Agility
Fast, Fun & Full of Teamwork
Agility is a fast-moving, exciting, and energetic sport enjoyed by both dogs and handlers alike — and it is just as fun to watch as it is to participate in. Dogs work off leash while being guided through a course using their handler’s voice and body signals, navigating a variety of obstacles including jumps, tunnels, weave poles, teeter-totters, and contact equipment. The goal is to complete the course accurately and within the allotted time.
Open to all breeds and sizes, agility is designed so every dog has an equal opportunity to succeed, with jump heights and course requirements adjusted appropriately. Shelties are especially well known for excelling in agility due to their intelligence, speed, athleticism, and strong desire to work closely with their handlers
Why Agility Is Great For Shelties
Why Agility Is Great For Shelties
Why Agility Is Great For Shelties
Agility is an incredible outlet for both the mind and body. It helps dogs build confidence, improve focus, and develop stronger communication skills with their owners. For many handlers, agility becomes more than just a sport — it becomes a fun way to spend time with their dog while building a stronger partnership together.
Benefits of agility include:
- Physical exercise and conditioning
- Mental stimulation and problem solving
- Improved confidence and focus
- Stronger handler and dog teamwork
- Socialization for both dogs and owners
- Opportunities to meet other Sheltie enthusiasts
Whether your goal is recreational fun or competition, agility offers something for every dog and handler team.
Getting Started
Why Agility Is Great For Shelties
Why Agility Is Great For Shelties
Many teams begin agility by first building strong obedience and foundational handling skills. Young dogs can safely begin learning flatwork, body awareness, and confidence-building exercises before advancing to full obstacle work once physically mature.
The club encourages members of all experience levels to get involved, try classes, attend events, and enjoy learning alongside fellow Sheltie owners. Living in Alberta means we train year round, with many indoor opportunities during the winter months and outdoor training and events throughout the summer season.
CKC Agility Events
The Shetland Sheepdog is one of the most successful and recognizable breeds in CKC agility competition. Many club members actively compete in agility trials throughout Alberta and across Canada.
For those interested in getting started or following upcoming trials and events, listings can often be found through Canuck Dogs, which provides up-to-date information on dog shows and performance events across Canada.
