Agility Training for Fun and Fitness

You've probably watched competitive agility trials in which the handler moves her fingers just so and her dog completes an obstacle course at top speed. In our professional dog training experience, we've seen plenty of serious handlers work with their dogs to accomplish record times. But we've also enjoyed another type of agility training, meant to combine fun and fitness for your dog.

Formal agility trials are a wonderful sport, one that many people enjoy with their animals. But through pet dog and puppy obedience classes, Sarasota, FL, dog owners have let us know not everyone enjoys that level of competition. They would, however, enjoy running their dogs through their paces in order to share a fun, healthy activity. Does that sound like something you and your four-legged friend might enjoy? There are two important reasons an activity like non-competitive agility classes is valuable:

1. It's possible to combine positive dog training techniques with agility course training and improve your dog's overall behavior and,

2. It's fun! Spending a few afternoons running around an agility course, watching your dog leap, climb and crawl through obstacles is good for you and your dog.

So, what should you and your dog look for in a non-competitive agility class? During our years of dog training, Florida dog lovers have mentioned several promising signs:

* A fun, positive experience -- no shouting, punishment or grouchiness allowed!
* An environment in which owners and dogs grow closer while sharing an outdoor activity.
* Opportunities to fine-tune your dog's obedience by positive dog training methods.

When you locate a professional dog training school that offers this kind of agility class, ask if you can observe a session. We know in other forms of pet dog training, Sarasota, FL, dog owners sometimes need reassurance a class is right for their pets.

A fun agility class may be just what you need to sneak in a little more exercise into your pet's life. Why take the risk that lack of exercise will make your pet unhealthy, when playful physical activities such as this can be so beneficial? Once you and your pet have completed this first foray into fun, you may even decide to turn your own yard into a permanent agility course!