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Simply reconfigure the tunnel to be straight or to have a bend. Weave poles are a set of narrow plastic poles set closely together so that your dog can quickly weave their body between each pole. Each course should have five to twelve poles with approximately two feet (0.6 meters) between each pole.
Of course, you can always be creative and design unique obstacles for your pup. Just be sure to keep your dog’s safety in mind when doing so. The exact dimensions and design details of these obstacles vary from one organizational body to the next, and many allow these sizes to be adjusted to suit the size of your dog.
Introducing the Course to Your Dog
For see-saw obstacles, you may buy a purpose-built agility see-saw or you can use one meant for toddlers or small children. 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. Set up anywhere with four portable, adjustable jumps with heights ranging from 4-to-24 inches.
The jumps, made of furniture-grade PVC, come with a carrying bag and vinyl tape for marking the jumps. This shape-shifting tunnel is regulation-size, 18-feet long, with a 24-inch openings. It’s durable, lightweight, and portable, and comes with stakes and a carrying case. Coax your dog over each hurdle with a treat, and gradually move the hurdles closer as she learns to jump over them in sequence. Create a dog walk by balancing a 2″ by 12″ board on sawhorses. Start with the board on the ground until your pup can walk across.
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To get you started, we’ll share nine great DIY agility course obstacles. Use vocal commands, treats, and gentle touch to help guide your dog through the course the first time. 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. Play tunnels can be used to train for both types of tunnel obstacles.
To build a dog agility course, start by finding a level, wide-open space for your course. Then, remove any obstructions that could hurt your dog, like sticks or rocks. Next, lay down a contact obstacle, such as an A-frame or seesaw, which you can buy or make yourself. You can also set up a tire jump suspended from a wooden frame and a children’s play tunnel.
Weaving Obstacles
I've used broomsticks, plumbing, squeegees, ramps, and even plungers. Just be sure to familiarize the dog with the equipment and show them what you want them to do. Create variation to help your pet get the most from the course.
A competition-ready dog is a dog that is comfortable with all of the obstacles and one that obeys your signals. Once you have built up that comfort level, work on speed and accuracy using many different course configurations. It is also important that you provide them with enough room to clear each obstacle safely.
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There are a few breeds prone to breathing issues that might not be a good match for agility and some dogs just don’t have the temperament for it. But if you have a dog with good energy and no serious health issues, agility can be a great form of exercise. Dog agility training is a great way to bond with your pup and have some fun while teaching him some fantastic tricks. Practice for timed agility events or just play together with a backyard dog agility course you create yourself.
Socializing an older dog is usually more challenging than socializing a puppy. Learn how to overcome the challenges to safely socialize an adult dog.
A series of vertical poles through which your dog must weave like a slalom skier. 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. Agility is just plain fun and can be more interesting than daily walks and games of tug or fetch . Agility helps alleviate boredom, and bored dogs can be destructive and/or anxious.
Can copy the models in the picture on page 1 of building instructions book "A," embellish them, or invent their own designs. Herding dogs often exhibit these traits, and they’re typically among the most commonly seen breeds in agility contests. Some sporting dogs also excel in the event, but dogs who were bred to work alone, such as terriers and livestock-guarding breeds, are usually not as well-suited for the activity .
