Crufts took over the living rooms of millions of households across the UK last weekend with one of the highlight events being the dog agility.
Instead of simply just being an entertaining weekend event, the show has a more significant effect on owners and their four legged friends. Encouraging dog owners to take-up the hobby, especially here in Sheffield.
Besides word of mouth, events such as Crufts are what bring new eyes and participants to the increasingly popular hobby.
Layla Whitaker, dog handler and official dog agility judge, said: “I love this sport, its great for my mental wellbeing, physical wellbeing and I get to spend quality time with my dog.”
So, what is agility?
Agility is a sport where a dog owner guides a dog around a course full of obstacles such as seesaws, tunnels, A-frames and jumps, all whilst being timed! The hobby is great for keeping both owners and dogs happy and healthy.
Dogs of all shapes and sizes are encouraged to take part, according to the Kennel Club, the official body that oversees competitions and trials, dogs are divided into four groups; small, medium, intermediate and large.
Agility clubs across South Yorkshire are facing positively large amounts of new members and the demand for trainers in the area is high.
Why do agility?
Not only is it a fun and beneficial hobby, there is a competitive aspect too. Dogs can work their way through seven different grades, starting at one and winning their way up to seven.
Ms Whitaker, said: “Agility for me is always fun first, but having the competitive side and making a day out of competitions is what I love about it.”
How do I get involved?
For the safety of the dog and the handler, it is advised beginners go to a qualified trainer before diving head-first into the rabbit hole that is dog agility.
Agility clubs across South Yorkshire are facing positively large amounts of new members and the demand for trainers in the area is high. This is largely because of the recent coverage of Crufts.
There are thousands of clubs and trainers across the UK and lots in the Yorkshire area, a good place to start is checking the Agilitynet website.
Is it safe for your dog?
Dogs must be registered with the Kennel Club and measured before competing, this is for the safety and wellbeing of the dog and those at competitions.
Owners are also advised not to begin training on equipment until the dog has reached one-years-old, this advice comes from the Kennel Club and is imply for the benefit of the dogs. Dogs should also be well socialised before competitions to encourage a positive experience for dogs and handlers.
Misconceptions about the sport may be that this is harmful or cruel. However, dogs love participating and handlers do not force their dogs to do anything.
Ms Whitaker, a two time competitor at Crufts, said: “Dog safety is paramount, if the dogs didn’t want to do it or disliked it at all they simply wouldn’t run.
“Like other judges, I try and make courses as safe as possible.”
