Planning to begin agility training with your large dog? I’ve got you covered. I’ve trained dogs of all sizes, and I personally love agility training with larger breeds. So, here’s how you can start this fun activity with your dog. It’s easier than you think!
Understanding Big Dog Agility Training
Agility training for big dogs is one of the most exciting dog sports as it challenges larger dogs to run through agility courses with speed and accuracy. As a general rule of thumb from my experience working with dogs of all sizes, it’s an amazing way to bond with your dog. The benefits of big dog agility training include increased physical exercise mental stimulation and a stronger bond with you.
Training larger breeds for agility does present some unique challenges. Due to their size and weight, you must alter traditional agility equipment and training to ensure safety and proper form. Despite those challenges, many large dogs do very well in agility.
A few of the best large dog breeds for agility training include:
- Border Collies (on the larger side)
- German Shepherds
- Labrador Retrievers
- Golden Retrievers
- Standard Poodles
These breeds are often very intelligent, athletic, and eager to please, making them great candidates for agility training. However, any larger dog that is healthy and has the right attitude can learn agility and will also enjoy it. Some big fluffy dog breeds can also excel in agility training, combining their size with a playful nature.
Getting Started with Big Dog Agility Training
Before you begin agility training, evaluate your dog’s fitness and overall health. Always consult with your vet to ensure your larger dog is physically capable of agility. Additionally, start slow and gradually build up your dog’s endurance.
The main equipment you’ll need to set up a big dog agility course includes:
- Adjustable jumps
- Weave poles
- Tunnels
- A-frame
- Tire jump
- Pause table
Always prioritize safety in your agility setup. Use a spacious area with a non-slick surface and remove any potential obstacles or hazards. Ensure your larger dog has plenty of room to safely navigate the course.
Finally, keep training realistic to your dog’s abilities. It could take longer for your dog to learn agility. So, just have fun and don’t stress about making everything perfect as quickly as possible.
Fundamental Commands for Big Dog Agility Training
Solid obedience skills are the foundation of agility training. Your large dog should already know basic commands, such as sit, stay, come, and down. These commands allow you to keep them under control during high-energy agility activities.
Then you’ll teach them agility-specific commands. “Go,” “Over,” “Through,” and “Touch” are examples of commands you will likely teach your dog in agility. The key is to be consistent, using the same words and hand signals each time.
The most effective training methodology is positive reinforcement. Use treats, praise, or toys to reward your dog when they do what you ask. This creates a positive association with agility.
Use hand signals and body language in addition to verbal commands. Many large dogs respond well to visual cues. This is particularly useful for directing your dog at a distance on an agility course. While agility training differs from guard dog training, some of the basic obedience commands are similar.
Building a Strong Foundation
It’s important to build focus and attention in your big dog. To do this, start with basic exercises, such as “watch me” to teach your dog to make eye contact. Then, gradually add more distractions to strengthen focus and attention.
To improve body awareness and coordination, use balance exercises. You can have your dog step over low objects or teach them rear end awareness by training them to walk backwards.
Agility requires core strength, so a great way to build core strength in big dogs is to teach them to balance on unstable surfaces, such as cushions or balance discs. This is an excellent exercise to reduce injuries and improve performance.
When you first start training agility, use low impact equipment, such as ground poles or very small jumps. This will allow your big dog to learn the concept of navigating obstacles without straining their joints.
Adapting Agility Obstacles for Big Dogs
It’s important to modify jumps and hurdles for larger breeds. Make sure the jump heights are appropriate for your dog. A good rule of thumb is to use the top of your dog’s shoulders as a reference for the tallest jump they can handle.
Widen weave poles by spacing them further apart. Select just two poles at a wider distance and gradually increase the number of poles as your dog becomes more confident.
Scale tunnels and chutes to fit your dog’s size. Check that the tunnel isn’t too narrow for your large dog. Some agility organizations provide guidelines on equipment modifications for large breeds.
Adapt contact obstacles like the A-frame dog walk and seesaw. You may need to build these obstacles to be more sturdy with a wider base to support your dog. Always ensure these obstacles are safe to use when training.
Overcoming Size-Related Challenges in Big Dog Agility
Big dogs often struggle with agility around tight turns. You can correct this by practicing tight turns with Cavaletti poles or teaching your dog to wrap around a cone. Both of these exercises help improve your dog’s agility and body awareness.
To boost agility, also practice changing directions quickly. You can use toys or treats to encourage your dog to change directions rapidly between closely set objects. Start slowly and gradually increase your dog’s speed as they become more proficient.
Controlling your dog’s forward momentum is important in agility, especially for larger breeds. Train your dog to instantly respond to cues to slow down or stop. This prevents your dog from crashing into obstacles, and it also improves your general course control.
To handle narrow spaces, train body awareness. Teach your dog to tuck their back end and move laterally. This skill is essential for moving through narrow spaces in the course. Large dogs that don’t shed might have an advantage in agility training, as their coat is less likely to get caught on obstacles.
Advanced Big Dog Agility Training Techniques
As your dog masters more advanced obstacles, introduce more advanced sequences of obstacles. You can be with just two at a time, and make it slightly more challenging as you progress. This will test their ability to solve problems and help them gain confidence.
Teaching your dog to work away from you is essential for dog agility training courses. To build this skill, practice releasing your dog to obstacles from a distance.
The key to teaching your dog to run fast and independently through an agility course is to focus on smooth transitions from one obstacle to simply the next obstacle in the sequence.
Work in commands like left, right, and switch. These will be critical for directing your dog through more advanced agility sequences. Practice each command in isolation before using them in a full agility course.
Physical Conditioning for Big Dog Agility
Creating a well-rounded exercise regimen is important for larger dogs in agility. Incorporate agility training as well as other low-impact activities for general fitness.
Swimming is one of the best low-impact aerobic activities for large dogs. It’s a great way to build endurance without impact on their joints. Walking regularly on different surfaces also helps maintain general fitness.
Strength-based activities might include pulling or a controlled game of tug. Both build muscle and improve core strength. However, always closely monitor these activities to avoid injury.
Teach your dog the importance of warming up and cooling down. Before each session, have your dog do some gentle stretches and light activity. Afterward, finish with a cool down walk to eliminate muscle soreness and minimize the risk of injury.
Health and Safety Considerations for Big Dogs in Agility
Most common agility injuries in large breed dogs: Cruciate tears, shoulder strains, paw injuries. Watch for limping or any signs of discomfort while training.
Proper nutrition is essential for large active dogs. Consult with your vet to ensure your dog’s diet provides enough energy. They may need more protein or joint supplements. If you have a puppy, consider using large breed puppy food to support their growth and development.
Regular vet checkups: Schedule bi-annual visits to identify any problems early. Keep your dog current on vaccinations and preventatives to support overall health.
Learn to identify signs of fatigue or stress while training: Heavy panting, lots of drool, or refusing to go are all signs. Always stop training when your dog is still having fun and before they’re very tired.
Competing in Big Dog Agility Events
Most agility trials have classes for large dogs. These can range from novice to advanced, making it a great option for dogs of any skill level.
Understanding the height divisions in agility is important. Most organizations separate dogs into height divisions at the withers to create fair competition with dogs of a similar size.
There are a few key things to do to prepare for your first agility trial. In addition to training the actual obstacles, practice with your dog in different environments to help it learn to stay focused on you despite distractions. Also, introduce it to the atmosphere of a trial (to the best of your ability).
There are specific things you can do to set yourself and your dog up for success in a competition. Focus on remaining calm and confident. Your dog will feed off your energy, so just try to have fun and enjoy the process and reward your dog for its effort, no matter the outcome.
A Few Last Words
Agility training for big dogs is a fun experience for both you and your larger four-legged friend. It builds strength, enhances coordination, and strengthens your relationship. Just make sure to customize obstacles, consider safety, and advance at your dog’s comfort level. With some patience and regular practice, you’ll transform your big dog into an agility superstar. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of watching your large breed master courses. So pick up that leash and begin your agility journey today!
