"Shelties" or the Shetland Sheepdog is known for its agility. In fact, in dog agility competitions the breed is bound to present almost all the time. They are so popular nowadays that even rescue centers run out of Shelties for adoption.

Physically, these dogs look exactly like Collies but they are smaller compared to them. Their height measurement is usually 35-37cm. They usually weigh 6-7kgs. Considered responsive and intelligent, they react quickly to their owner’s requests. Shelties can be a bit guarded at times, especially when it comes to strangers but hardly will they ever be nervous. Their thick and long coat should be groomed regularly.

Agility training is one of the best ways to have fun with your dog and keep it healthy at the same time. Among all herding breeds, the Shetland Sheepdog ranks highest due to its intelligence, skillfulness and speed. Many owners who have given agility training to their dogs notice that they became more responsive to everyday commands. There are plenty of resources for dog owners who would like to provide agility training to their pets. Check your area for Shetland Sheepdog clubs or agility groups. They can give helpful information such as appropriate obstacles courses and rules that apply during competitions. Training might even be offered as well. It’s important to read up on the rules to ensure that your dog reaches its maximum potential.

Actual agility courses vary depending on the competition. Most of the basic ones include A-frames, hurdles, seesaws and tunnels made of cloth. There’s also an obstacle that makes use of a raised plank that is roughly four feet above ground. Criteria for differences include the region, club and ability of the breed. Your Sheltie will be tested on how fast and skilled it is in completing the course. Handlers are not allowed to use toys, treats, and other items for motivation. These are even grounds for disqualification. It’s best to do away with these items as soon as your dog learns the obstacles during the training phase. Judges will look at how proficient your dog is in the completion of each obstacle. Their overall performance also affects the score.

It can be intimidating for teams that are joining for the first time. Remember that everyone started in the beginner level. Also, there are many novice competitions out there. In each competition that your team joins, you benefit from watching more experienced handlers and other trainers. After several tries, a handler becomes more confident.

Shetland Sheepdogs are naturally athletic and intelligent. Their needs include having a good amount of mental and physical stimulation daily. Training a Sheltie for agility competitions is a good way of satisfying those needs. This is also a very loyal breed. Generally, most handlers do not experience much difficulty during these exercises because Shelties like pleasing their owners. Joining an agility competition is an ideal sport for a working breed like the Shetland Sheepdog and it can be a great exercise for the handler too.