hello everyone,
I have a 2 year old australian sheppard mix who absolutly loves chasing a ball, stick and swiming. I like to get her started in some kind of dog sport or agility but I don't know how or where to get started with her training.
We tried a frisbee but she lost interest after a while.

any ideas?
thanks for your time.

Luey and Fifi.

[Kingsbridge Cav]

There are some good books out on the subject. "101 dog tricks" is a great start as it gives some basic agility stuff coupled with basic training techniques and where to go back to if you get ahead of yourself.
If you aren't confident doing the training yourself, there are classes offered in some cities. try the internet to find certified trainers in your area or go to AKC.com to find some of theirs.
All dogs will get bored after time - well maybe not all dogs! I once knew a dog that would return a tennis ball 24/7 LOL. What I should have said is that you can expect al dogs to get bored at some time. Change is good. Try another "trick" and you may keep his interest longer! Agility is great training for those dogs who have a separation anxiety from their people, those with high energy levels and for those who have high intelligence and need a challenge.
I think you have chosen wisely!

thanks for your help. I will definatly look for that book.
My Fifi will chase a ball all day also, even after we go hiking for 2 hours she will still bring that tennis ball to play with.

[rayter]

You can download tons of ebooks on dog training from the internet. I recommend this ebook titled "Secrets To Becoming A Supertrainer." It's a good manual. It's a serious dog training tool for those who demand results.

you can mix the exercise, maybe sometimes you can challange with ball, frissbee, swimming, jogging,etc.

sometimes my dog play with tennis ball n basket ball

There are plenty of dog tricks around to choose from but starting off with your first puppy or dog and knowing which dog tricks are easy can be a bit of a challenge. If you have a puppy then training them will be a lot easier than an older dog because of the habits dogs fall into when they are brought up.

Older dogs will have different habits and a strong personality by then so they may find some advanced tricks easier than basic tricks because of the way they have been brought up.

Although the same as above can be true for puppies also, this is more likely to be because of the breed of dog you have and the different general personalities that go with them breeds.

In this article we assume you have taught your dog the basics or sit and stay etc and now you want to teach your dog a fun ‘show-off’ type trick to impress your friends or family when they visit. There are many tricks from bringing you the TV remote to riding a skateboard, but to start off I recommend something simple like the figure of eight around your legs.

This is similar to other commands you will have taught your dog and involves you using treats to encourage your dog to perform actions. To do this trick you simply have hold a treat in one hand and guide your dog through one side of your legs, through the middle then around to complete a figure of eight motion. Try to hold the treat close to your dog’s nose to keep them interested and always reward them with praise afterwards and the treat afterwards.

After you have mastered this and can get your dog to do it on command you’re ready for your next trick and one step closer to the skateboard. Good luck!

[Corky/Max]

10 Steps to Getting Started in Dog Agility Events
Expert advice to get started in dog agility events.
Annette Osterlund


1. Know the basics. Does your dog do a reliable Sit, Down, and Stay?

2. Socialize your dog. Make sure he is comfortable around other dogs and in crowded, noisy places.

3. Schedule enough time. You'll need time for classes and regular practice. Top competitors train every day, but trainers recommend you spend only 10 to 15 minutes per session.

4. Use positive rewards. Motivate your dog and keep his attention with treats, a toy, or praise. Many instructors discourage and often forbid harsh language and choke collars.

5. Find an instructor. Your obedience trainer or local humane society might teach agility or be able to direct you to someone who does. Local agility clubs can connect you with teachers. Find a club near you through the agility organizations listed below.

6. Observe a class. Different teachers have different techniques. Watch how they teach and decide if its right for you and your dog.

7. Attend some local agility events. Learn about trials, fun matches, and demonstrations by contacting your local breed club agility club.

8. Arrange access to equipment. Your dog will need to practice the different styles of jumps, tunnels, and contact obstacles. Many training facilities have drop-in times. You can even make your own inexpensive jumps with plastic pipes.

9. Learn more. The internet is a great source, and so is DOG FANCY magazine.

10. Be prepared to have fun. A positive attitude is everything in agility!

If you have an active breed like an aussie for example try getting them in a fly ball training or also find a local dog swimming class. That is usally good exersice for an active breed.
Thanks for your time,
7dogheaven Flyball Home Page: Logo Contest
NAFA CanAm Classic 2009

[fuzzycrow]

It's true that there are some very good books available on the subject of dog training. And as for me, I always want to try to do things myself first, before looking for help from a professional. There is also a lot of free info on the internet relating to dog training of all kinds. Just "Google" it and you should come up with a lot of resources. There is also a lot of dog training equipment available that includes instructions. Good luck.

dog agility equipment

[rlang]

If your dog likes balls and sticks then there are a some great sports for them. Flyball is great with the ball in mind and dock dogs is great with the sticks. This website has some great info and videos on each of those I mentioned.
www.americansportdog.com