Dog agility is a sport that has exploded in popularity since the late 1970s. It is an interesting and competitive sport in which dogs maneuver a number of man-made obstacles in an effort to achieve an accurate and timely run. The dogs work with a companion during these trials, often an adult handler or an agility trainer; though junior handlers are also allowed to compete with their canines. This event has seen a drastic growth of interest throughout the years and remains a very popular sporting event in today's canine world.
Dog agility was first introduced to the public by John Varley in 1978. The initial agility event took place at the Crufts dog show, though at that time, it was considered just a form of entertainment, rather than an actual competition for agility dogs; this showing presented by both Varley and well- known trainer Peter Meanwell. The dog agility course presented weave poles, a tunnel, and other dog agility equipment known to today's handlers. These obstacles, along with numerous jumps, allowed the crowd of breeders, handlers, and spectators to see what an exciting event agility competition could be. With the amount of interest that was shown during that entertaining presentation, the world of agility sprouted roots and began to grow.
By the early 80s, the sport was sanctioned in the United Kingdom by the KC(Kennel Club) and grew on both a national and international level. British dog clubs along with the standard obedience and conformation training offered dog agility training tips and courses. At that time, agility dogs of all sizes were competing against each other in the trials. The United States Dog Agility Association (USDAA) made agility a prevalent sport in the U.S. beginning in 1986. The late 80s and early 90s, thanks to the USDAA, presented the dogs with classes based on the shoulder height, thus allowing the dogs of similar body sizes to more fairly compete in properly sized jumps. In 1987, The North American Dog Agility Council, formed by Charles Kramar, helped introduce the sport to the well-known American Kennel Club (AKC). The sport is now recognized worldwide. A plethora of clubs and organizations with a focus on agility now exist on the national, international, and independent levels.
Agility is a companion event that continues to attract new attention each year. A trial focuses on the athleticism of the dog, along with the ability of the handler to properly navigate the dog through the agility equipment. The trial is judged for both speed and accuracy. Typical obstacles include a seesaw, weave poles, hurdle jumping, ramps of varying inclination and tunnels. The equipment layout varies by trial, as does the schedule of classes that will compete. Some events may be scheduled only as a fun run, while others could be tournament or title class competitions. The sport is fun and competitive, yet casual. Agility is something that owners and handlers of various ages can do with their dog, no matter the breed.
