Danny and I doing some reward and toy based work with Craig Oglivie. Danny has amazing toy drive and loves to play but not all dogs do. It's important to reward your dog for their efforts but its vital to reward them with what they love. I'll help you with that when you start agility here. Please be aware that your dog needs to have a certain level of obedience before they can join groups. If you're thinking of starting agility because you think your dog is 'naughty' or needs something to do because they're full of energy, you're probably right, but basic obedience classes would be very helpful first. I recommend Parkside, The Canine Hub, Delders Dogs and Prohound Dog Training, all local to here. Further infromation can be found in the weblinks tab. You won't enjoy your agility training if your dog doesn't know the basics. Wherever you do go, make sure that they are very positive with your dog, using lots of rewards to show your dog the correct behaviours, dogs learn faster this way! They enjoy training more and so will you!   Foundation training: all about introducing working with you, having fun, body movement, balance, chase, working on different surfaces, jump skills and much, much more...

Who can take part in Agility? Just about anyone, as long as you are both fit and healthy. There is some jogging involved for handlers so dont look surprised! Classes are relaxed, friendly and flexible.   What should I wear?   Trail and Fell running shoes are popular amongst agility enthusiasts - have a look in Go Outdoors! A waterproof coat is useful as are pockets for treats and poo bags.   What should I bring for my dog?   For safety your dog should wear a simple collar, not a choker chain. You will need to bring a favourite toy - ball or rope tuggy and extra nice treats, I suggest very small cubes of cheese, cocktail sausages or other tasty treats that your dog will really want (not their usual dog biscuits) Please bring a normal lead rather than a retractable one.   How old does my dog need to be?   Your dog should be about 7-8 months old, minimum, to join foundation classes. All work will be on the flat, no jumping, for some months until the dog is around a year old and only then if you would like to do agility.   What time should I arrive?   Please arrive 5-10 minutes before your lesson begins so that you are ready to start promptly.   What does my dog need to be able to do?   Your dog needs to behave around other dogs as you are responsible for their behaviour. They really need to come back to you when called and it helps if they focus on you and are not too distracted by other dogs. It is also really beneficial if they will sit / stand and wait as you step away although we can work on that within lessons.   Please remember:   Dogs must remain on the lead until it is their turn to train.   To pick up any poo and put it in the bin provided.   Please, no harsh handling of any description is tolerated, including shouting, dragging or pulling your dog around. Repeatedly saying NO! to your dog doesn't make training a fun experience and they will be unlikely to respond, please be positive.

Libby as a puppy, 7 weeks old, the day I picked her up (2007-2020)