After CGC: What's Next?
Agility

You've probably seen it on television. A dog running at a fast speed through a tunnel, jumping over a jump, and crossing the finish line as the crowd screams and cheers. Welcome to the exciting world of AKC Agility.

Agility is the fast-paced event where dogs race against the clock over an obstacle course that includes jumps, tunnels, weave poles, and other obstacles such as an A-frame, dog-walk, and chute.

In agility, the dog works off-lead and the owner and dog must communicate quickly as they move from one obstacle to the next. Jump heights are determined by a dog's height at the shoulder so dogs of any size can compete fairly in agility.

There are two types of agility courses, Standard, and Jumpers with Weaves. For each type of course, there are 3 primary levels of titles that can be earned: Novice (NA and NAJ), Open (OA and OAJ, and Excellent (AX and AXJ). Preferred Classes are the newest agility classes. Preferred Classes offer modifications with lower jump heights to accommodate all breeds of dogs as well as older dogs. The Preferred Classes are titling classes with Novice, Open, and Excellent levels in both standard and jumpers.

Beyond the regular titles, dogs can go on to earn the coveted Master Agility Champion (MACH) title that recognizes dogs that exhibit superior performance in the sport.

To get started in agility, an active, exciting and athletic event for your and your dog, contact the AKC Agility clubs in your area.