Pre-Competition Checklist: Essential Gear for Agility Trials

Stepping into the exhilarating world of dog agility competitions, whether you're a seasoned pro or a motivated newcomer eyeing your first AKC event, requires more than just a well-trained canine partner. Success hinges on meticulous preparation, and a crucial aspect of that is ensuring you have the right agility supplies on hand. For experienced competitors, this might seem like second nature, but even the most seasoned handlers can benefit from a refresher. For those just starting their competitive journey, navigating the array of available gear can feel overwhelming.

The Essential Gear: Setting Your Dog Up for Success

Jumps: Clearing the Path to Victory

Bar Jumps: Precision and Height

Bar jumps consist of two uprights supporting a horizontal bar. These jumps often have adjustable heights to accommodate dogs of different sizes, a critical factor to consider both for training progression and adherence to AKC regulations. For instance, the AKC specifies jump heights based on the dog's shoulder height, ranging from 4 inches to 26 inches. When practicing, ensure your bars are lightweight and easily dislodged if your dog hits them, preventing injury. Look for jumps with secure but easily movable bars.

Tire Jumps: Mastering the Circular Challenge

Tire jumps add a unique element, requiring dogs to leap cleanly through a suspended tire. The tire's height is also adjustable. Training for tire jumps helps improve your dog's focus and ability to judge distances through an opening. Ensure your practice tire is securely suspended and doesn't swing excessively.

Broad Jumps: Conquering Distance

Broad jumps consist of a series of horizontal elements laid out to create a wider obstacle that the dog must clear in a single leap. These jumps test a dog's power and stride length. AKC regulations specify the width of the broad jump based on the dog's jump height. When practicing, ensure the elements are stable and clearly defined. Using visual cues during training can help your dog understand the required distance.

When selecting your agility supplies, consider the adjustability, stability, and safety features of your jumps. Investing in quality jumps that meet AKC specifications will not only prepare you for competitions but also provide a safe and effective training environment.

Weave Poles: The Art of Nimble Navigation

Standard 24-Inch Spacing: Building Fundamental Skills

The standard spacing between weave poles in AKC competitions is 24 inches. When starting your training, it's crucial to use the correct spacing to build muscle memory and proper technique. Ensure your practice weave poles are stable and securely anchored to prevent them from tipping over, which could startle or injure your dog.

Adjustable Weave Poles: Adapting to Different Trial Standards

While 24 inches is standard for AKC, other organizations might have slightly different spacing. Adjustable weave poles can be a valuable addition to your agility supplies, allowing you to train under various conditions. However, for AKC preparation, prioritize consistent training at the regulation spacing.

Tunnels: Speed and Confidence in Motion

Open Tunnels: Straight Shots to Success

Open tunnels are straight and relatively short, allowing dogs to maintain speed. When selecting open tunnels as part of your agility supplies, ensure they are made of durable material that can withstand repeated use and varying weather conditions. Look for tunnels with good stability and wide openings to encourage confident entry.

Tunnel Bags and Anchors: Ensuring Stability and Safety

Regardless of the tunnel type, secure anchoring is paramount. Tunnel bags, often filled with sand or other heavy material, are essential agility supplies to prevent tunnels from shifting or blowing away, especially during outdoor competitions. Invest in durable tunnel bags that are easy to fill and position.

Contact Obstacles: Precision on the Climb and Descent

A-Frame: Conquering the Peak

The A-frame is a triangular structure with ramps that the dog must climb up and over. AKC regulations specify the height and width of the A-frame. When training, ensure the surface provides good traction to prevent slipping. Your agility supplies should include an A-frame with clearly marked contact zones, often painted in a contrasting color. Consistent training to ensure your dog understands the contact point requirement is crucial.

Dog Walk: Navigating the Elevated Plank

The dog walk is an elevated plank with ramps at either end. The dog must traverse the entire length, hitting the contact zones on both the ascent and descent. Stability is paramount for a safe and effective dog walk. Ensure your practice dog walk is sturdy and doesn't wobble. The contact zones should be clearly marked. Training should focus on maintaining a steady pace and ensuring contact.

See-Saw: Mastering Balance and Timing

The see-saw (or teeter-totter) is a hinged plank that the dog must run across, causing it to tip to the ground. This obstacle requires balance, confidence, and understanding of the movement. When choosing agility supplies, look for a see-saw that moves smoothly and isn't too fast or too slow. Gradual introduction and positive reinforcement are essential when training the teeter. Clearly marked contact zones are also necessary.

Pause Table: The Crucial Stillness

While not a "contact" obstacle in the same way, the pause table requires the dog to jump onto a raised platform and remain in a specific position (sit or down) for a designated period. This tests obedience and focus within the agility context. Your agility supplies should include a stable and appropriately sized pause table. AKC regulations specify the table dimensions. Training should focus on a fast and clean entry onto the table and a reliable stay.

Beyond the Obstacles: Essential Support Supplies

Leashes and Collars: Control and Communication

Agility Leads: Short, Effective Connections

Agility leads are typically shorter than standard walking leashes, often made of lightweight material like nylon or rope. Their shorter length provides better control in crowded trial environments and during pre-run warm-ups. When selecting your agility supplies, ensure your agility lead is comfortable for you to hold and secure enough to prevent your dog from slipping out of their collar.

Competition Collars: Secure and Identification-Ready

For competitions, it's advisable to use a secure collar that also clearly displays your dog's identification tags. Martingale collars, when properly fitted, can offer added security without being restrictive during the run. Ensure your chosen collar is in good condition and won't snag on any equipment.

Slip Leads: For Ring Entrance and Exit

Many handlers use slip leads for the brief moments of entering and exiting the agility ring. These simple leads can be quick to put on and take off. If you choose to use a slip lead as part of your agility supplies, ensure you are comfortable and confident in its use and that your dog is well-accustomed to it. Never leave a dog unattended while wearing a slip lead.

Rewards and Motivation: Fueling Your Dog's Drive

High-Value Treats: Irresistible Incentives

Treats used for agility should be small, easily consumed, and highly motivating for your dog. Consider a variety of flavors and textures to keep your dog engaged. Freeze-dried liver, cheese cubes, or small pieces of cooked meat are often popular choices. When packing your agility supplies, ensure you have an ample supply of these high-value rewards.

Favorite Toys: Play as Positive Reinforcement

For some dogs, a favorite toy can be just as rewarding as a treat. Tugs, balls, or soft plush toys can be used as a reward after a successful run or during training. Ensure the toy is safe and appropriate for use in a potentially busy environment. Having a designated "reward toy" as part of your agility supplies can further enhance its value to your dog.

Treat Pouches: Easy Access for Timely Rewards

A treat pouch worn around your waist or clipped to your belt provides quick and easy access to rewards during training and immediately after a competition run. This allows for timely reinforcement, which is crucial for effective learning. When selecting your agility supplies, choose a treat pouch that is easy to open and close, secure, and can hold an adequate amount of treats.

Comfort and Safety: Prioritizing Your Dog's Well-being

Crates and Carriers: A Safe Haven

A crate or carrier provides your dog with a secure and familiar space to rest between runs. It helps them feel safe and calm amidst the excitement of a trial. Ensure your crate is appropriately sized for your dog, well-ventilated, and comfortable. Consider a crate cover for added privacy and temperature regulation.

Crate Covers and Cooling Mats: Managing Environment

Depending on the weather conditions, crate covers can provide shade and help regulate temperature. Cooling mats can be a lifesaver on hot days, ensuring your dog stays comfortable while waiting for their turn. These are essential agility supplies for maintaining your dog's well-being. Conversely, blankets might be needed in colder weather.

Water and Food Bowls: Staying Hydrated and Fueled

Access to fresh water is crucial throughout the day. Bring multiple water bowls and ensure your dog has access to water, especially between runs. While you might not feed a full meal right before competing, having your dog's regular food available for after their runs is important. Don't forget travel-friendly food and water bowls as part of your agility supplies.

First-Aid Kit: Prepared for Minor Incidents

Accidents can happen. A well-stocked first-aid kit for your dog is a non-negotiable item in your agility supplies. Include essentials like antiseptic wipes, bandages, gauze, vet wrap, pain relief (as prescribed by your vet), and any specific medications your dog requires. Knowing basic canine first aid is also highly recommended.

Handler Essentials: Making Your Day Easier

Comfortable Shoes and Clothing: Ready to Run

As the handler, you'll be doing a lot of running and moving. Comfortable, supportive shoes with good traction are essential to prevent slips and injuries. Wear clothing that allows for freedom of movement and is appropriate for the weather conditions. Consider layers as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day.

Chair and Shade: Resting Between Runs

Agility trials can be long days. Bring a comfortable chair for yourself to rest between your dog's runs. If the event is outdoors, a pop-up canopy or umbrella can provide much-needed shade. Taking care of your own comfort is just as important as caring for your dog.

Water and Snacks: Staying Energized

Just like your dog, you need to stay hydrated and energized throughout the day. Pack plenty of water and healthy snacks to keep yourself going. Avoid sugary drinks that can lead to energy crashes.

Course Maps and Timing Devices: Strategic Preparation

Familiarize yourself with the course maps as soon as they are available. Having a copy with you allows you to plan your handling strategies. A stopwatch or timing app can be useful for practicing and analyzing your runs.

Pre-Competition Prep: The Final Touches

Equipment Inspection: Ensuring Safety and Compliance

Before heading to the trial, thoroughly inspect all your agility supplies. Check for any damage to jumps, weave poles, tunnels, and contact obstacles. Ensure all equipment meets AKC regulations if you are competing in an AKC event. This proactive step can prevent accidents and ensure you are prepared.

Practice Runs: Fine-Tuning Performance

If possible, set up a practice course similar to what you expect at the trial. This allows you and your dog to get in sync and work out any last-minute kinks. Even a short practice session can boost confidence.

Mental Preparation: Staying Focused and Positive

Both you and your dog can feel the pressure of competition. Take some time for mental preparation. Visualize successful runs and focus on clear communication with your dog. Stay positive and remember to enjoy the experience, regardless of the outcome.

Your Checklist for Agility Success

By meticulously preparing your agility supplies using this comprehensive checklist, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the challenges and celebrate the triumphs of dog agility competitions. Remember that safety, comfort, and effective communication are paramount. Good luck, and have a fantastic time at your next event!