How To Start Training A Dog For Agility

Dog Agility Confidence - Three Words That Go Together

Not everyone wants their dog to be a world class show dog or jumper. But everyone wants a confident dog that's not too timid. So remember these three words as you ask how to start training a dog for agility; dog agility confidence.

That's right. By giving your dog even the most basic agility training, even the most timid pet will become more confident. The three words go together very well.

If you have a shy dog, putting him in an agility class may not work. You'll need to begin this training yourself where your pet is most comfortable and safe, and that's in his home. The answer to the question how to start training a dog for agility is simple. Start small, and work your way up. No need to go out and buy a multitude of agility equipment to start. Start with dog agility  books or DVD's. Most will teach everything from the beginner to more advanced techniques.

You will also probably want a little equipment, but what you get really depends on how much space you have and where you will do your training. Will you be outside in a large yard that can hold a lot of obstacles or is your yard smaller? Perhaps you'll be training in a basement or garage. These are things you need to consider before spending a dime.

The important thing here is to make sure whatever you get is sturdy. If a timid pet falls off unsafe equipment, how much harder will it be to get him to continue the training? A good item to start with is a  pause table that is 12 inches high, and can be adjusted for use as your dog gets better. Set it up someplace your pet is familiar with. You may even want to leave it there a few days before even starting to allow him to become used to it. This is especially true if your pet is insecure with new things. Let him check it out and smell it for a while. We're going to take this very slow.

When you are ready to get started, place a treat or a favorite toy on the table. You may need to encourage him to get up there so be patient. There's a chance that a timid pet may quickly loose interest in whatever is on the table. If this is the case, sit on the table yourself and hold him with you. He may want to back away, but you should continue to coax him to you. Do not reward him until he comes, to you. Do not give him the treat or toy when he backing away.

Remember always use specific word when you want him to get on the table. It can be "table" or something else. The word doesn't matter, just make sure you are consistent and use the same word every time. When you back away from the table use the "stay" command. Then use the "come" command when you want him to get off and come to you. We can't stress enough the fact that you should take this slowly. You can stretch him a little, but push him too hard and he will shut down and lose interest.

When he is successful on the pause table you can graduate to a contact trainer. The best of these are the 3-piece contact trainers. They will have a pause table, an A-frame side, and a mini dog walk side. Now that he's mastered getting on the pause table you can coax him down one of the two sides. Go slow and don't overwhelm him. As he continues to succeed his confidence will continue to increase. And it won't be long before your timid, shy pet is a confident dog.

Remember the three words, dog agility confidence.