Agility

Agility is a newer sport to the dog fancy. Introduced at AKC events in the 1990's it has a strong history here in the state of Texas and Kord and I recently joined the ranks of agility enthusiasts.

As we have learned, agility capitalizes on the athletic ability and partnership skills of a team composed of one dog and one handler. Teams progress through an obstacle course composed of a combination of A-frames, dog walks, teeter-totters, crossovers, tunnels, shoots, weave poles and jumps, interspersed with tables or other marks for static exercises like sitting, lying or standing. The obstacles themselves are difficult enough but to increase the difficulty level they also throw in the element of time management with each team racing against a clock and the other competitors in their class. The dog with the highest score in the shortest amount of time is High In Trial. Though other dogs can also earn qualifying scores toward various agility titles by completing the course with few errors and good time.

Standard schnauzer owners are generally encouraged to wait until their dogs are at least two years of age before beginning agility training and as with anyone contemplating a truly athletic endeavor, should be examined by a veterinarian (or medical doctor ;-)) prior to initiation of a training regimen.

As our boy is a little under the recommended starting age, we will likely take it slow and work on agility as we have time between obedience courses for now. But stay tuned for photo's and videos of this and other dog sports in the coming year.