how to set up a dogs agility course in my back yard

• Getting Started. When building your backyard agility course, PVC pipe will be your best friend. ...
• The Standard Jump. Jumps are an important component to every agility course. ...
• Weave Poles. An AKC-regulated agility course includes a series of six weave poles. This obstacle will test your dog's speed and work his joints and muscles.
• Teeter-Totter. The teeter-totter is a fun and challenging addition to the agility course. It tests a dog's confidence as well as impulse control.
• Tunnel. The last thing you'll need to complete your backyard agility course is a tunnel. ...

Full Answer

How to get started in dog agility training?

May 21, 2020 · The best way to set up a jumping obstacle is with adjustable levels, so that you can easily lower or raise the height depending on the level your dog is learning. Ramp it up. One of the competition agility course features you might have seen before is doggy ramps. Ramps can be great fun for your dog, and also tests their agility! You can create your own ramp with old …

How to create a DIY agility course in your backyard?

Dec 14, 2020 · At the opposite end of the run, add the same two-foot section using a 90-degree angle but set it in the opposite direction of the other end. This will make sure your upright bars stay upright and don’t fall over. You can use small screws through the T connections and 90-degree connections to keep everything together.

How can you become a dog agility trainer?

Feb 01, 2022 · 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 do you train a dog to do agility?

Sep 01, 2021 · Set up anywhere with four portable, adjustable jumps with heights ranging from 4-to-24 inches. The jumps, made of furniture-grade PVC, come with a carrying bag and vinyl tape for marking the jumps....

How do I build a dog agility course in my backyard?

2:255:32How To: DIY Agility Dog Walk | TheDogBlog - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou're going to need two up ramps. And then one plank to sit across the true basis of the dog walk.MoreYou're going to need two up ramps. And then one plank to sit across the true basis of the dog walk. So to attach the dog walk planks. Together all I did was I got some door hinges.

How do you build a dog training platform?

0:263:37How to Make a Custom Training Platform for Your Dog. - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clip4 1 by 3 8 foot white wood boards. For them cut into 34 inches. And for them cut into 36 inchesMore4 1 by 3 8 foot white wood boards. For them cut into 34 inches. And for them cut into 36 inches standard plywood cut into 2 3 feet by 3 feet sheets.

How do I start my dog agility at home?

2:178:08Teach basic agility to your dog at home - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo what you want to do is you want to put the books. And the stick that you're going to select onMoreSo what you want to do is you want to put the books. And the stick that you're going to select on the ground. And ask your dog to sniff.

How do I make an agility tunnel?

Homemade Collapsed Agility TunnelOpen up one pop-up laundry hamper. Using the scissors, cut out the bottom circle, ensuring there are no sharp edges. ... Thread the needle with the heavy-duty thread. ... Secure the tunnel to your lawn in the desired position by placing fabric stakes through the hampers and into the ground.

What platform is dog on?

Once the film does come to digital, you'll be able to rent it on Amazon Prime, iTunes, YouTube, Google Play, Vudu, and more.Feb 17, 2022

How do you make a dog train box?

0:213:25Obedience box for training your dog - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBut the function that it helps out with is forging we'll start with that forging is a big thingMoreBut the function that it helps out with is forging we'll start with that forging is a big thing especially if you're into competitive obedience dogs at forge you're going to lose points.

What makes a good agility dog?

The most important traits of a good agility dog are good health and physical shape, strong nerves and focus on the handler. Of course, all of these can be improved on with some training – so you should not hesitate to start agility even if your dog is lacking in one or more areas.Mar 25, 2021

Do dogs enjoy agility training?

The quick answer is that: Yes! Agility is very good for dogs. As long as you are teaching your dog patiently and with lots of rewards, he will benefit a lot from agility training.Mar 25, 2021

What commands are used in dog agility?

The main Directional Commands we teach are “Come”, “Go” and “Back”. Come means approaching and moving to you. Go means you and the dog are facing and moving in the same direction and the dog moves out ahead of you and keeps going until other wise directed. Back means the dog turns away from you.Mar 8, 2013

What obstacles are in a dog agility course?

Dog agility is a sport where you direct your dog through a pre-set obstacle course within a certain time limit. 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.Apr 5, 2022

How do you keep a dog from jumping on wood?

2:006:47How to Make Dog Agility Jumps/ Weavers | TheDogBlog - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd that should give enough room for when the hole goes into the ground it might wobble around itMoreAnd that should give enough room for when the hole goes into the ground it might wobble around it will stay fixed. So now that's all marked you need to get a metal saw and cut along the lines.

How do you make a dog tunnel?

2:045:56Rescue Rebuild DIY Projects | Making Tire Tunnels - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf this is hard to dig you can use something like a dig bar or a pickaxe to loosen up the ground. ToMoreIf this is hard to dig you can use something like a dig bar or a pickaxe to loosen up the ground. To get that shape that you need.

Keep Your Dog Safe

When working on your dog’s obstacle course, be sure to keep safety in mind. Yes, you want to work your dog hard to stimulate the body and mind, but you should always remember that there is a possibility of harm when using an obstacle course.

How to Set Up a Backyard Dog Agility Course

There are a number of different obstacles for you and your dog to work on. We’re going to give you some ideas of how you can make your own course below.

Make Your Own Course

Making your own makeshift course at home can be a great way to work your dog, but you can even build a course with real materials that’s just for them. An agility course can easily be made for cheap using PVC. You only need the upright poles to be about 40 inches, and you can connect each upright using a T connection.

What is weave pole?

Weave poles. “Weave poles” are obstacle course elements that challenge your dog mentally as he or she weaves back and forth on a narrow path between them. You can use holiday lawn decor, like candy canes, or PVC pipes placed firmly in the ground to create weave poles.

How to get a dog to stop being claustrophobic?

If your dog gets claustrophobic by even the shortest of tunnels, try more of a simple hoop like an old tire or hula-hoop to hold upright and try to coax your dog through .

What is an obstacle course for dogs?

Setting up an obstacle course for your dog provides exercise, enjoyment, mental stimulation, and agility practice all in one. As an added bonus, completing a series of activities gives your dog -- and you -- a feeling of achievement. Obstacle course “kits” available for purchase can get expensive. Fortunately, you can DIY your own outdoor obstacle ...

How to keep dogs safe on agility course?

Keeping Your Dog Safe on the Obstacle Course. The most critical and basic component of any agility obstacle course is your dog’s safety. Don’t try to challenge your dog beyond their ability -- start with small jumps and simple obstacles to build your dog’s confidence and prevent accidents. Don’t build an obstacle course without taking your dog’s ...

How tall should a dog jump?

For example, if your dog is two feet tall from shoulder to paw (24 inches), start with a jump that’s about 3 inches off the ground and work up from there.

Can you put a dog through an obstacle course?

Ideally, an obstacle course will be a trust exercise that builds your relationship -- not a game your dog will be penalized for “losing.”. Don’t try to put your dog through a taxing obstacle course if they are significantly older or if they are over weight guidelines for their breed. Check with your vet if you are unsure.

Can you use a dog tunnel as a play tunnel?

You can use children’s play tunnels as doggie tunnels, too, as long as they are the right size and adequately stabilized. Long tunnels aren’t the way to go with a beginner’s DIY obstacle course for your pup-- play tunnels of 2 feet long or less are a good place to start.

How to make a weave poll?

Tap the pipes tight into the tees using a block and a hammer. Drill a hole through the tee into the pipe using a drill/driver fitted with a 1/16-inch bit. Connect the two with a 1-inch set screw.

How to connect top and bottom of a golf cart?

Connect the top and bottom by inserting a 3¼-inch pipe, a tee, and another 3¼-inch pipe between the elbow at each end of the top and bottom. Build a second side, and install 14½-inch pipes between the tees in the center of the bottom and sides of the frame sides.

How to make a long line on a golf course?

Attach the tee-pipe pairs to create one long line. Insert a 12-inch pipe into the tees on either end of the run and fit each with an elbow, a 24-inch pipe, and an end cap. Insert a 40-inch pipe fitted with an end cap into each of the six tees.

How far should a golf cup sit from the ground?

The center of each cup should sit 8 inches and 16 inches from the ground. To hold the sides upright, insert a 12-inch pipe into each outlet of the bottom tee; fit one with an end cap and one with another tee. Push two 12-inch pipes fitted with end caps into the base tee to steady the assembly. Assemble the second side.

How to make a teeter totter?

Make the teeter-totter base by creating two box-shaped sides connected by crosspieces. To build the bottom of the first side, push together an elbow, a 19-inch pipe, a tee, another 19-inch pipe, and another elbow. Repeat to build the top.

How to make a dog board?

Use two weights to slow the descent of the board when a dog is on it. To make them, fill 12-inch lengths of pipes with gravel and cap both ends. Attach the weights as close to the end of the entry side as you can without raising the board off the ground. Secure the weights with metal strapping and 3/4-inch sheet-metal screws.

Why do dogs use jump bars?

Photo by Wendell T. Webber. This jump bar helps Fido build up his hindquarters and develop a better sense of boundaries. It also helps breeds that are prone to hip problems (such as Labs and German shepherds) improve strength and agility.

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 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 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.

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.

What are contact obstacles?

Contact obstacles typically include A-frames and see-saws. A-frames have your dog run up one side and immediately down the other of a wooden, A-shaped obstacle. It is generally easier and safer for your pet to purchase a ready-built contact obstacles, but you can make your own A-frame from wood or aluminum.

Who is Elisabeth Weiss?

Elisabeth Weiss is a Professional Dog Trainer and owner of Dog Relations NYC, a dog training service in New York, New York. Elisabeth relies on science-based, force-free, and reward-based techniques.

Can a German Shepherd get through a tire jump?

A corgi, for example, could not get through a tire jump meant for a German shepherd. Also consider any limited ability your dog has. If your dog has back problems, for example, they may be able to easily get up and down an A-frame, but may not be able to complete a weave pole exercise.

What is agility training?

In agility, a dog and handler complete an obstacle course as accurately as possible and in as short a time as they can . It’s a highly athletic event that requires training, teamwork, and concentration. But you don’t have to compete to enjoy it; backyard agility courses are a great way to provide exercise and stimulation ...

What equipment do dogs use for agility?

Agility Equipment for Dogs. The common pieces of agility gear are jumps, weave courses, and tunnels. You can go all-out and use every piece of competition equipment or stick to a few basics.

What is a dog leaping over a board?

A dog leaps over the panel, bar, or triple jump from a proper distance and from any angle, without displacing the board or bar. You’ll want something portable, that’s lightweight enough for you to move around in case you want to rearrange the course. For example:

How fast does a dog run through a tunnel?

A dog runs at full speed to the entrance of the tunnel, approaching from any angle, runs through it and then exits quickly. This is a good starting point because it’s one of the easiest obstacles to master. For example: This shape-shifting tunnel is regulation-size, 18-feet long, with a 24-inch openings.

How many jumping bars are there in a Hurdle set?

Hurdle Set for Dog Fitness and Agility. You can set the bar to eight different heights, raising it as your dog gains mastery. The set includes four jumping bars, eight high-visibility cones, and height-adjustment attachments. Travel Jump Set.

Where does a dog go on a pole?

A dog enters to the right of the first pole at top speed. While focused straight ahead, he weaves through each pole as quickly as he can, staying as close to the center line a possible. For example:

Is the Agility starter kit good for dogs?

It is a great starter kit, but may be better suited for smaller dogs. The price is most likely lower than what you would pay for each piece individually. Agility Beginner Bundle. With an adjustable tire jump, single/double bar jump, weave poles, and a tunnel, you’ll have what you need to get your dog started on agility.

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.

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 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 jump in track?

Jump – Jumps are obstacles dogs are required to bound over. They’re typically constructed like a hurdle used in human track and field events. Spread Jumps – A jump that requires your dog to clear a predetermined distance and. Panel Jump – Jumps that utilize a flat panel, rather than a hurdle-like design.

What is the Animal College Behavior Blog?

The Animal College Behavior Blog provides tips for making a few agility obstacles that are very easy to create. Specifically, it provides plans for constructing jumps and ladders. However, this blog recommends buying tunnels, rather than making them yourself, as commercial models typically last longer.

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.

Do dog agility courses have videos?

For some reason, DIY dog agility course designers rarely make videos explaining how to build the obstacles detailed in their plans. But we always want to help our readers as much as possible, so we’ve gathered a few of the best videos we could find below.

How to Make PVC Weave Poles

The appropriate equipment for most beginners involves a board (easily bought) for contact work, 2 jumps (easily made out of PVC) and a set of weave poles.

Canine Sports: How to Build a Backyard Agility Course

If you're ready to turn your pup into a serious competitor, a backyard agility course is a convenient solution. Getting StartedWhen building your backyard agility course, PVC pipe will be your best friend. The Standard JumpJumps are an important component to every agility course.

DIY: How to Make Your Own Dog Agility Course

Agility courses are designed to demonstrate athletic ability and stamina as well as the team effort between the handler and the dog. The Right GearWhen planning our backyard agility course, we researched the AKC regulation equipment along with expert training guidelines.

How to Create a DIY Agility Course in Your Backyard

For active, energetic dogs, an agility course you can set up in your backyard can be just the outlet for their endless reserves. Best of all, because you have a fun activity you enjoy doing together, agility training forges a deep bond between human and canine.

10 Tips to Practice Agility at Home with Your Dog – American

Dog agility is one of the fastest-growing canine sports in the United States because it’s exciting, challenging, and a whole lot of fun. Your agility dog must learn to focus on you despite distractions and exciting surroundings. Develop FlexibilityAccording to Spooner, tricks that increase a dog’s flexibility are great for agility training.

MAD Agility Equipment

Agility is the premiere manufacturer of high performance dog training equipment made in the USA. We have been making custom made Agility equipment since 1990 and we continue to do so today! We provide at home training equipment, professional club training equipment, as wll as World Team training equipment.

How to Build a Backyard Obstacle Course for Your Dog

Here’s how to get started with an at-home obstacle course in your own backyard. Setting up an obstacle course for your dog provides exercise, enjoyment, mental stimulation, and agility practice all in one. Keeping Your Dog Safe on the Obstacle Course The most critical and basic component of any agility obstacle course is your dog’s safety.

What is the best way to teach a dog to jump?

Jumping Obstacles. Jumping is a great first activity to teach your dog if you're both new to obstacle training. And if you have a laundry basket and a curtain rod, you have all the tools you need to make short, beginner jumps for your buddy.

How to teach a dog to do tricks?

So many simple tricks are easy for you to teach on your own. Start your course with simple jumps, weave poles, and tunnels, and you'll both look like professionals in no time. There are a few things to consider before creating a dog obstacle course. First, make sure you have enough space for each trick you set up ...

How to get your dog to understand obstacles?

As your pooch starts to get a hang of things and makes it through each obstacle simply following your verbal commands or hand gestures, change up the order of the obstacles. This will help him better understand that each obstacle has its own commands, rather than simply following the same path he learned on.

How to train a dog to jump through obstacles?

When first training your pup, you can simply hold the circle at the desired height while signaling your dog to jump through. All jumping obstacles need to be collapsible. You don't want your pup to get injured if he can't make it through.

How long should a dog tunnel be?

You can always start with shorter tunnels, no more than four or five feet in length, until he gets used to the idea of walking through it. If your dog has never practiced any agility training before with tunnels, he may be hesitant to try it. Just be encouraging.

Where to put treats in a dog tunnel?

You can also try placing treats at the front, middle and end of the tunnel to encourage your new athlete to go through. Again, with all other training, be consistent in your verbal commands to help your pup understand that you want him to go through the tunnel.

Can you store collapsible corridors for dogs?

These lightweight collapsible corridors are perfect for dog training. Plus, when you aren't using them they can be stored easily and take up very little room. Dogs who are completely new to tunnel training could find the same enjoyment in a cardboard box with the bottom removed.