In Michigan 4-H, agility supplies 4-H members and their dogs with something fun to do. It also helps to build confidence and teamwork between the 4-H members and their dogs.

Michigan 4-H Dog Agility Manual (4H1647)

DOWNLOAD

March 23, 2015 - Michigan State University Extension

The 16-page full-color Michigan 4-H Dog Agility Manual(4H1467) instructs 4-H’ers in everything they need to know to take part in a 4-H dog agility program. It gives the requirements for training agility and lists agility obstacles and patch requirements. It describes what is required of both dogs and handlers in beginner, intermediate and advanced agility classes. Helpful tables give quick references for obstacles and judging for all classes. A glossary of agility terms, an explanation of scoring and a Michigan 4-H Agility Judge’s Worksheet for each level are included. New publication: February 2014. 16 pages.

Introduction

Originating in England in 1977, dog agility is now a popular sport in the United States that is exciting for both competitors and spectators. Each dog organization – AKC (American Kennel Club), UKC (United Kennel Club), USDAA (United States Dog Agility Association) and CPE (Canine Performance Events) – has its own form of agility. When competing, be familiar with the rules of the club or organization hosting the event.

In Michigan 4-H, agility supplies 4-H members and their dogs with something fun to do. It also helps to build confidence and teamwork between the 4-h members and their dogs. These traits should carry over to obedience, Rally and Junior Showmanship rings. Taking part in a 4-h dog agility program will encourage handlers to work harder on their obedience training. As they reach higher levels of competition, the members will be required to have greater control of their dogs off leash. Although training for agility should always remain fun for both handler and dog, safety and safe use of equipment should be a top priority. An annual equipment inspection is recommended. Members should help their dogs gradually develop the high level of concentration that agility requires, guiding them in a positive manner.

NOTE: In 2018, the Michigan 4-H Companion Animal Committee added an important appendix to this manual that outlines changes to the configuration of the chute used at the Michigan 4-H State Dog Show. If your county uses the Michigan 4-H Dog Agility Manual for agility competition rules in your community, it is recommended that you follow these changes to your chute.

DOWNLOAD FILE

You Might Also Be Interested In

Accessibility Questions:

For questions about accessibility and/or if you need additional accommodations for a specific document, please send an email to ANR Communications & Marketing at anrcommunications@anr.msu.edu.

Tag List
  • 4-h,
  • 4-h animal science,
  • 4-h companion animals,
  • animal science,
  • msu extension
  • follow us on youtube
  • follow us on linkedin
Michigan State University
  • Spartans Will.
  • © Michigan State University

MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer, committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential.

Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Quentin Tyler, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing, MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.

The 4-H Name and Emblem have special protections from Congress, protected by code 18 USC 707.

We comply with the Federal Trade Commission 1998 Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).