In an Agility Trial, the German Pinscher demonstrates its ability to complete a complex obstacle course for the best times.

The dog/handler team runs the course off lead completing the obstacles in sequence as mapped out by the judge. Agility demonstrates reliable temperament and intense teamwork between the German Pinscher and his handler.

Teamwork & Fun

Agility provides good basic training for search and rescue dogs, demonstrates good training and citizenship and has excellent spectator appeal. It is fun for the dog and the handler.

Some of the Obstacles used in agility include – A-Frame, Pause Table, Dog Walk, Open Tunnel, Seesaw, Closed Tunnel, Broad Jump, Panel Jump, Weave Poles, Double Bar Jump, Tire Jump or Window Jump as well as single and multiple Bar Jumps. German Pinschers excel in this sport due to their enthusiasm, athletic ability, and intelligence.

Dog agility is one of the fastest-growing dog sports in America, for good reason, it’s terrific fun, great mental and physical exercise, and an excellent way to enrich the dog-handler relationship. Havanese are energetic, playful, love to perform, eager to learn, and typically prolific jumpers, making them well-suited to the sport of agility.

Whether you aspire to compete at a national championship or just want to have fun with your dog, agility offers something for everyone.

The basis of agility is teaching your dog to jump, run through, climb, or weave around a series of obstacles, as quickly as possible, following a pre-determined course by relying on your cues, position, and body language.

There are many agility organizations at which you can compete, each with slightly different rules and slightly different styles:

Simple training equipment can be made at home and set up in your backyard for practice. It is always best to understand your dog’s physical abilities and stage of life before running your dog in agility; too young growth plates may still be open, and too old flexibility and joints may be less able to handle the rigors of agility—HCA recommends you discuss participation in this sport with your veterinarian before beginning.