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Dog Agility Training - Help Your Dog To Stay Fit And Healthy |
By:
Adrian Fletcher |
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Dog Agility Training - Help Your Dog To Stay Fit And Healthy
Adrian Fletcher
When was the last time you ran an obstacle course. Unless you are in the army, it might have been when you were a kid. Do you remember how difficult it was ? Moreover, if you only stared at the course without actually attempting it then you are aware of how difficult it might have appeared.
Thus if we understand how difficult an obstacle course is or appears to be, why do we think our dogs will be able to complete something like it. The animal is not only being tested for agility but also stamina and conditioning. Dogs are generally energetic and willing to run and jump but can they slalom poles, jump fences or run through a tunnel ? No, they need guidance and formalized training.
Agility dog training programs exist to help dogs cope with the physical aspects of running a dog obstacle course. They help to get a dog fitter and stronger. They also teach the dog about obeying commands as in most cases the dog that runs a course is under the control of their owner. This is good for the obedience behavior of the dog and builds on the relationship that it has with the owner. Dog agility training programs also teach a dog to think for itself and to handle unpredictable situations. For instance, it is not obvious to a dog that it has to run through a tunnel or do a slalom through some poles. This has to be taught to the dog which it will then have to apply to different obstacle courses and situations.
Indeed, it is a hard task to train dogs in these skills. It will take a good few days training with a skilled dog agility trainer before your dog will be capable of running a course. After this initial training you, as the owner, will be in control of the training. Ultimately it is about creating a bond between you and your animal. Once this is set it will be up to you to keep your pet fit and current with the obstacle courses.
The ultimate of agility dog training is involving your dog in competitions. No doubt you have seen these competitions at dog shows like Crufts on television or live. Many people think that these sorts of competitions are cruel for the dog but you will notice that they absolutely love the challenge. For me it is the highlight of many dog shows because the dogs can really let their hair down so to speak after all the formalities of official judging. Most dogs get so excited at the end of the course that they start barking and wagging their tails uncontrollably. Maybe it is the reaction of the crowd but it is clear that the dog really loves what it is doing.
Of course, in order to be successful in running such an obstacle course it will need solid agility dog training so that it has the skills and remains safe. This is an aspect of agility dog training that most people fail to consider. The aim of agility dog training is not just the development of the dog's all round skills and fitness, but also to make sure that the dog does not hurt himself.
And the real motive behind this type of training is to keep a dog fit and active, which ultimately translates to a healthier and well adjusted dog. It's also great fun for you too.
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Article Source: http://www.statssheet.com/articles/article69332.html |
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