Bella Vista Agility Class Descriptions

Level 1: Introduction to Agility
This class is for dogs and handlers that are new to the sport of agility. This course teaches the team the correct and safest ways to complete all obstacles. Training tools such as the plank and wobble board will be used to develop confidence prior to the introduction of contact obstacles. Guides will be used on the weave poles to ensure success and to begin to develop muscle memory for this obstacle. Due to the wide range of skills required to be learned at this level, most dogs need to repeat this session at least once.


Level 2: Beginner Agility
To participate in this class, the dogs must be able to do a dog walk and an A-frame at full competition height. Seesaw and weave pole skills will be stressed. Handlers will be taught a variety of handling techniques including: lead outs, front crosses, rear crosses and beginning send skills. Dogs must be able to work off leash with other dogs in attendance. Teams will remain in Level 2 until the dog and handler have demonstrated a working understanding of these skills.


Level 2: Weave Poles
This specialized class is designed to teach the dogs the skills needed to independently complete the weave poles. Exercises will work on entry, speed and exit skills. A variety of guides and methods will be used to find the best technique for each individual dog and handler team. Dogs must be able to work off leash with other dogs in attendance. Dogs at all levels that need weave pole improvement are invited to participate. Teams may participate in this session in conjunction with other levels of agility classes.


Level 2: Beginner Distance
Distance is an important skill in agility, especially for the team with a fast dog. This class introduces the concept of distance on contacts and with tunnels and jumps. Distance drills also will be applied to the weave pole performance. To participate in this class, the dogs must be able to do a dog walk and an A-frame at full competition height. Dogs must be able to work off leash with other dogs in attendance. Teams may participate in this session in conjunction with other levels of agility classes.


Level 3: Intermediate Agility
Teams attending this level of class should be preparing for, or competing in, entry level agility competition. Dogs need to be able to complete the weave poles with limited assistance to be successful in this level class. Sequencing and course work will be stressed. To participate in this class, the dogs must be able to do the dog walk, seesaw and A-frame at full competition height. Dogs must be able to work off leash with their handler while other dogs are also working off leash in the agility class.


Level 4: Advanced Agility
This course is designed for teams that are competing at the open level or higher of agility. Courses and exercises will be conducted at an increasingly difficult level and the coursework will provide an opportunity for the team to refine all of the skills taught in the previous levels.