Dog agility is a competition sport that involves a dog running a timed course of obstacles consisting of various jumps, ramps and tunnels (usually in numbered order) quickly but accurately. The handler directs the dog with voice, arm and body movements all involving close and/or distance work. The handler is not allowed to touch the dog or obstacles nor use food/toys (these, however, can be used as training tools) as incentives.
Trials (competitions) are usually held over one day with Agility events (contacts, tunnels and jumps) and Jumping events( tunnels and jumps). Games rings may be held as well.
Novice, Excellent, Masters levels are based on the dogs' abilities not the handlers'.
There are also Open events.
Agility is a handling skill that requires quick strategic thinking, accuracy and often (but not always) athleticism. It requires teamwork between dog and handler that is the result of extensive training.
The vast majority of dog breeds have no difficulty negotiating an agility course.
However, with some breeds, eg the giant breeds which are prone to joint problems, it may be inadvisable to have them jump. Also, they may find the tunnels, the size of which cannot be altered, difficult to negotiate.
Regardless of breed, it is best to consult your vet about your dog's suitability to being an agility dog.
Our club accepts dogs from 6 months of age into the Foundation class.
For dogs' wellbeing and physical maturation jumping is not permitted in club training until the age of 15 months.
Please note, for ANKC competitions, a dog must be at least 18 months of age to compete.
Our club accepts handlers from 13 years of age. If you are under 13 years of age we require that you be supervised by an adult.
We are located at WLJ Crofts Reserve, Blackshaws Rd, Altona Nth.
Melways Ref 40 H12.
If turning left from Grieve Pde into Blackshaw's Rd, the entry to the reserve is on the left, just after MTU Detroit Deisel.
We train Friday evenings under lights.
Remember, all class participants are expected to assist with setup and packup of equpiment, otherwise you will not be able to train with your dog/s.
ADCV can only take limited numbers of new members to go into Foundation (12 week course) so there is usually a waiting list.
There are two intakes a year for dogs and owners that are new to agility.
These are in March and August. Classes through to the end of 2017 are fully booked. Booking for 2018 will open in mid-2017.
You can contact the Membership Secretary via the Contact Form to reserve a place. There is a $10 refundable fee.
The Foundation course cost is $70, less the $10 booking fee.
After completing the Foundation Course you are eligible for full membership which is $50 per year .
Experienced handlers can join the club at any time, subject to an assessment.
Probably not but we would need to assess you and your dog in order to place you in the class that most suits your abilities.
The membership year is from the 1st July to 30th June.
The cost is an initial joining fee of $40 if you don't do the Foundation course and a $50 annual fee.
