Agility Training
The agility classes at SPDTC are designed to be taken in a specific sequence to better prepare teams for a safe and long term participation in the sport of agility. Each team is moved up the class progression based on their performance and instructor’s assessment of how the team is doing. Participation in the Beginners through Advanced classes is subject to an assessment by the instructor. Class sizes and skill level dictates which class you and your dog may be placed in. See the club calendar for schedule details. Please note, SPDTC does not offer private agility lessons.
Puppy Classes at Saint Paul Dog Training Club are open to dogs at 8 weeks of age. We require that all puppies participate in a vaccination protocol developed and overseen by a practicing veterinarian, and generally in compliance with the American Animal Hospital Association guidelines for dogs. Owners will be required to provide evidence of a vet visit and vaccination plan/history at the first class. If your puppy shows signs of illness, please do not bring it to class. For more information see the PDF article “The Dilemma of Socialization and Immunity” by club member John Scandurra, DVM.
If you are not a current student or would like more information on any agility classes or for general information about the agility program, contact Agility@spdtc.com.
If you’re already an agility student at SPDTC, please see your instructor for information on your next agility class, or email the director of agility for information. You may register for your next class online, but you don’t have to, you will be automatically enrolled for your next class.
Upcoming Classes:
5:30 Masters Agility
6:40 Beginning Agility
10:00 Fix and Go!
5:10 Masters Agility
6:20 Intermediate Agility
11:30 Full Course Work - Agility Scholar
7:30 Foundations of Agility 2
6:15 Foundations of Agility 3
5:00 Puppy Headstart
WAITLIST Foundations of Agility
A SPDTC Membership is required for all Agility classes. See course descriptions for specific Prerequisites. All classes are $205 for a 10 week block.
For questions or further information please contact us at agility@spdtc.com
Class descriptions
Agility Just for Fun
This class is focused for dogs not necessarily wanting to compete in agility but to have the enjoyment of running courses with their Handler on a regular basis. Courses will be similar to what other agility classes use without the focus on competition.
Prerequisites: Dogs must have previous experience on all agility obstacles. Dogs must be able to work full height contact obstacles. No reactive dogs.
Competition Agility Puppy
This class is designed for puppies looking to develop an early skill set that will advance them into future agility training. Class time and homework will prepare the puppy in agility basics and be motivational. Handlers should see confidence building in a safe and controlled learning environment. Puppies will be introduced to a variety of surfaces, motion exercises and scaled down agility equipment. Puppies will learn teamwork and build confidence through positive reinforcement.
Foundations
Get your dog introduced to the basics of agility obstacle performance. A great way to see if agility is for you! Build a solid agility foundation with your dog by working on attention, confidence builders, coordination, balance work, play and drive. The class will introduce ground level agility equipment and ground level to very low jumps. Targeting and clicker training will be emphasized.
Prerequisite: (2) levels of Basic Obedience Skills. Handlers must demonstrate the ability to control and work with their dogs off leash to enroll in this class.
Beginner
Beginner class builds upon the skills learned in Foundations II. The class includes continued instruction on the weaves, improvement upon handling skills, and increased distance and independence in handling.
Prerequisite: familiarity with basic handling, basic familiarity with all equipment
Intermediate
Intermediate classes provide instruction in more advanced handling techniques and more advanced sequences. Skills we work on include: crosses, threadles, serpentines, discriminations, and distance work.
Prerequisite: closed weave poles, understanding of basic handling, and proficiency with all equipment
Masters Agility
For the serious agility competitor, this class will focus on creating a winning team through learning advanced handling techniques and course strategy. Individual instructor feedback will be provided to each team. Full course nights occur periodically to allow practice in situation more similar to a trial setting.
Prerequisite: proficient at all equipment and all ground work.
Contacts and Weaves
Need speed in the weaves? Independent 2o/2o performance? Difficult weave entries? Driving ahead of the handler? Independent obstacle performance? Do you babysit your dog on contacts, in the weaves? This class is for you!
This class will focus on contacts and weaves in the context of course work. We will be working on fine tuning obstacle performance skills in the context of course work.
Prerequisite: ALL dogs MUST be able to perform full height contacts.
Note that not all classes are offered every block. Please email the director of agility if you are interested in learning more about a specific class