Onpoint Vizslas

In agility, a dog demonstrates its agile nature and versatility by following cues from the handler through a timed obstacle course of jumps, tunnels, weave poles and other objects. It's an activity that strengthens the bond between dog and handler and provides fun and exercise for both, which might explain why it's so enjoyable to watch and has become the fastest growing dog sport in the U.S. and Canada.

Training in agility can begin at a very early age. For puppies jumps should be kept very low and most of the training should consist of what is called flatwork. If you have some basic obedience started, agility training will go smoother. Have your puppy learn to walk/run along side of you and change directions when you do. Work both sides. You can also teach them to target your hand and a small circular target with their nose. Both of these skills will be the basis for advanced training and contact performance. A good solid stay will be useful for start-line stays and pause table performance. Training techniques in agility are constantly evolving as this is a new sport. Below are some references, terms and links to help with training your Vizsla.

Cleanrun -- No faults on the run
Fault -- Any mistake that costs points
Refusal -- The dog balks at the obstacle, or goes past the entry plane of the obstacle (5 pts -- closed fist)
Wrong Course -- Dog takes the wrong obstacle or obstacles (5 pts -- open hand)
Table fault -- Dog goes off the table prematurely (2pts -- two fingers)
Time fault -- Dog goes over time
Elimination Fault -- Dog fails to complete obstacle (NQ -- Both arms raised)
Standard Course Time -- The time allotted to complete the course

Agility consists of running your dog through a series of obstacles with the objective of performing each obstacle correctly, and completing the course in the allotted time. The number of obstacles increase with the level of the course. All courses have a basic set of obstacles which include:

Jumps -- high, spread, double, triple and tire, in different looks, quantities, and formats
Tunnels -- Open and collapsible
A-frame
Teeter
Dog walk
Pause table - Dog is asked to sit or down for a 5 second count
Tire
Weave Poles - usually 6 in the novice class, 6-12 in the open/intermediate class, 12 in the excellent class
The teeter, dog walk and A-frame have contact zones that the dog must touch. If they jump off these obstacles, they do not qualify. They must also clear all the jumps with out stepping on them, or knocking off any bars or slats.