Agility

We are currently planning classes for 2025. We hope to have January classes open for registration in early December. Check Back Often.

Agility is an athletic event that requires conditioning, concentration, training, and teamwork. Dogs and handlers must negotiate an obstacle course while racing against the clock. Agility is a great form of exercise for both dog and handler, and a fun way to bond. And you don’t have to compete to enjoy agility. Taking an agility class offers many other benefits. But many people start the sport just for fun, only to get bitten by the agility bug and become lifelong competitors!

All agility classes are taught outside on our regulation-sized agility field October – May. Summer classes starting mid-June are taught inside our air-conditioned building on mats.

PLEASE READ DESCRIPTIONS CAREFULLY – IF YOU ARE NOT SURE WHAT CLASS IS APPROPRIATE PLEASE USE THE CLUB CONTACT FORM TO ASK YOUR QUESTION.



Outdoor Agility Classes

Class Name and DescriptionPrerequisites and Participant Requirements:
Agility FUNdamentals

This class is suitable for puppies and NEW students/dogs to agility.  Emphasis is on building a solid relationship and skills necessary to begin the process of sequencing multiple obstacles.
Dogs must have completed at least one basic obedience course.  A STAR puppy program or CGC (Canine Good Citizen) is recommended.
Dogs must not be aggressive towards people or other dogs.
See below: Requirements for All Agility Classes
AG Introduction to Contacts and Weaves
In this class we will review/address proper negotiation of all Contacts (A Frame, Dog Walk, Teeter, Table) and various methods of training weave poles.  Suitable for BEGINNERS or those in need of rehab or remedial training.  A good refresher for any team struggling with criteria.

Any previous Agility Foundation classes are helpful.
See below: Requirements for All Agility Classes
AG Beginner Sequencing
In this class dogs and handlers will be negotiating short sequences (multiple obstacles.)  Dogs will be training on all agility obstacles including contacts and weaves.  We will build on your foundation skills and learn how to negotiate obstacles efficiently, accurately with speed, and safely.  Emphasis will also include connection with your dog between obstacles.
Students must have ADEQUATE FOUNDATION SKILLS from previous classes.  This includes maintaining dogs’ attention and focus in order to negotiate multiple obstacles.
 Dogs should be somewhat familiar with all obstacles.  We will be building on these skills. 
See below: Requirements for All Agility Classes
AG Competitive Novice/Open Agility
In this class dogs and handlers will be working on effective communication/navigation skills between obstacles.  You will learn which turning cue works best for you as a team between obstacles.  Also why and where to use specific turning cues which includes working on your timing and staying connected while in motion.   We will have short sequences for drills, and coursework which will include all obstacles.
Students must have previous experience running full courses and negotiation contacts and weaves.  This class is best suited for teams preparing for competition or already competing at Novice/Open level.
Dogs should be familiar with all obstacles.  Handlers must have knowledge of basic handling skills.  
See below: Requirements for All Agility Classes
AG Advanced/Master’s Skills and Coursework
This class is best suited for teams already competing.  We will be fine tuning handling skills and various options as they apply to course challenges.  Emphasis will be on navigating full courses as well as addressing sections of each course to address any issues with handling options, timing, and learning new skills in order to excel in competition.
Students should have previous experience running full courses with various types of turns, discriminations, and a willingness to try new techniques.
Keep an open mind and be respectful of others who may struggle and require additional help.  Encouraging and supporting classmates is also important.
See below: Requirements for All Agility Classes
Requirements for All Agility Classes
All dogs must be non-reactive (aggressive) towards other dogs or humans. Students must have a well behaved dog with ample basic obedience training.  A solid recall as well as focus on task is a plus and is most helpful to keep class running smoothly. Please potty your dog before entering the agility area, and wait for previous class to exit. 

All dogs must be crated when not working. 
Dogs must be leashed entering or exiting agility field. Flat buckle collar and 6 foot leash are encouraged.  Please do not have anything attached to dog’s leash, such as a potty bag container (if dog is ever working on leash.)  Bring interactive toys and soft training treats. A treat pouch is highly recommended.  Please bring plenty of water and bowl for your dog.  For yourself, please wear proper running shoes.  No sandals or open footwear.  A small fan is recommended for cooling your dog while crated.  You will also need a chair and water for yourself. 

Class Schedule

Class NameWhen/InstructorClick Button to Register
Agility FUNdamentals (8057)Revised Start Date
Thursdays
5:30-6:45 pm
10/24-12/5/24
No class 11/28/24

Leslie Granville-Smith
Registration Closed
AG Introduction to Contacts and Weaves (8056)New Start Date
Thursdays
4:00-5:15pm
10/24-12/5/24
No class 11/28/24

Leslie Granville-Smith
Registration Closed]
AG Beginner Sequencing (8060)New Start Date
Wednesdays
3:30-4:45 pm
10/30/24-12/4/24
Leslie Granville-Smith
Registration Closed
AG Competitive Novice/Open Agility (8059)New Start Date
Wednesdays
5:00-6:15 pm
10/30/24-12/4/24
Leslie Granville-Smith
[Registration Closed
AG Advanced/Master’s Skills and Coursework (8058)New Start Date
Wednesdays
6:30-7:45 pm
10/30/24-12/4/24
Leslie Granville-Smith
Registration Closed
Classes that meet outdoors for six weeks for an hour and fifteen minutes Cost for six-weeks: $139. (20% discount for OTCPBC Club members who worked 20 volunteers hours within the last 12 months). All dogs must be crated when not working.  Please read prerequisites and only register for an appropriate level.

Questions about Agility?