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Class Descriptions
Agile Kindergarten-- Duration: 6 weeks, Class Size: 10 teams
Agile Kindergarten is divided into three areas of training: Clicker Work, Hind-End awareness and Focus (attention) work. Clicker training is for both the handler and the dog. We work with the handler to perfect their clicker timing and show them how to shape the wanted behavior while getting the dog used to the sound of the clicker and realizing what the sound means. Hind-end awareness is for the dog. To accomplish the task of making the dog aware of their hind-end we utilize equipment such as the perch, wobble board, ladder and flat boards. This work is an essential building block to allow the dogs to perform the agility equipment in a safe manner. Focus work is accomplished through fun drills and games which will make the dog want to watch the handler for more instructions. All work in this class is performed on lead.
Prerequisite: Basic Obedience Commands (sit, stay, down, come, etc.)
Beginner Agility-- Duration: 10 weeks, Class Size: 10 teams
Beginner Agility is focused mainly on the dog. This is the class where the dogs learn how to safely perform the agility obstacles. During the 10 weeks of this class, the teams will be introduced to all of the standard agility equipment. Contact equipment will not be performed at regulation height during this class. For the handler in this class, the concept of contact criteria is introduced along with the naming of the obstacles. All work performed in this class is on lead.
Prerequisite: Agile Kindergarten
Foundations I-- Duration: 10 weeks, Class Size: 10 teams
This class finishes introducing dogs to all the standard agility equipment. Handlers learn the five important cues that assist with directing their dogs over or through the equipment. Instruction also includes but is not limited to: the “out” command, “go on” command, front crosses and short sequences of obstacles. Dogs must have a reliable recall. Dogs are required to successfully work with their handler while another team is negotiating a different sequence. This class is broken into 10 week sessions, but is an ongoing learning environment.
Pre-requisite: Beginner’s or equivalent and a recommendation from HOA
Foundations II-- Duration: 10 weeks, Class Size: 8 teams
Obstacles are now at full competition height. Handlers continue to work with cueing their dogs while negotiating more complex sequences. Instruction introduces, but is not limited to: rear crosses, “back” command, and “tight” command. Weave poles are completely closed at this level. Channels are removed. Jumping from different angles is introduced. Handlers continue to evaluate the best path for themselves and their dogs. Dogs are required to successfully work with their handler while another team is negotiating a different sequence. This class is broken into 10-week sessions, but is an ongoing learning environment.
Pre-requisite: FI or equivalent and a recommendation from HOA
Foundations III-- Duration: 10 weeks, Class Size: 8 teams
Obstacles are at differing angles and difficult sequences are utilized. Serpentines, threadles, 180s and 270s are taught. Forward and Lateral work is introduced. Handlers are continually challenged with handling situations often found on trial courses. Students continue to negotiate the best path for themselves and their dogs. Weaves are included in sequences. Dogs are required to successfully work with their handler while another team is negotiating a different sequence. Dog/handler teams are encouraged to find local matches to test their skills outside of the training environment. This class is broken into 10-week sessions, but is an ongoing learning environment.
Pre-requisite: FII or equivalent and a recommendation from HOA