Agility Dog Training - Keeping Your Animal Fit And Healthy

By: Adrian Fletcher

When was the last time you ran an obstacle course. Unless you are in the army, it might have been when you were a kid. Do you remember how difficult it was ? Moreover, if you only stared at the course without actually attempting it then you are aware of how difficult it might have appeared.

So if we acknowledge the difficulty of such a course why do we expect our dogs to be able to do such a course. After all, they are a test of endurance, agility and conditioning. Are dogs innately conditioned to run through tunnels, over bridges and jump fences ? No, they have to be trained.

Agility dog training programs exist to help dogs cope with the physical aspects of running a dog obstacle course. They help to get a dog fitter and stronger. They also teach the dog about obeying commands as in most cases the dog that runs a course is under the control of their owner. This is good for the obedience behavior of the dog and builds on the relationship that it has with the owner. Dog agility training programs also teach a dog to think for itself and to handle unpredictable situations. For instance, it is not obvious to a dog that it has to run through a tunnel or do a slalom through some poles. This has to be taught to the dog which it will then have to apply to different obstacle courses and situations.

Indeed, it is a hard task to train dogs in these skills. It will take a good few days training with a skilled dog agility trainer before your dog will be capable of running a course. After this initial training you, as the owner, will be in control of the training. Ultimately it is about creating a bond between you and your animal. Once this is set it will be up to you to keep your pet fit and current with the obstacle courses.

And the cutting edge of all this training is to involve your pet in an official competition. I am sure you have seen these sorts of things on TV at dog shows like Crufts and the like. There is a perception that these kinds on events are cruel to the animal but most dogs can't wait to do a course. In fact, I'd go as far as to say that these events are the highlight of any show along with the relay events. If you have seen such a competition you will notice just how much the dogs enjoy running through the courses as they wag their tails furiously and bark excitedly. Possibly the dog gets excited by the noise of the crowd but it makes for great viewing to see the excited dogs.

Of course, in order to be successful in running such an obstacle course it will need solid agility dog training so that it has the skills and remains safe. This is an aspect of agility dog training that most people fail to consider. The aim of agility dog training is not just the development of the dog's all round skills and fitness, but also to make sure that the dog does not hurt himself.

And of course the best motivation to make your pooch run through tunnels or slalom poles is that it will keep you pet busy and fit which makes him healthier and better adjusted to living in a family. It's just as enjoyable for you too.

Article Source: http://www.share.onlypunjab.com

Find great training tips, including German Shepherd dog training tips and effective dog potty training

Please Rate this Article

Not yet Rated