WHAT IS AGILITY?
Agility is a sport in which a dog runs through a timed obstacle course under the guidance of the handler. Agility training strengthens the bond between dog and handler, and provides fun and exercise for both.

Agility in Canada - Agility roots were planted in Canada by Art Newman, of North Gower, Ontario, in 1988, with the founding of the Agility Dog Association of Canada (Now called the Agility Association of Canada A.A.C.). You can now find Agility clubs all over Canada - from major cities to small communities!

WHAT EQUIPMENT IS USED?

Jumps - Each type of jump is set at the proper height for each class, determined by the height of the dog at the withers (shoulders). Dogs must clear the full height of the jump without knocking a bar off.

Tunnels - There are two types of tunnels, open tunnels which are long flexible open tubes; and closed tunnels or "chutes", which are open at one end and have a collapsed fabric tube at the other.

Contact Obstacles - The contact obstacles, named because of the yellow "contact zones" at each end. To perform these obstacles correctly, the dog must get at least one paw in each contact zone on the See Saw and in the down contact zones on the remaining obstacles. The revised contact zone rule is for safety considerations.
For training purposes all of the contact equipment is adjustable.

Weave Poles - The dog must enter to the right of the first pole and zigzag through to the end. They must not miss a pole.

Pause Table - The dog must land on the table and assume a down position for a count of five seconds.


THE THREE LEVELS OF AGILITY

Starters, Advanced and Masters levels are sanctioned by the Agility Association of Canada. The level of difficulty increases substantially with each level.
The Events

Standard - courses must include jumps, all 3 contact obstacles, weave poles, the table, the flexible tunnel and chute. The number of obstacles increases with the level of competition. It demonstrates the overall ability of the dogs to perform all the obstacles.

Gamblers - the object of Gamblers is to successfully complete as many obstacles as possible within a set time allowed in an opening sequence. The obstacles each receive a different point value, common values are jumps, 1 point, tire and tunnels are 2 points, contact 3 points, weave 3 to 5 points. The opening sequence expires with blow of a whistle, at which point the handler has a shorter set time to complete a closing sequence. This final sequence or "gamble" must be done with the handler remaining outside a prescribed area usually outlined with rope or tape and within the time allowed. A minimum number of points are required, in addition to the successful completion of the gamble within time for a leg to be earned.

Jumpers - is composed of jumps, tires, tunnels, and chutes. This game is probably the most popular event by many competitor and spectators alike. It involves excellent handling skills and real team-work. The pace is fast and furious with twisted flows and potential chances for off course penalties at every turn.

Team Relay (2 dogs) - designed to demonstrate team spirit, strategy and sportsmanship. Relay involves a course layout similar to standard agility. The course is divided in sections and each dog on the team is selected by the team members to run a specified section. All team members must run clean and under the time allowed to earn a qualifying leg. Upon completing their respective section, the handlers and dogs wait in their specified area to allow the next handler to continue on the next section. Failure to stay within your box while the next team (dog and handler) is running will result in 10 faults, dog from one team at any time entering the designated exchange box of the other team 20 faults, and second handler dog leaving prior to the first dog in the designated area 10 faults. This game has just been changed - there is no longer a baton required in team relay.

Snooker - is base on the British game of Billiards. There are two separate sequences. The opening sequence requires the handler to perform one of 3 or 4 designated (red) jumps followed by an obstacle of choice, and repeat this pattern at least twice more, a third time is an option left to the judges discretion and outlined in the briefing. The closing sequence requires the dog to follow the obstacles numbered 2 to 7. The game is based on points accumulated and as long as the dog has reached or surpassed the required point level, a qualifying score will be earned.

Steeplechase - The newest A.A.C. game, demonstrates the dog's ability to run and jump at high speeds while maintaining control on the A-frame and weave poles. The dog is required to perform each obstacle at the handler's direction in the sequence indicated by the judge. This is a very fast and furious game!

Please Note: This information was used with the permission of Frank Marklew and All Dog Sports Club from their website www.adsc-agility.com/news.html- we would like to thank them for their generosity in sharing this information - Please feel free to take a look at their site! Just click on the link above.