Dog Agility Size Classes for All Breeds and Sizes

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Posted Nov 2, 2024

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Crop woman in casual clothes looking down at funny dog running through playing tunnel during training on green field
Credit: pexels.com, Crop woman in casual clothes looking down at funny dog running through playing tunnel during training on green field

Dog agility is an exciting and fun activity for dogs of all breeds and sizes.

In dog agility, size classes are crucial to ensure the safety and fair competition of all participants.

There are three main size classes: Small, Medium, and Large.

Small size classes are designed for dogs weighing up to 20 pounds, such as the Chihuahua.

Medium size classes are for dogs weighing between 21 and 40 pounds, like the Corgi.

Large size classes are for dogs weighing over 40 pounds, such as the Golden Retriever.

Dog Agility Basics

Dog agility is a fantastic way to challenge your dog physically and mentally, and it's a great way to bond with your furry friend.

This six-week class is geared to the dog/handler team whose long-term goal is to compete, learn a new sport, or just have fun.

You'll learn equipment and team communication skills, which are essential for success in agility training.

As your skills progress, you'll be introduced to sequencing, polishing obstacle performance, building the dog's confidence and enthusiasm, and introducing the handler to basic course analysis skills.

A foundation course like this will require homework to ensure the dog's long-term success, so be prepared to put in some extra effort outside of class.

Intermediate Teacup

Credit: youtube.com, Teacup dog agility Superior/Intermetiate/Begginer

Intermediate Teacup agility classes are designed for dogs that have already mastered the basics and are looking to take their skills to the next level. These classes typically build on the skills learned in previous agility classes.

Dogs of small stature, regardless of breed or pedigree, are welcome to participate, as long as they measure no more than 22" at the withers. This means that even tiny dogs can participate.

Obstacles and courses are scaled down to a more appropriate size for little dogs, making it easier for them to navigate and have fun. This is especially important for tiny dogs that might get intimidated by larger obstacles.

You'll need to have already completed Agility Fundamentals II before enrolling in intermediate teacup agility classes. This ensures that you and your dog are ready for the next level of training.

Weaves and Connections

Weaves and Connections is a crucial aspect of dog agility, and our classes cater to dogs of all skill levels. In our Beginning Weaves and Consistent Contacts class, you can learn more than one method to build fast and confident weaves with your dog.

Credit: youtube.com, FREE Webinar: Dog Agility Skills - 5 steps to wonderful weaves

This six-week class is perfect for dogs new to weaves or those that need some retraining. We'll work on both running and stopped contacts from the ground up.

One of the most exciting aspects of weaves is building speed and confidence. In our Intermediate Weaves and Flawless Discriminations class, you'll continue to build on the skills learned in the Beginning Weaves class, focusing on weave entries working up to six weave poles.

This class is ideal for dogs still working on perfecting their weaves or for those who are new to discriminations. We'll work on discriminations from the ground up, helping you and your dog become more confident and accurate.

Competition and Training

In dog agility size classes, the competition is divided into three main categories: small, medium, and large.

The size classes are determined by the dog's weight, with small dogs weighing under 20 pounds, medium dogs weighing between 20-40 pounds, and large dogs weighing over 40 pounds.

Credit: youtube.com, Mastiff Competing At Dog Agility

Dogs in the small size class are typically faster and more agile than their larger counterparts.

This is because smaller dogs have a lower center of gravity, making it easier for them to navigate tight turns and tunnels.

Dogs in the medium size class are often the most versatile, able to excel in a variety of agility disciplines.

Their size allows them to cover a lot of ground quickly, but also gives them the power to jump high and run fast.

In the large size class, dogs are often the strongest and most powerful, but may have a harder time navigating tight spaces.

Despite this, many large dogs are able to excel in agility, with their size and strength giving them an advantage in certain events.

Consider reading: Good Agility Dogs

Introductory Classes

Our introductory classes are designed to get you and your dog started on the exciting world of agility training.

In our entry-level classes, you'll learn alongside your dog and get a sampling of agility competition.

Credit: youtube.com, Beginner’s Guide to Dog Agility: An Introduction to Get Started in Dog Agility | Dog Training

These classes are limited to 7 dogs, ensuring personalized attention and a fun learning environment.

Angelica Steinker, our founder, uses a click and play training approach that creates a rewarding and fun agility experience.

You'll need to have completed Puppy Kindergarten or Adult Dog Manners to join our introductory classes.

Handling 101

Handling 101 is a three-week class that focuses on teaching you better handling skills without the added stress of training your dog at the same time.

The first two weeks of the class are dog-free, allowing you to concentrate on learning and practicing new skills without any distractions.

In the final week, you have the option of working with a demo dog, or bringing your own dog to practice your new handling skills together.

You'll learn the difference between your path and your dog's path, and how to communicate this to your dog while navigating the course.

Practice exercises will cover essential skills like crosses, directionals, push, pull, and touch, with a focus on adding distance.

Intro

A man standing next to a dog on a ramp
Credit: pexels.com, A man standing next to a dog on a ramp

Introductory classes are a great way to get started with agility training. Our classes are designed to be fun and mentally stimulating for both you and your dog.

Angelica Steinker, the founder of Courteous Canine, is a published author on agility and uses a click and play training approach. This approach creates a rewarding and fun agility experience for dogs.

Our entry-level classes are perfect for beginners, with a maximum of 7 dogs per class. You'll learn the foundation of agility training, including jumps and tunnels.

In our Intro to Agility: Jumps and Tunnels class, dogs learn to perform obstacles off both sides of the handler's body. This class is a great way to exercise your dog's body and mind.

Our classes are 1 hour-long, once a week, for 6 weeks. This allows you and your dog to learn and progress at a comfortable pace.

Many of our clients report a reduction in problem behaviors after attending our agility training classes. This is because our classes emphasize a high rate of reward and fun for both you and your dog.

We also offer an Intro to Agility: Contacts and Weaves class, which teaches the foundation of weave pole training and contact obstacle performance. This class is just as fun and mentally stimulating as our Intro to Jumps and Tunnels class.

On a similar theme: Good Canine Dog Training

Frequently Asked Questions

What is 24C class in agility?

The 24C class in agility is for dogs 22" or under at the shoulder, allowing owners to enter their dog at this height at their discretion. This class is ideal for smaller breeds or dogs that excel at lower heights.

Sherry Jakubowski

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Sherry Jakubowski is a meticulous and detail-oriented Copy Editor with a passion for crafting compelling content. With a keen eye for grammar and syntax, she has honed her skills in refining articles to perfection. Her expertise spans a wide range of topics, including health and wellness, with a notable focus on canine health issues.