Also consider any limited ability your dog has. If your dog has back problems, for example, they may be able to easily get up and down an A-frame, but may not be able to complete a weave pole exercise. Do not try to force a dog beyond its ability. Some dogs may not be able to do certain obstacles, and all dogs will have to train up from easier to more challenging courses.
It is generally easier and safer for your pet to purchase a ready-built contact obstacles, but you can make your own A-frame from wood or aluminum. Instructions can be found online. [3] X Research source For see-saw obstacles, you may buy a purpose-built agility see-saw or you can use one meant for toddlers or small children.
According to USDAA regulations, tire jumps must have an interior opening of 20 inches (50. 8 cm), and the tire itself must have a 4 inch (10. 16 cm) wall. Tire jumps are generally purchased whole from agility equipment retailers, as while you can build one yourself, professionally manufactured jumps tend to be more secure and less likely to hurt your pet if they miss the jump. [4] X Research source Setting up tire jumps is generally a simple process that at most involves you connecting the tire to the suspending agents, but more often just involves placing the frame.
Weave poles should be sturdy enough that they can withstand your dog running in between them, but not so sturdy that they won’t bend or fall if your dog does not weave perfectly. Weave poles should not be driven far into the ground, as this cause them to become more rigid and subsequently poses an increased risk of injury for your dog. You can make your own weave poles by setting one inch (2. 5 cm) diameter PVC pipe in along a pipe base. Use tee pipe connectors to join the upright poles to the base. [6] X Research source You can also purchase safe and sturdy weave poles from a manufacturer.
If you are training for competition, your dog will need to know how to navigate a pipe tunnel, which is usually straight, and a collapsible tunnel, which may have a curve. Play tunnels can be used to train for both types of tunnel obstacles. Simply reconfigure the tunnel to be straight or to have a bend.
Try not to put like obstacles next to one another. For example, do not put a see-saw after an A-frame. Create variation to help your pet get the most from the course.
You can use a variety of objects to create obstacles for your dog to work with, including broomsticks, PVC pipes, ramps, and more. [10] X Expert Source Elisabeth WeissProfessional Dog Trainer Expert Interview. 3 September 2020. If you do not have much experience building or fixing things, a dog agility course might not be the best place to start. Lack of experience may lead to unsafe features in your course that could cause harm to your dog. If you are considering purchasing equipment, look for agility training kits that allow you to bundle obstacles. The right package could help save money when compared to buying pieces individually. If you choose to build your own obstacles, look up instructions for specific obstacles meant to fit your dog’s size. Follow their instructions, measurements, and plans closely.
Be sure that the space is mostly level. The obstacles associated with an agility course can be disorienting and potentially harmful if on uneven surfaces.
Make sure bars like those on hurdles can easily be knocked off so that your dog does not run into a hard object while training. Check to make sure that your dog can comfortably fit through any tunnels before guiding them into one.
If your dog seems curious about the equipment, help them explore obstacles such as tunnels and see-saws. Gently guide your dog through with your hands or with verbal encouragement.
Use vocal commands, treats, and gentle touch to help guide your dog through the course the first time. Be sure to help your dog stabilize on obstacles such as the see-saw. Use your hands to help them keep from coming down too fast or sliding off the obstacle.
Start with more obvious obstacles such as using cones for weave poles until your dog is ready to handle the more narrow poles. Take your dog to agility training classes or training groups to help both you and your pet get the most from your new hobby.
