Pre-Agility Class Descriptions
If you would like to discuss where your dog might fit into the pre-agility program, feel free to contact me.

Pre-Agility classes are suitable for both puppies and adult dogs. They are meant to provide the dog and handler with a working knowledge of the basics for agility. There is much that needs to be learned off of agility equipment before attempting to train with it. Pre-Agility classes also helps with dogs and handlers that may not have plans to pursue agility beyond them.

Health Eligibility: This means that your dog has had his/her vaccinations and is of healthy weight. Dogs going on to do agility need to be fit as they will need to do alot of running, jumping and climbing. An overweight dog may not be able to peform as well and would be susceptible to injury. If you have any doubt about your dogs weight - please as the instructor.

Non-Agressive Eligibility: This means that your dog has never bitten another dog or human. Some dogs are reactive while on leash and are run up on by other dogs - we can generally work with dogs of this nature and will notify you if the dog becomes inappropriate for our classes. If behaviors are noticed that require assistance outside the scope of our training focus - we will refer you to a qualified instructor in the local area.

FOUNDATION CLASSES
by BJ Walker
One of the most exciting new concepts in dog agility training is the inception of foundation courses. There was a time when dogs and their people were simply thrown into an area with equipment and the class began. Now, however, puppies and older dogs are taught how to focus and respond to their handlers before being introduced to agility equipment. The dogs starting to compete with these foundation courses ‘under their collars’ are outperforming many of the more experienced dogs that began their careers without first learning these basic skills.

Riverstone Agility offers Foundation 1 and 2 classes that begin by teaching you how dogs learn. You will learn how to communicate with your dog so that it clearly knows when the behavior you asked for is correctly performed. This involves a 4-step procedure that is always used to teach a new CUE word to the dog. Then, behaviors such as SIT, DOWN, STAY, RECALL, etc. are taught so that they are ‘on cue.’ This means that when you say the CUE word ONCE, the dog performs the behavior quickly and correctly.

Our goal is to help your dog be a better family pet while preparing you and your dog as a team for the great sport of dog agility. By learning games that strengthen the relationship between you and your dog, you both will begin to understand and communicate with each other more easily.

After completing both Foundation classes, you will take your skills onto an agility course in the Beginner’s class at Riverstone. Now you can concentrate on your handling skills confident that your dog will perform and be focused on you and your cues. You will put your team’s foundation knowledge to work!

Agility is a fast paced, fun and rewarding sport to do with your dog. It will take dedication, time, effort and patience on your part. But the rewards that you receive will far outweigh what you have put into it. Besides, the journey itself is a great experience for you to embrace and enjoy with your dog.