The Agility training classes at Wolverine Dog Training Club are designed for dogs of all skill levels, from those just starting out with obstacles to those ready for advanced handling and teamwork concepts. All of our dog training classes are made to teach as many skills as much as possible.
We'll evaluate the performance of the dog and handler to determine if they're ready to advance to the next class.
Below are descriptions and breakdowns of each of our unique agility classes.
Our Classes
Please note dogs need to be at least one year old to start our beginner agility classes and need to be evaluated prior to acceptance to ensure they have the skills to be a good member of their class.
Beginner Agility
Duration: 6 Weeks
This class introduces the agility obstacles. The equipment is set to the lowest height for beginners. All exercises emphasize safe handling techniques and control for accuracy. The dog and handler are introduced to basic short sequencing of obstacles and begin off-leash work. Advancement to the next class depends on the dog doing an independent teeter at a low height, and 6 weave poles open to slightly closed. Dogs and handlers will be moved into the next class upon being able to complete these exercises. A few sessions are usually needed before being able to move on to the next level.
Advanced Beginner Agility
Duration: 6 Weeks
This class introduces the handler and dog to agility handling, while building confidence with the obstacles. The equipment is set to the lower heights for beginners. All exercises emphasize safe handling techniques, focus and control for accuracy. Channel weaves in this class will go from slightly open to semi-closed the teeter and jump heights will slowly be adjusted the height. The dog and handler will work through basic short sequencing of obstacles focusing the handler learning how to direct a dog through a course. Advancement to the next class depends on the dog doing being confident with all obstacles and working as a team with their handler. Dog and handler teams will be moved up according to their ability to complete these exercises. A few sessions are usually needed before being able to move on to the next level.
Intermediate Agility
Duration: 6 Weeks
These classes work on improving the dog's confidence and speed on all the obstacles introduced in the Beginner Class. This class works on broadening the handler's skills with longer sequencing, complex movements, and basic distance work. Dogs work off-leash and work with increasing jump heights to their full jump height for competition. The contact equipment are slowly raised to regulation height and the dogs must learn to do completely closed weaves. This class will start alternating between six to 12 weaves. Advancement to the next class depends on handler and dog working as a team, unassisted performance on the contact obstacles at full height, unassisted performance on the contact obstacles, on 12 weaves, and at a distance from the handler. Dog and handler will have to be able to complete these exercises to move into the advanced/show class.
Advanced/Show Agility
Duration: 6 Weeks
These classes build on the handling and team work concepts introduced in the Intermediate Class to hone the handler's skills. Course analysis is discussed to prepare each team for competition. All equipment is at full height and the weaves are straight. Speed is worked on in the performance of the obstacles to reduce running time. Students will start to learn ring procedures and learn to set equipment properly.