Went to observe an advanced (very advanced) agility class last night taught by a local, very experienced, agility instructor. She has fit more agility equipment on one acre than I have ever seen before! I was very impressed. I had to keep reminding myself that these were older, very experienced dogs. An owner would put a dog in a down stay and the dog would happily assume that position forever if that's what the owner desired! Most of these dogs have advanced together from rookies in agility and most have earned champion status in the sport! My Dakota--goodness--would be making passes at all the lady dogs--not that he could follow-through!!--and challenging all of the guy dogs to a game of keep-away!
However, I do believe it is the right time to advance him into agility. He, like most doodles, has the personality and the drive which is what it takes. The instructor told me stories about some of the dogs she instructed. One was an excellent agility dog (don't recall the breed) but could not compete because it was afraid of crowds and afraid of the judges. I think you would agree that most of our doodles are hamburgers and have little or no fear! Another dog she taught--or tried to teach--was a standard poodle that would not take any commands from its owner. Only wanted to play catch-me-if-you-can. After 8 weeks she told the owner that without further obedience training, agility was a waste of time and money. Dakota is very bull headed but will take instruction. This would be especially true in agility because I am so sure that he would simply love it.
So bottom line, despite my husband's reluctance (he believes Dakota is too young--I believe he doesn't want to see his "little boy" grow up) I'm going to start Dakota in private agility lessons until a semi private beginners class becomes available. I am very excited to be pursuing this sport with, what I believe, is a very capable dog!! Don't know when a private class will be available but I told the instructor that another couple of months wait would be ok and allow me further time to work with obedience. Cross your body parts for us!
Diane and Dakota
However, I do believe it is the right time to advance him into agility. He, like most doodles, has the personality and the drive which is what it takes. The instructor told me stories about some of the dogs she instructed. One was an excellent agility dog (don't recall the breed) but could not compete because it was afraid of crowds and afraid of the judges. I think you would agree that most of our doodles are hamburgers and have little or no fear! Another dog she taught--or tried to teach--was a standard poodle that would not take any commands from its owner. Only wanted to play catch-me-if-you-can. After 8 weeks she told the owner that without further obedience training, agility was a waste of time and money. Dakota is very bull headed but will take instruction. This would be especially true in agility because I am so sure that he would simply love it.
So bottom line, despite my husband's reluctance (he believes Dakota is too young--I believe he doesn't want to see his "little boy" grow up) I'm going to start Dakota in private agility lessons until a semi private beginners class becomes available. I am very excited to be pursuing this sport with, what I believe, is a very capable dog!! Don't know when a private class will be available but I told the instructor that another couple of months wait would be ok and allow me further time to work with obedience. Cross your body parts for us!
Diane and Dakota
Where did you go to watch? I assume it was in Sacramento. I would be curious to go see it.
