Agility Training and Military Style Obstacles

Agility is a fast-paced dog sport open to dogs of all breeds and sizes. Dogs running an agility course navigate a number of tunnels, jumps and obstacles on their way to the finish line. Obstacles such as A-frames, dog walks and teeter-totters are used by all major agility organizations. Many of these objects are similar to military-style obstacles, which you can to train your agility dog.

  1. History

    • Agility is a relatively new sport in the dog world. The first dog agility trial was held at the Crufts dog show in England in 1978. Originally developed as an entertaining spectacle between classes at Crufts, the agility demonstration was such a hit that clubs began to form all over the world. The military has trained dogs using similar obstacles for decades.

    Types

    • Military-style obstacles include A-frames, climbing walls and high jumps. A-frames mimic rooftops and are used to teach the dog to safely navigate a peak. Climbing walls are solid vertical structures, often made of wood and standing at least 5-feet tall, which the dog jumps at, using his paws to push himself over the top. High jumps are made of lightweight plastic panels and teach the dog to clear tall obstacles in his path.

    Significance

    • Agility training requires a dog be fast and agile, navigating objects in the course on his way to the finish line. Military dogs are taught the same basic set of skills, which they use while on duty to accomplish their missions, making military-style objects ideal for training agility dogs. Military-style obstacles are very durable and will last for many years, even during the most vigorous training routines.

    Cost

    • Purchasing agility obstacles can be very expensive, although used military obstacles are often available at surplus sales for a fraction of the price.

    Considerations

    • Military obstacles are often painted drab camouflage colors to disguise them in the field, which can make them difficult for your dog to see. Repainting the obstacles with bright colors such as blue and yellow will increase visibility and prevent injuries. Military-style obstacles are also heavier than most commercial agility equipment, so you may have to enlist the assistance of friends and family to set up your course.