Dog Agility Organizations

Thought it might be interesting to share information found on the affordableagility.com website about agility organizations.
 

Who makes the rules, and how to contact them.

There are 5 major agility organizations in the United States responsible for sponsoring agility competitions and generally "policing" the sport. Understanding some basic differences will help you to know which trials you should enter. Each of these organizations offer their own titles that cannot be mixed and matched. For example, if you earn an advanced title in AKC, you must still start in the first level of USDAA. For the most part, each of the organizations uses the same obstacles, but there are a few that are unique to one or the other, and each one might have some slight differences in the obstacle specifications.  At Affordable Agility, we try to keep on top of all these details in our equipment.

AKC (American Kennel Club) offers agility to purebred and companion dogs. Like the other organizations, you have to register your dog with them. If you lack papers on your dog, you need to send them a picture and description of your dog (to prove it is a pure bred), as well as some other information in order to get an "ILP number" that you will use when entering competitions. You may also apply for a Canine Partner number, which allows your mixed breed to compete in agility alonside purebreds and ILP dogs. AKC has less stringent obstacles, but smaller courses than USDAA. It is a good "in-between" organization for many handlers.

CPE (Canine Performance Events) is growing in popularity, especially among those who have advanced in AKC. They have smooth flowing courses, and are very similar to AKC standards for equipment. It offers a multitude of titles in 5 competitive levels, including classes for junior handlers and older dogs too. Both mixed-breeds and pure-breds are allowed to compete for titles. CPE offers 'fun runs', an easy way to introduce your dog to trials.

USDAA (United States Dog Agility Association, Inc.), is known for allowing mixed-breeds to earn titles, as well as pure-breds. Originating in Great Britain, the USDAA is responsible for the standards of agility used around the world. The obstacles are slightly more difficult (more narrow planks, higher jump heights, and smaller tire size), but once your dog maneuvers these, AKC obstacles will be no problem. Because of the emphasis on speed and more spacious courses, dogs and handlers should be in good shape to move up the ranks in USDAA competitions. Some dogs may also have a hard time clearing the higher jumps.

UKC (United Kennel Club) is known for smaller and tighter courses, demanding more precision and control. But they offer lower height and speed standards. Their philosophy is more to make agility available to anyone regardless of physical abilities, and all dogs, no matter what their breed disadvantages are. UKC is a great organization to master first, as it will make competing in the other organizations easier. But UKC events are harder to find in some areas.  Some 4-H groups adopt UKC obstacle specifications for their competitions.

NADAC (North American Dog Agility Council) is the 4th runner up with approximately 50 clubs in the U.S. NADAC offers more moderate jump heights and safe courses, and uses the least amount of obstacles. Dogs must be at least 18 months old to start, and can be mixed breeds.

How to contact them.
When you join the USDAA you will receive a manual of their rules, a training booklet, and a bimonthly publication of upcoming events.

Visit affordableagility.com for more links, information and equipment purchase.