The Alsatian (G.S.D) Training Club

 

 

Agility is a fun, fast and exciting sport for dogs and handlers. The dogs must complete a course of jumps, tunnels, weave poles and other obstacles; whilst the owner guides the dog using their voice and body language. The challenge is to complete the course with the least number of faults, in the quickest time possible. With experienced dogs and handlers completing complicated courses as fast as they can, this is equally testing and stimulating for both dogs and handlers.

Who can take part in agility?

Any dog who is fit and healthy can take part in agility, although certain breeds of dog are better suited because of the jumping involved (if in doubt check with your vet first). All size and breeds of dogs are welcome, with the height of jumps altered accordingly.

Dogs can start agility training at 12 months old, and start competing at 18 months old. This ensures that their bones have had a chance to develop fully first. Particularly large breeds of dog may have to delay starting training until they are 18 months, but again we would advise that you follow the advice of your vet.

What different classes and competitions are held?

Newcomers: For dogs new to agility, dogs are introduced to each element of the agility course slowly, ensuring that all dogs are confident and safe on all of the equipment.

Beginners: For dogs that have completed the newcomer’s class, but still need to gain experience. Handlers and dogs begin to learn techniques that will help them complete sequences of obstacles and full courses.

Large and Small Dogs Class: For experienced dogs and handlers, the emphasis moves from learning the obstacles, to learning handling techniques and improving skills.

Monthly Competitions: Once a month a fun competition is held, where handlers get the opportunity to practice the handling skills they have learnt in training on a full length course. The dogs run in various classes depending on their size and ability level.

Agility Limit Shows and training: A few times during the year we hold a weekend limit show, with a UK trainer and judge. The first day is normally run as a competition, with the second day being a training day.

We also hold a much larger three day limit show each May which attracts a number of UK competitors.

What times are the classes and where:

During the winter all classes are held on Saturdays. Up to approximately April at Beuvelande Campsite, after April at the training field in St Johns (see the how to find us tab)

During the summer classes are held on Monday and Thursday Nights at the training field in St Johns.

For times, please ring the contacts below or look for the latest training schedule on the downloads tab.

How do I become involved?

All new dogs must be 12 months old to be able to join the newcomers class, and should have a basic level of obedience (including a good recall). For safety your dog should only wear a flat collar.
For more information, pop along and watch a training session, or call Di on 07797715868.

All handlers must be a member of the club to participate (see membership tab) and classes cost £2 a week for each dog or £1.00 for the Monthly competitions.