Be Prepared for Your First Dog Agility Trial

Before You Leave Home

Before you enter your dog in an agility trial or fun match, you really should go see one on your own. By doing this, you will see how the event is run and what you need to do as an exhibitor. If this is your first time, you'll want to check out the Novice ring. Watch the dogs competing… does your dog have as much reliability during training as these dogs are exhibiting? If not, you may want to spend more time training before you enter him in a trial. Most of these obedience trials are held outdoors, and many do not have areas with fences. If your dog gets distracted and doesn't respond to the "Come" command, there may be problems. It is better off all the way around if you are sure of your dog's obedience.

Contact the host organization beforehand for a copy of the official rules and regulations. Go through them carefully to make sure you are in compliance with all of them. It would be very disappointing to enter your first trial only be disqualified due to a technicality with a rule.

Finding Agility Trials and Matches

The easiest method to find a fun match or agility trial is to talk with people in your area who are involved in this fun activity. Maybe you know a trainer from classes you took your dog to, or maybe there is an obedience club in town that knows about agility trials. These resources will provide you with all you need to know. Check their websites too… you may find announcements, a calendar or other information you need there.

Prepare Yourself

If you've never been to a trial or other similar event, you need to know that they can last anywhere from eight to twelve hours. If you bring your dog to compete, the amount of time his individual competition will take is only about five minutes. It is best to bring their crate so they have a familiar comfortable spot to relax. You may also want to bring a canopy tent or other form of sun protection and a folding chair so you can sit.

Don't leave home without enough water for you and your dog. Dog treats are also a good idea.

At the Event

If you can, see if you are able to volunteer at the event as a pole setter. You'll learn a lot of the tips and tricks of agility trials, and you'll get to see the obstacles and courses up close. There will be a lot of information to learn, but don't forget your dog. Make some time for you and your dog to relax, play a game and maybe meet some of the other dogs.

Record Keeping

Keep a journal of all the agility runs you and your dog perform. Include your total points, any faults, and the times for the course. Make sure you keep track of whether it was a qualifying ("Q") run. If possible, see if you can get a copy of the course map to keep. This will help you evaluate problem areas and determine what you and your dog need to work on.