ACT Companion Dog Club

Welcome to Agility at CDC

Introduction

Agility is a timed sport where a dog and handler team race around an obstacle course. The aim is for the team to complete the obstacle course as quickly as possible with no mistakes. It is a fast and visually exciting form of competition that sees dogs of all breeds and sizes compete on equal terms. While named for its most essential skill "agility", the sport also requires a high degree of handling and control to achieve consistent results.

CDC runs agility events in accordance with the Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC) Rules for the conduct of agility trials. The events include agility, jumping and the games classes of gamblers, snooker and strategic pairs. The order of the obstacles in the courses is never the same. The obstacles include a variety of height and distance jumps, hoops, tunnels, elevated platforms and ramps, and a set of 12 vertical poles for the dog to ‘weave’ or slalom between. There are four competitive levels and five height categories in each level. The jumping obstacles are set at different heights for different heights of dogs. For example a Maltese would jump 200mm, Miniature Poodles jump 300mm, Basenjis jump 400mm, Border Collies jump 500mm and German Shepherds jump 600mm.

Each course has a set time that is determined by dividing the length of the course by a chosen speed. It is set by the judge and based on the level of competition. Dogs consistently completing the course requirements earn Agility titles.

Agility training at CDC

Agility classes at CDC train dogs (and handlers!) for competition in every agility event. The classes have entrance requirements that are separate to the obedience classes. They involve demonstrating a basic level of control with your dog off lead and a basic level of fitness in the dog. Dogs must be at least 14 months of age to start in classes - to avoid possible structural damage through repeated jumping. If you want to train in agility classes you must put your details on the waiting list which is held in the office.

The sport of Agility is particularly suited to working breeds, energetic bouncy dogs, or those that are keen to please their handlers. At CDC we have a wide range of breeds of all sizes participating in agility activities.

Why not come along and see if it is the activity for you!