When The Perfect Pup opened their second facility, we incorporated several new programs and classes that could take place there. Besides the daycare and day camp programs, we also introduced brand new agility classes. We offer three classes for Agility, Agility 1, Agility 2, and Agility 3. Clients and their pets must complete Agility 1 first and then can graduate to 2 and 3. The benefits of canine agility are endless. One of the greatest benefits of Canine Agility is that it is a great way to build a bond with your dog. It is also a great activity for dogs that have a hard time with their confidence. In this week’s article, we will focus on some more benefits of Canine Agility.
The Benefits of Canine Agility
Canine Agility Provides a Great Way to Exercise
Many of the dogs that enroll in Agility are breeds that require a lot of exercise. Running through an obstacle course is a great way to exercise. Agility can keep a dog from getting obese, increases its endurance, and strengthens bones and joints. One of the more common sayings we go by at The Perfect Pup is that a tired dog is a well-behaved dog!
Agility Exercises the Canine’s Natural Instincts
A dog’s purpose was never to sit home on the couch all day. Agility Training encourages them to use those natural instincts by mimicking the things they would do in the wild to hunt prey. While training for Agility, your dog will squeeze through small spaces, jump, and run which all are behaviors they would practice in the wild. By letting your canine practice Agility, you are giving them the opportunity to exercise their natural desires.
Agility Improves Communication with your Dog
A dog and owner must be able to effectively communicate for the Agility program to work. Owners must verbally and physically communicate with their dog to navigate the Agility obstacles. You must also be able to communicate the speed and direction so your dog can make it through the course without a problem. Most beginner Agility classes focus on walking at first which allows you to slowly start the process of effective communication with your pet.
Agility Strengthens the Bond Between Dog and Owner
Agility also strengthens your bond with your dog because your dog has to rely on you to lead them through the course and learn it. On the other hand, the owner relies on the dog to actually stay the course and finish it. The bond that both of these activities form increases trust and therefore, strengthens that bond between dog and owner. Contact us to find out more about our Connecticut Canine Agility Classes.