Agility is a dog sport that was first developed in 1978 for the half time show at an equestrian show jumping event. The Agility Association of Canada (AAC) was founded in 1988, bringing the sport to Canada.

In a standard course, a dog and its handler negotiate a course consisting of jumps, tunnels, pause table, weave poles, A-Frame, Dog Walk and a Teeter Totter. The course is timed and judged on accuracy and speed. There are also two games in which the dog and handler team seek to accumulate as many points as possible, called "Gamblers" and "Snooker." "Jumpers" is a game which mimics the equestrian show jumping with jumps and tunnels only and is judged on speed and accuracy. "Team Relay" is where two dog/handler teams try to complete a course accurately and quickly, each doing half of the course.

AAC allows all dogs, regardless of pedigree, size and age, to participate in agility, provided they are 18 months of age or older. Crossbreeds are called "All Canadian" and are eligible for competition and titles. Dogs may achieve titles in Starters, Advanced, Masters and ultimately earn a Championship title.

The heights of the equipment and the course time are determined by the height, build and age of the dog. Dogs over the age of 7 years of age may compete in "Veterans" with jumps at a lower height and a longer course time. "Specials" is for dogs whose physical build necessitates a lower jump height for safety.

At NADA, Inc. we offer a Puppy class to members’ puppies. In this class, puppies are introduced to the tunnel, table and learn to walk on flat planks on the ground that are the basis of the dog walk and teeter. The puppies also learn some basic obedience necessary for agility. This class is designed to socialize the puppies and give them some basics in a safe and fun manner for their growing bodies and minds.

At NADA, Inc., we also offer Beginners classes to adults and their dogs who are one year or older. In this course, dogs learn how to do all of the pieces of equipment in a fun and safe manner. By the end of the 8-week course, beginner dogs and their handlers can complete a simple course (on or off leash).

In our Intermediates class, the handlers learn how to identify lines and figure out how to handle their dogs off leash. The dogs also become more proficient at doing the equipment. We also teach some of the AAC games during the Intermediates class.

In our Advanced class, handlers and dog teams work together to handle more complex and challenging sequences, and work more on the AAC Games. Once in the Advanced class, the dog and handler teams are ready for an AAC competition.

Why Do Agility?

For more information on the sport of agility, check out The Agility Association of Canada (website).