Dog Agility Training ‘Tips’ – Agility Ladder

@SullivanOlssen No the ladder is not used in agility trails, but it is used in training to teach the dogs to use their hind legs. Most dogs when they walk the hind legs just follow and they are not aware of the placement. An agility dog needs to have great control over the hind legs. I also teach my dogs to do the ladder going backwards so they have to start with the back legs and find the spot to put the paw. I also use it for strengthening the muscles and for crawling.

Is the ladder used in agility trials. I had never heard of it being used, but when I took River to an agility try they had one.

@jazzcollie That is a really old video and I was using nero editing program. Now I use imovie and there are just options to choose from and you drag them to the clip you want to put them on. imovie is just really easy, but it is a mac editing software. Have a great day, I hope that helps some.

How do you get text on your videos?

My pleasure! I enjoy helping people, because at the same time I am helping their dogs! Good luck! I would love it if you would post a video response once you finish or even of your process. TAKE CARE!!

Pamela,
Thanks, yet again, for replying so quickly and with just the info that I will need to make our own ladder. I have an aussie and so the spacing should be pretty similar. You’re so sweet to help so many people!

Thanks! Well, you can use just a regular ladder, but the problem with those you cant adjust them to teach the crawling. I used PVC and I believe that they are 12 inches in between. If you make it you will need a hand saw, miter box (not sure of spelling), i think 18 t-joints, and i used 3/4 inch Pvc, but you could use 1inch for a stronger ladder. I also made 3 different lengths for legs. Do not glue it so you can take it apart for storage. Hope that helps!

Awesome video! How did you make your ladder? Did you have to take into account your dogs stride, etc? I have a “cavaletti” dvd that is good, but this gives more ideas along with help in strengthening more muscles, I think. I’d love to make a ladder!

You can actually use a regular ladder. I made that one out of PVC. Have you done the front paws on the box exercise to get more rear end awareness. I think I have one from canisTV (however it is not in English, but you can get the idea) in my favorites. That is a good channel except it is not in English.

Oh, what a clever idea! Wish we could get similar ladders here – would love to try it out with Honey…more rear end awareness would definitely help our dancing!

Thank you!

AWSOME!!!=D