Prior to entering yur dog in an agility trial or fun match, try and attend one on your own. This will enable you to see how the event is organized and what is required as an entrant. As this will be your first time, do ensure you visit the Novice ring. Is your dog up to the standard of the others? If not, then maybe it would be wise to spend some more time on training your dog on the commands required. The majority of dog trials are held in the open with no fenced areas. If your dog cannot respond to the basic “Come” command, that could cause problems. It is far better if you are confident of your dog’s obedience.
Before entering make sure that you get a copy of the official rules and regulations. Ensure that you understand and can comply with them. It would be a pity to find yourself disqualified from your first trial because you were unaware of a condition.
You can find out about agility trials and fun matches by talking to your dog trainer. Maybe there is a local club in your town or neighborhood where you could find out more. If they have a website there will be announcements made, maybe even join an online forum and gleam more information.
Trials and fun runs are long events that can last anywhere from eight to twelve hours. If your dog is competing, he or she will only be performing for about five minutes of that time, so you will need to have their pen or crate ready to keep them safe and relaxed. You will also need some sun protection of your own (a canopy-type tent is perfect) and a comfortable folding chair. It should go without saying that you will need a good supply of water (for both of you) and dog treats (you’d be surprised how many competitors forget them).
If you can, see if you are able to volunteer at the event as a pole setter. You’ll learn a lot of the tips and tricks of agility trials, and you’ll get to see the obstacles and courses up close. There will be a lot of information to learn, but don’t forget your dog. Make some time for you and your dog to relax, play a game and maybe meet some of the other dogs.
Keep a journal of all the agility runs you and your dog perform. Include your total points, any faults, and the times for the course. Make sure you keep track of whether it was a qualifying run. If possible, see if you can get a copy of the course map to keep. This will help you evaluate problem areas and determine what you and your dog need to work on.
Posted on 2008 under Dog Breeds, Dog Training |
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Jun
When looking for a hypoallergenic dog, you will have to decide on a breed of dog and also how the dog will fit into your lifestyle. Many hypoallergenic dogs are small or medium breed dogs. This means that they are small sized or medium sized dogs that require more attention than larger breeds. Hypoallergenic dogs may cause you to have fewer allergy attacks because their hair does not shed, they don’t have an undercoat, or they do not shed a lot dead skin cells, or dander. The following breeds of hypoallergenic dogs are popular with those who suffer from allergies: Irish Water Spaniel, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, and Bedlington Terrier.
The Irish Water Spaniel
For those looking for a hypoallergenic dog that is larger than other breeds, the Irish Water Spaniel may be the dog for you. These dogs have very short human-like hair that will prevent shedding and allergens from entering the air. The coats of these dogs must be maintained through grooming every two months. The Irish Water Spaniel is a friendly dog that likes to exercise and swim during the warmer months of the year.
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is available in four varieties, the Traditional Irish, Heavy Irish, English, and American. The main difference is the size of the dog. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has a short coat that does not shed much during the day. The dogs will need to be groomed as often as other hypoallergenic breeds in order to prevent clumping or rashes on their skin.
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier enjoys getting their exercise and they want to be around people as much as possible. The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is very friendly and will always welcome strangers. If you are in need of a hypoallergenic dog that is a little larger than most, then this is a dog worth considering. Having a backyard is a must as this dog loves to run and bark. These dogs should not be kept in an apartment.
The Bedlington Terriers
The Bedlington Terriers will need to be groomed every three or four months in order to maintain a healthy coat. These dogs are energetic and enjoy exercise. For those who are hypoallergenic and who live in apartment buildings or small homes, this dog is perfect. Bedlington Terriers are smaller than the Irish Water Spaniel and Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, but they have short coats which also need to be brushed a few times a week to prevent tangling.
Hypoallergenic dogs require more grooming than other breeds because they do not shed most of their hair, it just continues to grow. Not grooming regularly will cause matting, which will have to be cut from the coat in order to prevent skin rashes and other problems. These breeds of hypoallergenic dog are not the only ones you have to choose from. There are other varieties that may appeal to your lifestyle and allergy issues. Smaller dogs are better for apartment living as they tend to bark less and require less room to move around in. If you own or rent a home, then you may want to consider a larger breed that will be able to run around in the back yard.
