Agility training for dogs is fun for both Bichons and their owners!
Dog agility clubs give you a chance to learn how to do dog agility training, exercise with your dog, and socialize with like-minded pet owners.
Plus using dog agility equipment, like a dog agility chute, gives your Bichon a great chance to work off some of that excess energy.
At first you might not think of a Bichon Frise as being a dog well suited to agility training.
Nonetheless, the seemingly boundless energy of this breed along with their desire to please their pack leader makes a great combination for success.
Agility training is also a very healthy outlet that can deter negative behaviors like nipping and chewing because your pup is getting adequate exercise and mental stimulation.
The basic concept of dog agility training boils down to teaching your dog how to navigate--what would be an obstacle course for a human (only smaller, obviously).
Your voice commands guide your Bichon through the various challenges.
Until your puppy is old enough to participate, you can play little games with her, that will help to prepare her for agility training. A Dog-Agility Starter Kit can help you decide if you and your dog will enjoy agility competitions.
As training progresses, your puppy will learn to take commands, while exercising his body and mind – which is great for a smart breed like this one.
Now it should be noted that not EVERY Bichon will enjoy agility training – this is where knowing your dog, and specifically your relationship with your dog is very important.
See how your puppy responds to training activities like fetching, jumping, and rolling over. If she seems happy and responsive, then your pup has potential for agility training.
It’s also important that you have time to invest in this process. You will need to train with your dog regularly, and this will involve a commitment of time.
Depending on the rules for courses in your area, your dog will need to be a certain age before he can work on the agility course. This is for your dog’s safety.
Getting Started
If you are very interested in dog agility training with your Bichon, then finding a dog agility club in your area will help you get started.
Club members can tell you about the equipment and rules of various competitions. Some agility games are more intensive than others – so again, be sensitive to your dog and what you KNOW he can and can’t do.
If agility training is a new sport for you, a copy of The Beginner's Guide to Dog Agility by Laurie Leach is a great way to become familiar with the sport. And it will give you lots of ideas to try with your dog.
Agility training for dogs can be a wonderful sport, for dog and owner alike. Bichon Frise breeds have been known to do very well in competitions, where previously you might have never seen such a small dog before.
Keep in mind that the endurance and speed challenges are hard for smaller breeds, but the challenges requiring flexibility and intelligence – that’s where they shine.
Most Bichons love learning new tricks and the on-going level of activity required for agility training will help keep your dog fit and trim (avoiding obesity).
Work on one maneuver at a time. Stay upbeat and loving.
