Agility training for your puppy can commence right away. Introducing your young canine to a range of obstacles will not only boost their confidence but also make their future agility training sessions more enjoyable.
Remember, if you can manage your puppy's environment, you can effectively teach and train the behaviors you desire. If left to their own devices, even in a fenced yard, puppies will learn and develop behaviors that we may later want or need to eliminate.
One of the initial behaviors we teach our pups is "Box" or "Table". This behavior is a precursor to the agility pause table. Entice your pup onto a low pause table and reward them with a treat. You can name the pause table anything you like. If I were to start over, I would name the pause table "Box" instead of "Table" to avoid confusion with other "T" words on the agility course, such as tunnel, tire, and teeter.
Teach your pup to "Box", which means to climb onto a variety of obstacles. In our training field, we use "Box" for upside-down kennel tops, the bottoms of barrels turned upside down, bird crates, and more. Be inventive with your pup, encouraging them to climb onto all kinds of surfaces, exposing them to different shapes, sizes, and textures. Once your pup is comfortable getting up on a "Box", you can start asking them to sit on the box as well.
Buja boards, typically made from plywood and measuring 36" x 36", can be used for motion training. The underside of the board has a 2x4 box where a partially deflated ball is placed, allowing the Buja board to rock gently. Initially, reward your pup for getting one paw on the board, then reward for two feet and eventually all four. The speed at which your pup becomes comfortable on the Buja Board will depend on their temperament.
Perch training can also be initiated with young pups. The Perch is generally a 1'x1' wood surface that is raised by 2"x4"'s underneath, making it about four inches in height. The Perch helps teach pups rear-end awareness. Again, reward your pup for getting one front paw on the perch and then the other. Perch training is mostly used with just the front paws on the Perch.
These are just a few behaviors you can teach your young pup. Exposure to a variety of surfaces and heights will help your pup build confidence in their future agility training. For more information on puppy training, check out American Kennel Club's guide or The Spruce Pets' tips.
The Spectrum of Dog Agility Training Equipment: A Comprehensive Guide
Dog agility is a dynamic and engaging sport that showcases the incredible bond between a dog and its handler. It's a spectacle of coordination, speed, and precision, where dogs of various breeds navigate through a complex obstacle course. The ease or difficulty of training for each piece of equipment can vary greatly, and understanding this can help set realistic goals for both you and your furry companion.
Transform Your Backyard into a Dog Agility Playground
Transform your backyard into a thrilling agility playground for your furry friend! Whether you're aiming for casual fun or serious competition prep, a variety of dog agility equipment is available to cater to your needs. This engaging activity not only entertains but also enhances your dog's physical and mental well-being.
Indoor Agility Training: A Rainy Day Adventure with Your Dog
Transform a dreary day into an exciting indoor agility training session with your dog. Utilize common household items to create an engaging environment that challenges and entertains your furry friend. Perfecting commands like sit/stay and down/stay becomes a fun activity, even when the weather outside is less than ideal.
