How to Run a Standard Agility Course

Arrive at the trial grounds a minimum of 2 hours in advance of your scheduled ring time. You can set up your crate and get your area prepared at this time so that you have a comfortable place to relax while you wait for your run. You also need to check in at your ring at this time, and let the steward know you are present. They will issue you your armband. Be sure to let your dog out around 30 minutes before your scheduled time so that he has a chance to potty and stretch his legs. If there is a practice area set up, you may also practice with him at this time.

Report to your ring for your advisement and walk-through. You will be allowed to walk through the course at this time. You will notice that there is a numbered set of cones or flags next to each obstacle. Make note of the order of these cones, as that will be the order you will need to run the course in. Some of the obstacles are used more than once per course, and might have multiple cones next to them. Be sure to study the running order of the obstacles carefully, because deviating from this order will result in a disqualification.

Scout the competition. After you are excused from the walk-through, you can get your dog and report to the ring to watch your fellow competitors. Make note of the judge, and see how he handles the contestants. He will follow a basic pattern in the way he directs people, and having this knowledge before you enter the ring will help you plan your strategy.

Report to the ring immediately when you are called, and remove your collar or lead if required. Place your dog in position, and wait for the judge to give you the signal to start. Begin your course with the first obstacle, and proceed to the second obstacle, the third obstacle and so on. Carefully watch your dog’s movements to ensure she does not attempt to complete the wrong obstacle. Give her signals clearly and guide her, as you are the one who has memorized the course. If you are required to use an obstacle more than once, be sure you complete it in the correct order and the correct direction. Complete the obstacles as quickly and accurately as possible, and exit the ring once you have crossed the finish line.

You can reward your dog after you’ve exited the ring with his favorite treat or toy, and offer him a drink. Do not venture too far from the ring, as they will hand out the awards after all of the contestants have completed their runs. Scores are figured based on the speed and accuracy of the dog and handler, and will be evaluated for a qualifying score. A qualifying score is a run in which the dog and handler earn enough points to receive a leg toward their title. Titles usually consist of a number of legs, all earned through qualifying scores. The legs are handed out separately from the placements, as some dogs may earn a leg and not place in the top three dogs, and some dogs may place in the top three and not earn a qualifying score. If you have received an award, accept it immediately. You can compare your scores with other contestants to see how you did, and you can be proud that you and your dog have completed another successful standard agility run.