Agility Class Descriptions

5 classes

Progression: Agility Puppy Fundamentals → Intro to Agility → Beginner I → Beginner II → Pre-Novice

Introduces young dogs to agility through fun games, exercises, and low-height obstacles. Teams build confidence and explore tables, tunnels, planks, and the A-frame while working at an age-appropriate level.

For dogs new to agility. Covers flatwork, targets, impulse control, body awareness, forward focus, low contact equipment, tunnels, weave poles, and age-appropriate jump training. The emphasis is on training rather than handling techniques.

Begins proficiency and independence on contact equipment. Expands flatwork into two- to four-obstacle sequences and introduces side changes, weave-pole drills, jump training, and selected handling techniques.

Continues Beginner I with emphasis on contact equipment, weave poles, jumping, and four- to six-obstacle sequences. Develops handling strategies and understanding of front, blind, and rear crosses while reinforcing foundation skills.

For teams finishing Beginner II who are ready to begin working toward competition. Covers full-height jumps, complete weave-pole sequences, contact obstacle criteria, and six- to ten-obstacle sequences. Introduces course-reading fundamentals and the basic handling strategies used in AKC and NADAC competition.

5 classes

Ongoing challenge and skill refinement for teams competing at the Excellent or Masters level. Courses run at full trial difficulty with emphasis on complex handling sequences, speed, and strategic course analysis.

Designed for agility-experienced handlers starting a new puppy. Focuses on age-appropriate foundation skills—body awareness, confidence on surfaces, target work, and equipment introduction—at a pace appropriate for handlers who do not need instruction on basic training methods.

For experienced agility handlers working a young dog through the full foundation curriculum. Covers all contact equipment, weave poles, jump training, and handling skills with minimal time on basic concepts, allowing the class to move at an accelerated pace.

Explores handling techniques beyond the foundation level, including distance work, serpentines, threadles, blind crosses, international-style moves, and advanced course analysis. Class content varies by session based on the specific needs of enrolled teams.

A targeted class devoted exclusively to weave-pole training and troubleshooting. Work covers entry acquisition at all angles, speed development, and handler-position independence. Methods are tailored to each dog’s training history—whether channel weaves, 2x2, or another approach—and to the specific challenges the team is facing.

4 classes

Teams that have started competition. A variety of sequence lengths will be run. Handling skills learned in lower level classes will be used to negotiate through sequence challenges. Handlers will be given opportunity to identify and handle using different strategies. Drills/exercises will continue to maintain criteria for contact, weaves, and jump proficiency

For teams that are competing in Open and/or Excellent and want to continue to increase their skills for competition. Emphasis on course analysis, identifying sequences commonly seen on higher level courses (pinwheels/serpentines/back sides/discriminations), and breaking them down to train.

For teams that are competing in Open and/or Excellent and want to continue to increase their skills for competition. Emphasis on course analysis, identifying sequences commonly seen on higher level courses (pinwheels/serpentines/back sides/discriminations), and breaking them down to train.

For teams working at the AKC/USDAA/UKI masters level. Courses are typically challenging and handlers are encouraged to identify different ways to handle specific sequences. Focus is on setting the best line for every team. Handlers are encouraged to challenge their skills and knowledge. Distance work and international sequences may also be explored.