4-H Dog Program Expands into Agility
As you may see on several sports channels these days, the new craze in dog training is the agility trials. You know, where the dog jumps hurdles, walks over planks, and jumps through hoops? Generally you will see the border collies dominating the contest; however, all different kinds of dog breeds compete in this fast-paced and fun event. As a result, the Washington County 4-H dog program is venturing into the agility arena as well. [downloadable file with obstacle construction notes included]
Starting in 2006, the county fair dog show will have competitive classes for agility. Designs are currently available at the Washington County 4-H office for members to build their own obstacles. Obstacles construction plans can also be downloaded in .pdf form by clicking Dog Agility Obstacles Construction . In the coming months, both dog and handler can learn discipline and companionship together as a team.
In 2006, all agility exhibitors will run the "pre-beginner" level course, which includes two bar jumps, a dog walk, a pause box, an open tunnel, and then a bar jump. Dogs must be on leash for this level. Agility is a timed obstacle course of 6 to 16 obstacles depending upon the class. Scoring is done by a judge making deductions for faults such as jumping off an obstacle or missing a contact, running the wrong course, refusal of an obstacle and taking too much time on the course. The most important element of agility is fun, yet dog/handler teams must work well together. Dogs must be at least 1 year old at fair time to compete in agility. Dogs in season will not be allowed to show. The scoresheet for the Washington County 4-H pre-beginner agility class can be viewed in .pdf format by clicking Pre-beginner Agility Scoresheet .
For state agility details, you may refer to the “4-H Dog Shows: Guidelines for Nebraska” (4-H 419) booklet, which is available at the Washington County 4-H office.
The agility class will be an addition to an already popular dog program in Washington County. Currently, the show consists of two aspects that are broken down by the 4-H member's age or level of difficulty. Dog obedience is the area of how well the dog follows commands such as sit, down, heal, stay, and long stay. The second dog show component is the dog showmanship. There, the judge is looking at how well the 4-H members handle their dogs. Dog knowledge plays a part as the judge asks the 4-H members questions about the canine species, breed, and pet care. Showmanship also includes how well the dog is taken care as far as clipped nails, combed hair, clean ears, etc.
Interested in exploring dog training, including agility, through the 4-H program? Call the Washington County 4-H program at 426-9455 or stop by the 4-H office at 1718 Washington Street in Blair.
