Agility Entry Requisites - Level 2 (Click here to download PDF version)

Entry Criteria					Mandatory Optional
	•	Current financial member of ACT Companion Dog club (CDC).			M
	•	Paid agility training fee (or CDC Instructor).			M
	•	Team complies with all CDC rules and policies (e.g. vaccination, agility waiting list, etc).			M
	•	Has attended at least 6 of the 8 classes of the previous session (if attended CDC agility Level 1). If classes have been cancelled due to poor weather or trials then promotion to Level 2 will be at the judgement of the instructor (with these entry requirements as the guide).			M
	•	Dog doesn't persistently disrupt class (e.g. by frequently doing "zoomies", displaying aggression to dogs or people, lunging/barking at other dogs or handlers, urinating on equipment).			M
	•	FOR NEW CDC AGILITY MEMBERS (i.e. have not been promoted from a lower level): Have attended a CDC agility intake lecture in the last 2 years, or undertakes to attend the next one. The team has passed a formal Control test. The dog is not aggressive towards other dogs or people, and responds to their handler in recall and off-lead heeling, even with distractions. Handlers may use motivators (toys, food, praise) at any time during the test. We are looking for the dog being responsive to its handler, not “obedience “ style formal recalls and heeling. The dog has passed a formal Physical test. Has no obvious problem such as limping or stiffness. Is easily able to jump a low hurdle, and can turn from one side to the other. Is not overweight			M

	•	Team has had exposure to all the obstacles listed below and is able to perform at least 6 to the standard described (remembering these are usually dogs with little agility experience):			M
			Hurdle (jump)	At low height.	O
			Spread hurdle	At low height.	O
			Broad jump	At narrow width.	O
			Hoop (tyre)	At low height.	O
			Flexible tunnel	Not necessarily at full length. May be straight.	O
			Collapsible tunnel (chute)	Not necessarily at full length. May be held open.	O
			Scramble (A frame)	At least 600mm high. Handler can show their contact strategy.	O
			Dog walk	"Baby" dog walk. Handler can show their contact strategy.	O
			Table	At low height. Usually reliable wait on the table (80% of the time).	O
			See Saw	Introduction to see saw, including wobble or ‘bang it’ board (tables and/or plank being held/encouraged). Handler can show their contact strategy.	O
			Ground Bars (ladder walk)	Dog has some awareness of location of rear feet	O

			Recalls (here/come)	Reliably able to recall dog (90% of the time).	M
			Contact Strategies	Able to describe and demonstrate a practical contact strategy (although not necessarily able to perform it successfully).	M
			Warm-ups & stretching	Handler is able to demonstrate appropriate warm-ups and stretching on their dog.	M
	•	Team has had exposure to all of the following and is able to do at least 8 at the standard described (remembering these are usually dogs with little agility experience)			M
			Independent performance of obstacles	Handler able to work most obstacles with dog on either side of handler (ie on left or right).	O
			Independent performance of obstacles	Dog able to perform obstacles with handler stationary and moving.	O
			Hand targeting, lead hand	Handler able to demonstrate hand targeting with dog following handler's hand (e.g. post turn, figure 8 exercise).	O
			Cues & Signals	Handler can demonstrate cues (voice/hand/body/movement) for each obstacle.	O
			Lead Out (wait)	Handler can lead out at least 2 metres from dog.	O
			Lateral distance	Handler can get at least 1 metre lateral distance.	O
			Angled approaches	Able to perform some obstacles with approach angles of at least 20 degrees.	O
			Send dog ahead	Handler can send dog ahead at least 2 metres. Use of target permitted.	O
			Sequences	Able to perform a simple sequence of 2-3 obstacles.	O
			Luring vs Rewarding	Handler is not relying on luring all the time (can use targets for contacts - these aren't considered luring).	O
			Targets/Toys	Handler can demonstrate appropriate use of Targets and/or Toys.	O
			Motivators (Play, Food, Toys, Praise)	Handler is aware of what, when, how to use. Is able to use in training to arouse dog, increase confidence, reward good performances.	O
			Call-offs	Handler can usually (80% of the time) call the dog off an obstacle if the dog isn’t too close	O
			Attention	Handler can reliably (90% of the time) get dog's attention when asked to do so.	O


		Proficiency with turns and side switches are not required to enter level 2.
		The CDC Agility sub-committee can choose to promote/not promote/admit any team to any level after consideration of all relevant facts.

Agility Entry Requisites - Level 3 (Click here to download PDF version)

Entry Criteria					Mandatory Optional
	•	Current financial member of ACT Companion Dog club (CDC).			M
	•	Paid agility training fee (or CDC Instructor).			M
	•	Team complies with all CDC rules and policies (e.g. vaccination, agility waiting list, etc).			M
	•	Has attended at least 5 of the 8 classes of the previous session (if attended CDC agility Level 2). If classes have been cancelled due to poor weather or trials then promotion to Level 3 will be at the judgement of the instructor (with these entry requirements as the guide).			M
	•	Dog doesn’t persistently disrupt class (e.g. by frequently doing “zoomies”, displaying aggression to dogs or people, lunging/barking at other dogs or handlers, urinating on equipment).			M
	•	FOR NEW CDC AGILITY MEMBERS (i.e. have not been promoted from a lower level): Have attended a CDC agility intake lecture in the last 2 years, or undertakes to attend the next one. The team has passed a formal Control test. The dog is not aggressive towards other dogs or people, and responds to their handler in recall and off-lead heeling, even with distractions. Handlers may use motivators (toys, food, praise) at any time during the test. We are looking for the dog being responsive to its handler, not “obedience “ style formal recalls and heeling. The dog has passed a formal Physical test. Has no obvious problem such as limping or stiffness. Is easily able to jump a low hurdle, and can turn from one side to the other. Is not overweight			M

	•	Team has had exposure to all the obstacles listed below and is able to perform at least 9 to the standard described. (remembering these are usually dogs with limited agility experience):			M
			Hurdle (jump)	At least 50% of competition height, with variations (wings, solid bar, double bar, decorations e.g. cones).	O
			Spread hurdle	At least 50% of competition height and width.	O
			Broad jump	At least 50% of competition width.	O
			Hoop (tyre)	At least 50% of competition height.	O
			Flexible tunnel	Full length. May be straight.	O
			Collapsible tunnel (chute)	Full length. May be held open.	O
			Scramble (A frame)	At least 1100mm (75%) high. Handler can show their contact strategy.	O
			Dog walk	Full height dog walk. Handler can show their contact strategy.	O
			Table	At least 50% of competition height. Reliable wait on the table (90% of the time).	O
			Weaving poles	Can do 4 poles. May be standard (i.e., no longer in a training configuration), offset channel (width of dog or less), guides (up to full set) or V channel.	O
			See saw	Can perform see-saw (tables and/or plank being held is encouraged at this level). Handler can show their contact strategy.	O

			Recalls (here/come)	Almost always able to recall dog (95% of the time).	M
			Lead Out (wait)	Handler can usually lead out at least 3 metres ahead of dog.	O
			Contact Strategies	Able to describe and demonstrate a practical contact strategy (although not necessarily able to perform it successfully).	M
			Warm-ups & stretching	Handler is able to demonstrate appropriate warm-ups and stretching on their dog.	M
	•	Team has had exposure to all the following, and is able to do at least 9 at the standard described (remembering these are usually dogs with limited agility experience):			M
			Independent performance of obstacles	Handler able to work most obstacles with dog on either side of handler (ie on left or right).	O
			Independent performance of obstacles	Dog able to perform obstacles with handler stationary and moving.	O
			Hand targeting, lead hand	Handler able to demonstrate hand targeting with dog following handler's hand (e.g. Post turn, Figure 8 exercise).	O
			Cues & Signals	Handler can demonstrate cues (voice/hand/body/movement) for each obstacle.	O
			Lateral distance	Handler can get at least 2 metres lateral distance.	O
			Angled approaches	Able to perform some obstacles with approach angles of at least 30 degrees.	O
			Send dog ahead	Handler can send dog ahead at least 3 metres (use of target permitted).	O
			Sequences	Able to perform a sequence of at least 3 obstacles.	O
			Luring vs Rewarding	Handler is rarely or never luring, but targets can be used.	O
			Targets/Toys	Handler can demonstrate appropriate use of Targets and/or Toys.	O
			Motivators (Play, Food, Toys, Praise)	Handler is aware of what, when, how to use. Is able to use in training to arouse dog, increase confidence, reward good performances.	O
			Call-offs	Handler can usually (80% of the time) call the dog off an obstacle if the dog isn't too close to the obstacle.	O
			Attention	Handler can reliably (90% of the time) get dog's attention when asked to do so.	O

			Post Turn (pivot)/180 turn	Handler can demonstrate an easy post turn and 180 turn.	O
			Here/Out	Handler has awareness of here/out (towards/away from the handler) and can discuss training strategies.	O
			Front cross/rear cross	Handler has awareness of front and rear crosses	O

The CDC Agility sub-committee can choose to promote/not promote/admit any team to any level after consideration of all relevant facts.

Agility Entry Requisites - Level 4 (Click here to download PDF version)

Entry Criteria					Mandatory Optional
	•	Current financial member of ACT Companion Dog club (CDC).			M
	•	Paid agility training fee (or CDC Instructor).			M
	•	Team complies with all CDC rules and policies (e.g. vaccination, agility waiting list, etc).			M
	•	Has attended at least 4 of the 8 classes of the previous session (if attended CDC agility Level 3)			M
	•	Dog doesn’t persistently disrupt class (e.g. by frequently doing “zoomies”, displaying aggression to dogs or people, lunging/barking at other dogs or handlers, urinating on equipment).			M
	•	FOR NEW CDC AGILITY MEMBERS (i.e. have not been promoted from a lower level): Has attended a CDC agility intake lecture in the last 2 years, or undertakes to attend the next one. The team has passed a formal Control test. The dog is not aggressive towards other dogs or people, and responds to their handler in recall and off-lead heeling, even with distractions. Handlers may use motivators (toys, food, praise) at any time during the test. We are looking for the dog being responsive to its handler, not “obedience “ style formal recalls and heeling. The dog has passed a formal Physical test. Has no obvious problem such as limping or stiffness. Is easily able to jump a low hurdle, and can turn from one side to the other. Is not overweight.			M

	•	Team has had exposure to all the obstacles listed below and is able to perform at least 10 to the standard described. (remembering this class is for dogs with some agility experience). The dog only has to demonstrate performance at the height specified, training should mostly be done at lower heights, especially with younger dogs.			M
			Hurdle (jump)	Can confidently perform, at least 75% of competition height, with variations (wings, solid bar, double bars, decorations - e.g. cones).	O
			Spread hurdle	At least 75% of competition height and width.	O
			Broad jump	At least 75% of competition width.	O
			Hoop (tyre)	At least 75% of competition height.	O
			Flexible tunnel	Full length. Can perform with a large radius 180 degree bend.	O
			Collapsible tunnel (chute)	Full length. Not held open.	O
			Scramble (A frame)	At least 1400mm (85%) high. Team has reliable contacts (90% of the time) without a target or is close to fading use of target.	O
			Dog walk	Full height dog walk. Team has reliable contacts (90% of the time) without a target or is close to fading use of target.	O
			Table	At 75% of competition height. Reliable wait on the table (90% of the time).	O
			Weaving poles	Can do 12 poles. May be standard, offset channel (1/2 width of dog or less), guides (up to half set) or narrow V channel. Handler on both sides.	O
			See saw	Can perform see saw with minor assistance (low table and/or drop being partially controlled). Contacts are reliable (90% of the time).	O

			Recalls (here/come)	Almost always able to recall dog (95% of the time).	M
			Lead Out (wait)	Handler can usually (80% of the time) lead out at least 5 metres ahead of dog.	O
			Contact Strategies	Able to describe and demonstrate a practical contact strategy (usually able to perform it successfully, progressing well with fading of target).	M
			Warm-ups & stretching	Handler is able to demonstrate appropriate warm-ups and stretching on their dog.	M
	•	Team has had exposure to all the following, and is able to do at least 12 at the standard described, remembering this class is for dogs with some agility experience:			M
			Independent performance of obstacles	Handler able to work most obstacles with dog on either side of handler (i.e. on left or right).	O
			Independent performance of obstacles	Dog able to perform obstacles with handler stationary and moving.	O
			Hand targeting, lead hand	Handler able to demonstrate hand targeting with dog following handler's hand (e.g. Post turn, Figure 8 exercise).	O
			Cues & Signals	Handler can demonstrate cues (voice/hand/body/movement) for each obstacle and turn.	O
			Lateral distance	Handler can get at least 4 metres lateral distance.	O
			Angled approaches	Able to perform most obstacles with approach angles of at least 30 degrees (not dog walk or see-saw).	O
			Send dog ahead	Handler can send dog ahead at least 6 metres (use of target permitted).	O
			Sequences	Able to perform a sequence of at least 5 obstacles.	O
			Luring vs Rewarding	Handler does not rely on luring.	O
			Targets/Toys	Handler can demonstrate appropriate use of targets and/or toys.	O
			Motivators (Play, Food, Toys, Praise)	Handler can demonstrate good usage of what, when, how to use. Is able to use in training to arouse dog (if needed), increase confidence, reward good performances.	O
			Call-offs	Handler can reliably (90% of the time) call the dog off an obstacle if the dog isn't too close to the obstacle.	O
			Attention	Handler can almost always (95% of the time) get dog's attention when asked to do so.	O
			Obstacle discrimination	Handler is aware of some of the issues and some ways to train this.	O
			Proof against distractions	Handler is aware of some of the issues and some ways to train this.	O

			Post Turn (pivot)/180/Pinwheel	Handler can demonstrate an easy post turn and 180 turn and can perform a tight pinwheel (i.e., without much lateral distance yet for the middle jump)	M
			Here/Come	Dog reliably comes towards handler (90% of the time). Handler can demonstrate.	M
	•	Team has had exposure to all the following, and is able to do at least 2 at the standard described, remembering this class is for dogs with some agility experience:			M
			Rear Cross	Handler is aware of the concept and can demonstrate a simple version (eg dog in tunnel). Use of target permitted.	O
			Front Cross/Lead-out Pivot	Handler is aware of the concept and can demonstrate a simple version (e.g. dog in tunnel or as lead-out pivot). Use of target permitted.	O
			Out (Increased lateral distance)	Diverging paths. Handler is aware of the concept and can demonstrate a simple version. Use of target permitted.	O
			Turn Away	Dog turns away from handler. Handler is aware of the concept and can demonstrate in an easy sequence. Use of target permitted.	O
			Left/Right	Handler is aware of the concept and can demonstrate a simple version. Use of target permitted.	O


		The CDC Agility sub-committee can choose to promote/not promote/admit any team to any level after consideration of all relevant facts.

Entry Requisites and Skills Guide - Novice Level Agility (Click here to download PDF version)

Entry Criteria					Mandatory Optional
	•	Current financial member of ACT Companion Dog club (CDC).			M
	•	Paid agility training fee (or CDC Instructor).			M
	•	Team complies with all CDC rules and policies (e.g. vaccination, agility waiting list, etc).			M
	•	Dog doesn’t persistently disrupt class (e.g. by frequently doing “zoomies”, displaying aggression to dogs or people, lunging/barking at other dogs or handlers, urinating on equipment)			M
	•	FOR NEW CDC AGILITY MEMBERS (i.e. have not been promoted from a lower level): Has attended a CDC agility intake lecture in the last 2 years, or undertakes to attend the next one. The team has passed a formal Control test. The dog is not aggressive towards other dogs or people, and responds to their handler in recall and off-lead heeling, even with distractions. Handlers may use motivators (toys, food, praise) at any time during the test. We are looking for the dog being responsive to its handler, not “obedience “ style formal recalls and heeling. The dog has passed a formal Physical test. Has no obvious problem such as limping or stiffness. Is easily able to jump a low hurdle, and can turn from one side to the other. Is not overweight.			M

	•	Team has had exposure to all the obstacles listed below and is able to perform them to the standard described. (remembering this class is for dogs preparing to trial). The dog only has to demonstrate performance at the height specified, training should mostly be done at lower heights, especially with younger dogs.			M
			Hurdle (jump)	Can confidently perform at competition height, with variations (wings, "solid", cones).	M
			Spread hurdle	Can confidently perform at competition height and width.	M
			Broad jump	Can confidently perform at competition width.	M
			Hoop (tyre)	Can confidently perform at competition height.	M
			Flexible tunnel	Can confidently perform full length tunnel with a fairly tight radius 180 degree bend or two 90 degree bends.	M
			Collapsible tunnel (chute)	Can confidently perform full length chute. Not held open.	M
			Scramble (A frame)	Can confidently perform at full competition height. Team has reliable contacts without a target (90% of the time).	M
			Dog walk	Can confidently perform full height dog walk. Team has reliable contacts without a target (90% of the time).	M
			Table	Can confidently perform at full competition height. Reliable wait on the table (90% of the time).	M
			Weaving poles	Can do 12 poles. May be standard, very narrow offset channel, minimal guides or narrow V channel. Handler on both sides.	M
			See saw	Can reliably (90% of the time) perform see saw with minimal assistance, tables, etc.	O

			Recalls (here/come)	Almost always able to recall dog (95% of the time).	M
			Lead Out (wait)	Handler can usually (80% of the time) lead out at least 6 metres ahead of dog.	M
			Contact Strategies	Team has reliable contacts (90% of the time) without a target on all contact obstacles.	M
			Luring vs Rewarding	Handler is not relying on luring at all.	M
			Warm-ups & stretching	Handler is able to demonstrate appropriate warm-ups and stretching on their dog.	M
	•	Team has had exposure to all the following, and is able to do at least 11 at the standard described, remembering this class is for dogs preparing to trial:			M
			Independent performance of obstacles	Handler able to work all obstacles with dog on either side of handler (i.e. on left or right).	O
			Independent performance of obstacles	Dog able to perform obstacles with handler stationary and moving.	O
			Hand targeting, lead hand	Handler able to demonstrate hand targeting with dog following handler's hand (e.g. Post turn, Figure 8 exercise, turn away).	O
			Cues & Signals	Handler can demonstrate cues (voice/hand/body/movement) for each obstacle and turn.	O
			Lateral distance	Handler can get at least 5 metres lateral distance.	O
			Angled approaches	Able to perform most obstacles with approach angles of at least 30 degrees (not dog walk or see saw). Can jump standard hurdles with an approach angle of at least 45 degrees.	O
			Send dog ahead	Handler can send dog ahead at least 8 metres (use of target permitted).	O
			Sequences	Able to perform a sequence of at least 8 obstacles.	O
			Targets/Toys	Handler can demonstrate appropriate use of targets and/or toys. Should be close to fading use of targets.	O
			Motivators (Play, Food, Toys, Praise)	Handler is aware of what, when, how to use. Is able to use in training to arouse dog (if needed), increase confidence, reward good performances.	O
			Call-offs	Handler can reliably (90% of the time) call the dog off an obstacle if the dog isn't too close to the obstacle.	O
			Attention	Handler can almost always (95% of the time) get dog's attention when asked to do so.	O
			Obstacle discrimination	Handler has started to train this, and has some ideas on how to progress.	O
			Proof against distractions	Handler is aware of some of the issues and some ways to train this.	O

			Post Turn (pivot)/180/Pinwheel	Handler can demonstrate a post turn, a 180 turn, and a pinwheel with up to 2 metres lateral distance to the middle jump	M
			Here/Come	Dog reliably comes towards handler (90% of the time). Handler can demonstrate.	M
			Rear Cross	Handler is aware of the concept and can demonstrate on jumps as well as while dog is in tunnel. Use of target permitted	M
			Front Cross/Lead-out Pivot	Handler is aware of the concept and can demonstrate on jumps as well as while dog is in tunnel. Use of target permitted.	M
	•	Team has had exposure to all the following, and is able to do at least 2 at the standard described, remembering this class is for dogs preparing to trial:			M
			Out (Increased lateral distance)	Diverging paths. Handler can demonstrate in an easy sequence. Use of target permitted.	O
			Turn Away	Dog turns away from handler. Handler can demonstrate in an easy sequence. Use of target permitted.	O
			Left/Right	Handler is aware of the concept and can demonstrate a simple version. Use of target permitted.	O
			Blind Cross	Handler is aware of the concept and of the advantages and disadvantages of this turn.	O
			RFP	Reverse Flow Pivot, Pull-back, Fake-out. Handler is aware of the concept and can discuss training strategies	O
			Lead out push	Handler is aware of the concept and can demonstrate a simple version.	O
			Serpentine	Handler is aware of the concept, has chosen a clear cue, and has started to train this	O
			270	Handler is aware of the concept and has started to train this	O


		The CDC Agility sub-committee can choose to promote/not promote/admit any team to any level after consideration of all relevant facts.

Skills Guide (Click here to download PDF version) These are the skills that teams should expect to acquire at Novice level and which they should have before leaving this level.					Mandatory Optional
	•	Team can demonstrate capacity to confidently perform all the obstacles listed below at competition standard The dog only has to demonstrate performance at the height specified, training can be done at lower heights, especially with younger dogs.			M
			Hurdle (jump)	Can confidently perform, at competition height with variations (windos, "solid", cones)	M
			Spread Hurdle	Can confidently perform at competition height and width	M
			Broad jump	Can confidently perform at competition width	M
			Hoop (tyre)	Can confidently perform at competition height	M
			Flexible Tunnel	Can confidently perform full length tunnel with a fairly tight radius 180 degree bend or two 90 degree bends	M
			Collapsible tunnel (chute)	Can confidently perform full length chute. Not held open	M
			Scramble (A frame)	Can confidently perform at full competition height. Team has reliable contacts without a target	M
			Dog Walk	Can confidently perform full height dog walk. Team has reliable contacts without a target	M
			Table	Can confidently perform at full competition height. Reliable wait on the table	M
			Weaving poles	Can confidently and reliably perform 12 weaving poles. Handler on both sides	M
			See saw	Can confidently and reliably perform see-saw	M

			Recalls (here/come)	Able to recall dog	M
			Lead out (wait)	Handler can usually lead out at least 6 metres ahead of dog	O
			Contact strategies	Team has reliable contacts without a target on all contact obstacles	M
			Luring versus rewarding	Handler is not relying on luring at all	M
			Warm ups and stretching	Handler is able to demonstrate appropriate warm-ups and stretching on their dog	M
	•	Team has had exposure to all the following, and is able to do at least 11 at the standard described , remembering this class is for dogs preparing to trial			M
			Independent performance of obstacles	Handler able to work most obstacles with dog on either side of handler (i.e. on left or right)	O
			Independent performance of obstacles	Dog able to perform obstacles regardless of handler position	O
			Cues and signals	Handler can demonstrate cues (voice/hand/body/movement) for each obstacle and turn	O
			Lateral distance	Handler can get at least 5 metres lateral distance	O
			Angled approaches	Able to perform most obstacles with approach angles of at least 30 degrees. Can jump standard hurdles with an approach angle of at least 45 degrees	O
			Send dog ahead	Handler can send dog ahead at least 8 metres (use of target permitted)	O
			Sequences/courses	Able to perform a sequence of at least 8 obstacles, and courses of at least 12-16 obstacles	O
			Motivators (play, food, toys, praise)	Handler can demonstrate good usage of what, when, how to use. Is able to use in training to arouse dog (if needed), increase confidence, reward good performances	O
			Call offs	Handler can reliably (90% of the time) call the dog off an obstacle if the dog isn’t too close to the obstacle	O
			Attention	Handler can almost always (95% of the time) get dog’s attention when asked to do so	O
			Obstacle discrimination	Handler and dog have ability to perform simple obstacle discrimination exercises while running a course	O
			Proof against distractions	Dog is able to perform with distractions	O
			Course walking	Handler is able to demonstrate ability to walk a course & work out the best handling strategies for their dog	O

			Post turn	Handler can demonstrate post turns while running a course.	M
			Here/come	Dog reliably comes towards handler. Handler can demonstrate while running a long sequence	M
			Rear cross	Handler can demonstrate a Rear Cross while running a long sequence	M
			Front cross	Handler can demonstrate a Front Cross while running a long sequence	M
	•	Team has had exposure to all the following, and is able to do at least 3 at the standard described, remembering this class is for dogs preparing to trial			M
			Out (increased lateral distance)	Diverging paths. Handler can demonstrate in an easy sequence.	O
			Turn away	Dog turns away from handler. Team can demonstrate while running a long sequence.	O
			Left/right	Handler is aware of the concept.	O
			Lead out push/lead out pivot	Handler can demonstrate at the start of a sequence	O
			Blind cross	Team does not need to demonstrate but handler is aware of the advantages and disadvantages of this turn	O
			RFP	Reverse Flow Pivot, Pull-back, Fake-out. Handler is aware of the concept and has started to train	O
			Serpentine	Dog and handler can demonstrate in an easy sequence	O
			Pull-through	Handler is aware of the concept, has chosen a clear cue, and has started to train this	O
			270 degree turn	Handler can demonstrate a 270 while running a sequence	O
			Push-through	Handler is aware of the concept, realises it require the same cue as a 270 (take the back of the jump), and has started to train this	O

Agility Requisites and Skills Guide - Excellent Level (Click here to download PDF version)

Entry Criteria					Mandatory Optional
	•	Entry to Excellent is ONLY by attainment of an AD or ADO title (or equivalent)			M
	•	Current financial member of ACT Companion Dog club (CDC).			M
	•	Paid agility training fee (or CDC Instructor).			M
	•	Team complies with all CDC rules and policies (e.g. vaccination, agility waiting list, etc).			M
	•	Handler understands they are required to help set up and pack up equipment. This includes setting up from a course map.			M
	•	Dog doesn't disrupt class in any manner.			M
	•	FOR MEMBERS NEW TO CDC AGILITY (i.e. have not been promoted from lower level classes): Have attended a CDC agility intake lecture, or undertakes to attend the next one. The team has passed a formal Upper Level Control test. The dog has passed a formal Physical test. Has no obvious problem such as limping or stiffness. Is easily able to jump a low hurdle and a narrow broad jump, can turn from one side to the other. Is not overweight.			M
Skills Guide These are the skills that teams should expect to acquire at Excellent level and which they should have before leaving this level.
	•	Team can demonstrate capacity to confidently perform all the obstacles listed below at competition standard.			M
			Hurdle (jump)	Can confidently perform at competition height, with variations (wings, "solid", cones).	M
			Spread hurdle	Can confidently perform at competition height and width.	M
			Broad jump	Can confidently perform at competition width.	M
			Hoop (tyre)	Can confidently perform at competition height.	M
			Flexible tunnel	Can confidently perform full length tunnel with a tight radius 180 degree bend and two 90 degree bends.	M
			Collapsible tunnel (chute)	Can confidently perform full length chute. Not held open.	M
			Scramble (A frame)	Can confidently perform at full competition height. Team has reliable contacts without a target.	M
			Dog walk	Can confidently perform full height dog walk. Team has reliable contacts without a target.	M
			Table	Can confidently perform at full competition height. Reliable wait on the table.	M
			Weaving poles	Can confidently and reliably perform 12 weaving poles.	M
			See-saw	Can confidently and reliably perform see-saw.	M

			Recalls (here/come)	Able to recall dog.	M
			Lead Out (wait)	Handler can usually lead out at least 6 metres ahead of dog.	O
			Contacts	Team generally has reliable contacts (without a target) on all contact obstacles.	O
			Warm-ups & stretching	Handler is able to demonstrate appropriate warm-ups and stretching on their dog.	M
	•	Team has knowledge of all the following, and is able to do all the mandatory items at the standard described.			M
			Independent performance of obstacles	Handler able to work all obstacles with dog on either side of handler (i.e. on left or right).	M
			Independent performance of obstacles	Dog able to perform obstacles regardless of handler position.	M
			Cues & Signals	Handler can demonstrate cues (voice/hand/body/movement) for each obstacle and turn.	M
			Lateral distance	Handler can demonstrate lateral distance (e.g. Open distance challenge).	O
			Angled approaches	Able to perform all obstacles with approach angles of at least 30 degrees. Can jump standard hurdles with an approach angle of at least 45 degrees.	O
			Send dog ahead	Handler can send dog ahead.	O
			Sequences/courses	Able to perform sequences of at least 8 obstacles, and courses of at least 16-20 obstacles.	M
			Motivators (Play, Food, Toys, Praise)	Handler is aware of what, when, how to use. Is able to use in training to arouse dog (if needed), increase confidence, reward good performances.	O
			Call-offs	Handler can usually call the dog off an obstacle.	M
			Attention	Handler can almost always get dog's attention when asked to do so.	M
			Obstacle discrimination	Handler and dog have ability to perform less complex obstacle discrimination exercises while running a course.	M
			Proof against distractions	Dog is able to perform with distractions.	M
			Serpentine	Team can demonstrate in a long sequence	M
			Pull through	Team can demonstrate in a simple sequence	M
			Push through	Team can demonstrate in a simple sequence	M
			270 Degree turn	Team can demonstrate in a simple sequence	M
			Course walking	Handler is able to demonstrate ability to walk a course and work out the best handling strategies for their dog.	M
			Course Set up	Handler is able to demonstrate ability to set up a basic course or set including correct distances between obstacles.	O

			Post Turn (pivot)	Team can demonstrate post turns while running a course or long sequence.	M
			Here/Come	Dog reliably comes towards handler. Handler can demonstrate while running a course or long sequence.	M
			Rear Cross	Team can demonstrate a Rear Cross while running a course or long sequence.	M
			Front Cross	Team can demonstrate a Front Cross while running a course or long sequence.	M
			Out (Increased lateral distance)	Diverging paths. Team can demonstrate while running a course or long sequence.	O
			Turn Away	Dog turns away from handler. Team can demonstrate while running a course or long sequence.	O
			Left/Right	Handler is aware of the concept.	O
			Lead out push/Lead out Pivot	Handler can demonstrate at the start of a course or sequence	O
			Blind Cross	Team does not need to demonstrate but handler is aware of the advantages and disadvantages of this turn.	O
			RFP	Reverse Flow Pivot, Pull-back, Fake-out. Team can demonstrate while running a course or long sequence.	M

Agility Requisites and Skills Guide - Masters Level (Click here to download PDF version)

Entry Criteria					Mandatory Optional
	•	Entry to Masters is ONLY by attainment of an ADX or ADO title (or equivalent)			M
	•	Current financial member of ACT Companion Dog club (CDC).			M
	•	Paid agility training fee (or CDC Instructor).			M
	•	Team complies with all CDC rules and policies (e.g. vaccination, agility waiting list, etc).			M
	•	Handler understands that there is no formal instruction given in Masters. They are also required to help set up. This includes setting up from a course map			M
	•	Dog doesn't disrupt class in any manner.			M
	•	FOR MEMBERS NEW TO CDC AGILITY (i.e. have not been promoted from lower level classes): Has attended a CDC agility intake lecture, or undertakes to attend the next one. The team has passed a formal Upper Level Control test. The dog has passed a formal Physical test. Has no obvious problem such as limping or stiffness. Is easily able to jump a low hurdle and a narrow broad jump, can turn from one side to the other. Is not overweight.			M
Skills Guide These are the skills that teams should expect to acquire at Masters level and which they should have before considering this level achieved.
	•	Team can demonstrate capacity to confidently perform all the obstacles listed below at competition standard.			M
			Hurdle (jump)	Can confidently perform at competition height, with variations (wings, "solid", cones).	M
			Spread hurdle	Can confidently perform at competition height and width.	M
			Broad jump	Can confidently perform at competition width.	M
			Hoop (tyre)	Can confidently perform at competition height.	M
			Flexible tunnel	Can confidently perform full length tunnel of any shape	M
			Collapsible tunnel (chute)	Can confidently perform full length chute. Not held open.	M
			Scramble (A frame)	Can confidently perform at full competition height. Team has reliable contacts without a target.	M
			Dog walk	Can confidently perform full height dog walk. Team has reliable contacts without a target.	M
			Table	Can confidently perform at full competition height. Reliable wait on the table.	M
			Weaving poles	Can confidently and reliably perform 12 weaving poles.	M
			See-saw	Can confidently and reliably perform see-saw.	M

			Recalls (here/come)	Able to recall dog.	M
			Lead Out (wait)	Handler can usually lead out at least 6 metres ahead of dog.	O
			Contacts	Team generally has reliable contacts (without a target) on all contact obstacles.	M
			Warm-ups & stretching	Handler is able to demonstrate appropriate warm-ups and stretching on their dog.	M
	•	Team has knowledge of all the following, and is able to do all the mandatory items at the standard described.			M
			Independent performance of obstacles	Handler able to work all obstacles with dog on either side of handler (i.e. on left or right).	M
			Independent performance of obstacles	Dog able to perform obstacles regardless of handler position.	M
			Cues & Signals	Handler can demonstrate cues (voice/hand/body/movement) for each obstacle and turn.	M
			Lateral distance	Handler can demonstrate lateral distance (e.g. Open distance challenge).	M
			Angled approaches	Able to perform all obstacles with any safe approach angles.	M
			Send dog ahead	Handler can send dog ahead.	M
			Sequences/courses	Able to perform sequences and courses of any length	M
			Motivators (Play, Food, Toys, Praise)	Handler is aware of what, when, how to use. Is able to use in training to arouse dog (if needed), increase confidence, reward good performances.	M
			Call-offs	Handler can usually call the dog off an obstacle.	M
			Attention	Handler can almost always get dog's attention when asked to do so.	M
			Obstacle discrimination	Handler and dog have ability to perform complex obstacle discrimination exercises while running a course.	M
			Proof against distractions	Dog is able to perform with distractions.	M
			Serpentine	Able to perform the serpentine while running a course or long sequence.	M
			Pull through	Able to perform the Pull through while running a course or long sequence.	M
			Push through	Able to perform the Push through while running a course or long sequence.	M
			270 Degree turn	Able to perform the 270 degree turn while running a course or long sequence.	M
			Course walking	Handler is able to demonstrate ability to walk a course & work out the best handling strategies for their dog.	M
			Course Set up	Handler is able to demonstrate ability to set up a course or set including correct distances between obstacles.	M

			Post Turn (pivot)	Team can demonstrate post turns while running a course or long sequence.	M
			Here/Come	Dog reliably comes towards handler. Handler can demonstrate while running a course or long sequence.	M
			Rear Cross	Team can demonstrate a Rear Cross while running a course or long sequence.	M
			Front Cross	Team can demonstrate a Front Cross while running a course or long sequence.	M
			Out (Increased lateral distance)	Diverging paths. Team can demonstrate while running a course or long sequence.	O
			Turn Away	Dog turns away from handler. Team can demonstrate while running a course or long sequence.	O
			Left/Right	Handler is aware of the concept and can demonstrate if trained.	O
			Lead out push/Lead-out Pivot	Handler can demonstrate at the start of a course or sequence	O
			Blind Cross	Team does not need to demonstrate but handler is aware of the advantages and disadvantages of this turn.	O
			RFP	Reverse Flow Pivot, Pull-back, Fake-out. Team can demonstrate while running a course or long sequence.	M

Last Updated: 5 January, 2012

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A.C.T. Companion Dog Club Inc.
Canberra, ACT, Australia