GROUP DOG AGILITY CLASSES
What is Basic Agility Class
▶ Agility is one of the most enjoyable activities you can participate in with your dog.
▶ It is easy to do, and almost every dog can learn.
▶ Partners BASIC AGILITY program is a FUN RELAXED training program (see"Competition" below)
▶ It is open to ALL breeds, ALL sizes of dogs, and ALL ages (minimum 6 months)
▶ Basic Agility class teaches you and your dog the basics of manners, respect and socialization.
▶ Basic Agility also teaches your dog the various obstacles such as jumps and tunnels.
▶ You will learn how to teach your dog to walk and run at your side.
▶ You will learn to teach your dog run an agility course
▶ Dogs in Basic Agility will run classes ON-LEASH
▶ You will learn the basics of pet ownership.
▶ You will learn how to recognize and address basic problems.
▶ You will learn how to handle your dog around other dogs.
▶ You will learn how to understand your dogs behavior.
How do Group Classes work
▶ You attend class with your dog.
▶ You will be taught by an instructor, and normally at least one assistant-instructor.
▶ Classes are held at our training facility, and are once per week. (Exceptions sometimes apply)
▶ Handlers (you) are required to train their own dogs, as this is a group class
▶ Instructors and assistants are not able to work individually or privately with students during class
▶ If you need to work privately with your instructor, you are welcome to schedule a session with them
Training Curriculum
▶ We will provide you with a training curriculum of your course
▶ This will cover Homework; Drills of the Week, Tips on Training and other information
▶ It will also include some Free Dog Training Tips
▶ Each week you will receive the next weeks schedule
Obstacles covered in Basic Dog Agility group class
▶ Jumps
▶ Tunnels
▶ A-frame
▶ Hoop
▶ Collapsible tunnel
▶ Dog Walk
▶ Weave poles
▶ Teeter
Class Sizes
▶ Most classes have eight to ten students.
▶ Some of the more advanced classes may have up to 12 students
▶ There will generally be additional assistant instructors to help out.
Prerequisites
▶ Your dog MUST be under basic control
▶ No aggressive dogs are permitted in agility classes
▶ Your dog must be able to walk on a leash
(If you have behavioral issues, such as aggression, leash problems, etc, you can work privately with a trainer)
Competitive Dog Agility Training
▶ A number of our instructors compete in serious competition agility
▶ However, our BASIC AGILITY program is a fun based, social agility program - it is NOT competitive!
▶ You will still learn how to control and run your dog for agility; it will just be more relaxed.
▶ After you complete Basic Agility (Level 1) you attend Level 2 Agility, which is more advanced, but still a "fun" class.
▶ Our Level 3 Course "NOVICE AGILITY" is for people who want to be more serious
▶ And if you want to compete in Agility Trials, then join our Level 4 classes - call for details
Basic Dog Agility Group Class does NOT
▶ Basic Agility Group Class does not address aggression issues
▶ Basic Agility does not address serious behavioral issues
▶ Your instructor may briefly tell you about other types of classes, but:
▶ Basic Agility does not cover personal protection or snake proofing
▶ Basic Agility does not include personal individual attention. It is a group class, not private lessons.
▶ If you need personal attention, please make an appointment to work with your instructor.
What if my dog doesn't get along with other dogs.
▶ One of the requirements for all Group Classes is that your dog MUST get along with other dogs.
▶ If you are having dog aggression issues, then sign up for Resident Camp or a Private Lesson
▶ It will also allow us to properly evaluate and treat your issue.
▶ If your dog behaves aggressively towards other dogs in Group Class, you may be asked to leave.
▶ We would prefer this did not happen, so please talk to us if you have any questions.
Equipment
▶ You will only need a leash and collar to start.
▶ Please don't purchase anything additional until you have chatted with us.
▶ We will gladly guide you in what you need to train.
What do I need to bring to class
▶ For your first class, bring a leash and a collar.
▶ Your instructor discuss various options for equipment.
▶ We also suggest a dog water container, treats and a chair for spectators.
Can children train (or attend) classes
▶ We encourage kids to participate in training of their dogs
▶ Most of the instructors have been training since childhood, so this is important to us.
▶ We do have some important limitations:
▶ We define children to be anyone under 18 years of age
▶ Children participating in class should to be at least 8 years of age (Instructors can approve younger kids)
▶ Children need to be behaved, cooperative, willing and happy to be in class - no pressure from parents!
▶ Parents MUST be PRESENT at all times during class
▶ Parents can NOT drop their kids off and disappear (sorry) If you do, your child will not be allowed in class
▶ Finally, parents MUST READ this article on prey drive
Duration of Course
▶ Group Dog Agility Classes are eight (8) week course, of one lesson per week
▶ Classes are generally 55 minutes in duration
What if I miss a class
▶ We will make every effort to fit you into another class of there is one available.
▶ Missing one class is normally not a problem, and you should be able to catch up.
What does Agility Cost
Weather Cancellation (WEATHER LINE 480 595 6700 Option 5)
▶ If the weather is poor, we will cancel class.
▶ While we try and contact students, sometimes this is not practical.
▶ Please call the school ONE HOUR BEFORE CLASS. Our number is 480 595 6700, and select Option 5 (weather line)
▶ There will be a message that will state: (a) CLASSES ARE GOING AHEAD or (b) CLASSES ARE CANCELLED
▶ We make a final decision at least one hour before class on the weather.
▶ Remember we may cancel class for heat warnings, freeze warnings or for excessive rain.