Agility is the fastest growing worldwide sport for dogs and their owners. First developed in England in 1978 as a spectator sport, it has grown to encompass a world-wide following with competitions being held in Europe, Great Britain, Australia, New Zealand and the United States.
Dog agility training increases a dog's overall fitness, flexibility and its awareness and responsiveness to its handler. Agility equipment and courses are designed to emphasize the specific skills of balancing, flexing, jumping and tunneling. The combination of a fast pace, athletic challenge, strategy and teamwork are the hallmarks of agility. Training for agility is not only fun, but it also produces an enthusiasm and bond between dog and handler that is transferred to other competitive training such as obedience and confirmation.
Agility can be enjoyed by all breeds of dogs. Both the very large and very small breeds can participate and compete. The only requirement is a physically sound dog with a handler who is willing to have good time while training.