What Should You Bring to Your First Agility Class

 

After a few bad "run out the door" adventures. I have found that it is best to keep a few "necessities" in my car for any training opportunities and agility classes that I will be attending.

Here's a handy checklist for your training adventures:

• Toys - make sure you have a few toys that your dog enjoys playing with and that motivates him/her
• Treats - small, soft, both high- and low-value to motivate, or REALLY motivate your dog when needed
• A bowl for water and a jug of water (just in case the facility you are training at doesn't have water accessible)
• A treat pouch or big pockets - you need quick, easy access to the treats
• Clean up bags - yes, responsible pet owners always have "poop" bags in their pockets and cars

Some additional thoughts. Don't feed your dog before class, they will be getting plenty of treats during the training session and you don't want them to be "packing" on the pounds because you are feeding them twice. Plus, hungry dogs are usually food motivated :-)

Also, don't forget to bring your sense of humor. Agility is a super fun way to build a bond with your dog, and to also make a fool of yourself in the process.

Enjoy and see you in class.