Agility is the fastest growing sport for dogs in the United States and is practiced around the world. Originating just over 20 years ago in Great Britain, it has expanded to include numerous national and international competitions and professional agility groups. It is essentially a timed course containing both moving and non-moving obstacles that a dog and handler must navigate as a team (with the dog going over/under/in the obstacles). Although this sport has evolved to include the highest levels of competition, it has become an activity with a wide appeal as a general recreational, non-competitive, activity for dog owners and their dogs. Agility is an all-inclusive activity, which dogs of all sizes, breeds, and skill-level can successfully participate in.
The benefits of agility training include: increased physical and mental activity for both dog and handler, expanded general dog-handling skills for owners, and improved general obedience and socialization skills of dogs, all of which help to create good canine citizens. Agility training has become extremely popular particularly among urbanized communities where space is limited, human-canine densities high, and the need for productive exercise great. A well-managed agility-training program can provide a safe, healthy, enjoyable activity for both dogs and owners.