Agility

Holly T. Waldrop’s “Teller” CH MACH2 Phoenix Montague No Illusions MXG PAD MJC PJD MFG TQX T2B5 (DCA/CKC agility trial in Murfreesboro, TN)

Agility

Chair
Holly Waldrop

The Greatest Show on Dirt!

You’ve probably seen it on TV. It’s fast, it’s challenging, it’s dog agility! Agility is one of the fastest growing dog sports in the United States, with over a million entries in AKC trials every year. Dalmatians are well-suited to the sport and not just because agility has its roots in equestrian show jumping. With their inherent intelligence, speed, and athletic ability, most Dalmatians love playing the game!

An agility course usually has 14-21 obstacles, such as jumps, tunnels, weave poles, see-saws, and dogwalks. The goal is to complete the obstacles in order within a set time. Since each course is different, the dog relies on the handler to direct the team successfully through the course.

AKC agility competition has levels beginning with the very basic Agility Course Test (ACT) all the way up to the Master Agility Champion (MACH), Preferred Agility Champion (PACH), and Agility Grand Champion (AGCH). If you’d like to check out agility to see if it might be fun for you and your Dal, check with an AKC club near you here. They can help you find a class to train both you and your dog as well as to (Find an Agility event near you.) Check out a trial soon. You’ll probably spot a Dalmatian in the competition!

2023 AKC Invitational Dalmatians! Representing proudly!

(L-R) Jennifer Casapello and Meadow, Marie Slagle and Roxy, Julie Dawson and Spring Vicki King and Buster, Tod Hebert and Atty, Missing is Mary Moore and her boy Mark. The Preferred Dal

Buster and Vickie at December 2023, 18th AKC Agility Invitational

Agility FAQs

How can I get my Dalmatian started in agility?

The best was to start is to take a beginner class. Many are available through AKC clubs. You can find clubs here. Agility requires training and practice. If your Dal already has some obedience training, you’ll be ahead of the game. There are lots of things to learn, especially in the beginning, so a good teacher is an important person in your agility journey!
How old does my dog have to be to compete in agility?

For AKC agility, your dog must be at least 15 months old. However, many longtime agility trainers suggest waiting a little longer so that your dog’s body and mind can mature. Agility requires a lot from your dog, and a little maturity is never a bad thing. There are plenty of things you can train during this time that will help your teamwork in the long run.
How high does my dog have to jump?

Jump height is determined by measuring the dog’s height at the withers. Once your dog is 15 months old, s/he can get a temporary measurement card to compete. This is done by having a Volunteer Measuring Official (VMO) measure your dog and can only be done at an agility trial. This measurement will be valid until your dog turns 2, at which time s/he must have 2 more measurements for a permanent height card.
How can I learn the rules for AKC agility?
What classes are available in AKC agility?

The very first level is the Agility Course Test (ACT) program. This is designed as an introduction to beginning dogs and handlers. Often these tests are put on by an AKC club as part of their beginner classes. Once your dog is ready for an actual trial, you may choose between Standard, Jumpers with Weaves, Fifteen and Send Time (FAST), and Time2Beat classes. If you’re really brave, you can enter them all!
Can my child run our Dalmatian in agility?

Absolutely! There are no restrictions on age in agility. If your child can handle your dog and remember the course, s/he is more than welcome! Often, we find the kids run the dogs as well as adults. If you’re interested in the AKC Junior Handler program, your child will need a special number. The link to sign up is here for a Junior Handler’s number.
Are there benefits to training my Dalmatian in agility?

The short answer is – yes! Dalmatians have lots of energy, and agility training is a good way to help expend that energy and make them a better pet. It’s also a way to help build your dog’s confidence as s/he learns to navigate obstacles and courses. It’s good for handlers, too, as it keeps us moving more than we might otherwise.