What is Agility?

Agility is the ultimate game for you and your dog. It also one of the most exciting canine sports for spectators. In agility, a dog demonstrates is agile nature and versatility by following cues from the handler through a timed obstacle course. The course has jumps, tunnels, weave poles, and other obstacles. Agility strengthens the bond between dogs and handlers, it is extremely fun, and it provides vigorous exercise for both!

The AKC offers two types of agility classes. The first is the Standard Class which includes obstacles such as the dog walk, the A-frame, and seesaw. The second is Jumpers with Weaves. This class only has jumps, tunnels and weave poles. Both classes offer increasing levels of difficulty to earn Novice, Open, Excellent and Master titles.

After completing both an Excellent Standard title and Excellent Jumpers title, a dog and handler team can compete for the MACH (Master Agility Champion title) - faster than the speed of sound!

Agility began in England in 1978. The AKC held its first agility trial in 1994. Agility is now the fastest growing dog sport in the United States and is the fastest growing event at the AKC!

AKC agility is available to every registerable breed, from Yorkshire Terriers to Irish Wolfhounds. The dogs run the same course with adjustments in the expected time and jump height.

Safety of the dogs is a primary concern for AKC agility. The classes are divided by jump heights in order to make the competition equal between the different size of dogs.




© 2006 American Kennel Club® (AKC Copyright and Trademark Statement)