agility course how to build

by Angelica Gleichner 3 min read

Planning Your Agility Course Download Article

  • 1 Evaluate your dog’s capability. As you start thinking about what obstacles you want to set up in your course, consider your dog’s capability. Make sure plan obstacles that are appropriate for your dog’s size. ...
  • 2 Build contact obstacles. Contact obstacles typically include A-frames and see-saws. ...
  • 3 Plan a tire jump. ...
  • 4 Plan your weave poles. ...
  • 5 Lay out tunnels. ...
  • 6 Create a few layouts. ...

Full Answer

How do you make a dog agility course?

0:565:32How To: DIY Agility Dog Walk | TheDogBlog - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou're going to need eight pieces of PVC. Cut at 15 centimeters you're going to need four elbowMoreYou're going to need eight pieces of PVC. Cut at 15 centimeters you're going to need four elbow joints. And eight t pieces. Okay. So what you're going to do first is grab two T pieces.

How do you build an agility frame?

Instruction Steps:Build the A-frame climbing wall. Use a table saw or circular saw to cut two 4′ x 8′ sheets of plywood down to 3′ x 8′. ... Add wooden rungs to the wall. Wooden rungs will aid your dog's traction as he climbs the A-frame. ... Paint the A-frame wall. ... Finish the A-frame wall.

How do you make PVC dog agility equipment?

0:001:37PVC Dog Hurdle Jump - DIY Guide - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipCut for 12 inch sections to 35 inch sections and to 45 inch sections. Next dry fit the structure ofMoreCut for 12 inch sections to 35 inch sections and to 45 inch sections. Next dry fit the structure of the hurdle jump place the 12 inch sections in the 4 way to use facing opposite directions.

What obstacles are in a dog agility course?

Courses typically have between 14-20 obstacles, which can include tunnels, weave poles, tire jumps, seesaws, and pause tables where the dog must stop for a set amount of time. At each trial you and your dog will race around the unique courses designed for that day.

What are the dimensions of an agility a-frame?

The A-frame in an agility course The A-frame consists of two wide planks (36” wide and 9' tall) that are propped up at an angle, creating the characteristic “A” shape. A-frames are typically blue and yellow, with the contact zones (the zones a dog has to touch) at either end being about 42” wide.

How tall is an agility a-frame?

9 feetA-Frame. The A-Frame is constructed from two panels, the top surface of which is constructed from wood or other fabricated material that can be properly surfaced. The panels are 35 to 49 inches wide, and their length is within 2 inches of 9 feet.

How do you make PVC pipes jump with agility?

1:367:48How to make Agility jumps | DIY Dog Agility Course - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOn both of them and then we're going to cut them this is our pvc pipe. All cutter let's see if itMoreOn both of them and then we're going to cut them this is our pvc pipe. All cutter let's see if it works. And chop and chop. And chop. Not perfectly straight but i'll probably get better nice job.

How do you make a hurdle out of PVC pipe?

2:339:22DIY PVC Adjustable Hurdle for Under $15 - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBecause of the elbows ended up giving it a little bit of height. So 28 inches is where I cut it soMoreBecause of the elbows ended up giving it a little bit of height. So 28 inches is where I cut it so that the hurdle height would be 30 inches. And then on top of that I have the two inch pipes.

How do you make a PVC agility ladder?

0:262:01How to make an Agility Ladder - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd I I cut it off into 20 inch pieces. Then I drilled three holes in the PVC pipe at the very endMoreAnd I I cut it off into 20 inch pieces. Then I drilled three holes in the PVC pipe at the very end at the ends of the pieces that I cut off I drilled two holes for the rope.

What age should a dog start agility?

12-18 monthsThe Bottom Line. You can start agility flatwork and tunnel training with a puppy as young as 8 weeks old. However, until your dog can complete a full course he should be at least 12-18 months of age. Agility is a high-impact sport.

How long does it take to train a dog in agility?

1-2 yearsHow long does it take to train a dog? Generally, attending class with an adult dog, over 1 year of age, with no behavior issues and who understands how to use their body will take 1-2 years. 1 year with an experienced handler or 2 years with an inexperienced handler.

How far apart should dog agility poles be?

The minimum number of poles should be five and the maximum number 12. They should be in a continuous line, as straight as possible and should be 60 cm apart between the poles.

How do you make agility seesaw?

2:258:59How To: DIY Agility See-Saw | TheDogBlog - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou're going to need two pieces of PVC. Cut into 20 centimeter length. And last but not least fromMoreYou're going to need two pieces of PVC. Cut into 20 centimeter length. And last but not least from uprights you're going to need 2 PVC pieces. Cut into 35 centimeter length. So all those materials.

How do you make an AKC frame?

6:4413:31DIY AGILITY A-FRAME for Backyard Agility | Build an Agility CourseYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe are going to screw. Together the base framework for the a-frame. Again we have the three boardsMoreWe are going to screw. Together the base framework for the a-frame. Again we have the three boards that are 33 inches. Long each.

How do I make a dog ramp for stairs?

2:053:17Quick and Thrifty Ways to Build a Dog Ramp and Steps - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd screwed it into the crate. Then we cut the mat to size and stapled it onto the steps for gripMoreAnd screwed it into the crate. Then we cut the mat to size and stapled it onto the steps for grip and to prevent getting any slivers in the dog's paws.

How do I make a dog ramp?

1:144:33'On The Fly...DIY' Dog Ramp - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSaw you'll need two two by fours cut at 48 inches 14 1 by fours cut at 16 inches. One two by fourMoreSaw you'll need two two by fours cut at 48 inches 14 1 by fours cut at 16 inches. One two by four cut at 13 inches two two by fours cut at 16 inches. These are the legs.

How to build a dog agility course?

To build a dog agility course, start by finding a level, wide-open space for your course. Then, remove any obstructions that could hurt your dog, like sticks or rocks. Next, lay down a contact obstacle, such as an A-frame or seesaw, which you can buy or make yourself.

How to help a dog with agility?

You can use all kinds of things around the house to help your dog improve its agility. I've used broomsticks, plumbing, squeegees, ramps, and even plungers. Just be sure to familiarize the dog with the equipment and show them what you want them to do.

How to teach a dog to walk on a course?

Once you have introduced the course to your dog, take them on a walkthrough so that they can start to understand each obstacle. Help guide them up and down contact obstacles and over jumps. Use vocal commands, treats, and gentle touch to help guide your dog through the course the first time.

How to train a dog to be a dog trainer?

Before you ever start training, let your dog explore the course. Unleash them in the area of the course and allow them to sniff around and familiarize themselves with the equipment. Familiarizing early on helps your dog feel more comfortable on the course when training.

What to look for when purchasing agility training equipment?

If you are considering purchasing equipment, look for agility training kits that allow you to bundle obstacles. The right package could help save money when compared to buying pieces individually.

Why is agility training important for dogs?

Agility training can help satisfy your dog’s natural instincts and allows them to release built-up energy, all while helping to bring you and your pet closer together.

How to help a dog through a course?

Use vocal commands, treats, and gentle touch to help guide your dog through the course the first time.

Tunnel

You can use a premade dog tunnel for the tunnel, which you can buy at any pet store. If you want to make your own, you can grab yourself some corrugated tin tubes.

Weave Poles

For your weave poles, there are many DIY options. You can use anything like poles you have lying around, wooden sticks, or even tall pegs or stakes. The most obvious and best option would be PVC again. PVC is plastic, so it is sturdy and is light.

Standard Dog Jump

Finally, it is time to make your jump! To make your jump, you will need:

What to do if playback doesn't begin?

If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device.

Do you have to set up agility classes?

Online agility classes and virtual trialing at home does require you to set up your own courses. If your setup isn’t built closely enough to how it is designed, you might not be practicing what your instructor wants you to be practicing, and for trials, if the course isn’t what was designed , it might not be judgeable.

Why Build Your Dog an Agility Course?

Taking the time to do agility training with your pet is an excellent way for both you and your dog to get exercise, as well as bond together.

How many obstacles are there in agility?

A dog agility course is where these competitions take place and typically consist of 14 to 20 obstacles. The obstacles are used to train, or just as a means to exercise ...

What is the simplest obstacle to build?

The bar jump is probably one of the simplest obstacles to build. Depending on the size of your dog and whether or not you intend to train them for competition, you’ll have to follow the AKC’s height standards for the jumps.

What are some obstacles that dogs go through?

Weave Poles. One of the most impressive obstacles to watch dogs go through is probably the weave poles. They’re also one of the most challenging to learn, so having a set at home is almost a necessity. Luckily, they’re easy to put together!

What is the purpose of obstacles in agility?

The obstacles are used to train, or just as a means to exercise and bond with your dog. If you’re looking to compete in agility, know that it’s going to take a lot of patience and dedicated training from both you and your pooch.

How tall is a dog's base?

All you need is a 36-inch square of wood with a non-slip surface that’s 3-in ches in height. You can always use wood glue and stack a few layers of plywood together to get the proper height. Once you have that, determine the height class your dog is in and build a solid base that is proportional to their height.

Is CVCA liable for dog agility?

Disclaimer: Please be sure to follow all safety precautions and instructions. CVCA Cardiac Care for Pets is not liable for injury due to the construction or use of a dog agility course.

1. DIY Dog Agility Course, From This Old House

Using PVC pipes, This Old House provides detailed DIY dog agility course plans with helpful pictures to make three key obstacles for your backyard dog agility course. You’ll be able to make an agility jump, weave poles, and a teeter totter. These plans result in sturdy, durable builds.

2. Dog Agility Course at Home, by Natural Dog Owner

You’ll be able to set up your DIY dog agility course using the suggestions and plans supplied by Natural Dog Owner. Every obstacle you’ll need for a complete course is covered in this article.

3. Clean and Dirty Jumps, by Helix Fairweather

Learn how to build dog agility equipment with hurdles with a few simple materials. Helix Fairweather has straightforward plans, including a clever way to use office supply clips as a crossbar hold. You can jump for joy too, because it’s easy on your budget and won’t take you long to construct.

4. Tire Jump, by Camp Bandy Pet Resort

If you want to challenge your dog with a brightly colored and exciting tire jump obstacle, these plans by Camp Bandy Pet Resort offer all the measurements and detailed instructions you’ll need. Also, you won’t need an old tire because a drainage pipe is used to make the ring.

5. DIY Dog Agility A-Frame, by Instructables

An A-Frame is a must-have for any dog agility course worth its weight in dog treats. With a certain amount of woodworking knowledge, you can save money by making your own contact obstacle. Instructibles provides step-by-step instructions, along with plenty of useful pictures.

6. Dog Agility Tunnel, by Cuteness

Every fun or competitive agility course needs a tunnel. It might be easier to purchase a child-size tunnel, but for money-saving purposes, you can DIY a bigger, wider tunnel. Cuteness provides clever plans for a serious tunnel.

7. DIY Agility Dog Walk, From The Dog Blog

If you prefer DIY plans in video form, The Dog Blog offers an excellent “how to build dog agility equpiment” video for making a cute yet sturdy dog walk. The video is easy to follow and full of helpful tips.

Why Build Your Dog an Agility Course?

Dog agility courses can be incredibly beneficial for many dogs. Some of the most notable benefits they provide include:

What is agility training?

Agility courses provide dogs and their owners with a fun and healthy way to bond while getting some exercise. You can even sign your dog up to compete in organized activities, called agility trials, if you’d like! If you want to start teaching your dog to do agility work, you’ll need a few obstacles. You can buy commercially manufactured obstacles ...

How to play with your dog in your backyard?

As a fun way of playing with your dog in your backyard. If you choose to go this route, you can make whatever obstacles you like, set them up however you want, and teach your dog to complete them any way you wish. Just keep your dog’s safety in mind and go have a blast. In organized agility trials.

How to keep a dog from boredom?

Learning to negotiate obstacles while following you around an agility course will help keep your dog’s brain humming. This will help prevent boredom, provide a number of emotional benefits, and generally help keep your dog healthier and happier.

What is a dog tunnel?

Tunnel – A flexible tunnel your dog must run through. Collapsed Tunnel – A collapsed tunnel is like a normal tunnel, except that the frame is removed from the far end. So, your dog will have to run in the open side of the tunnel and then push her way through the opposite side which is caved in.

How many square feet are there in a golf course?

Most official courses are set up in an area that measures about 10,000 square feet. That sounds gigantic, but it’s really not – that’s a square area with 100-foot-long sides. You’ll clearly need a big backyard to set up an official course, but you won’t need acres and acres of space.

Can you build a multi unit agility course?

Equipped with these plans, you should be able to construct a multi-unit agility course in no time. These plans will explain how to make jumps, weave poles, and a seesaw.

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