11/08/2026
If you're going to your first agility show, here are some top tips for you.
Make sure you have been on the kennel club website and read the rules. There are a lot 🙈but it is important to know them. It can be the difference between winning and being eliminated. A lot of independent shows follow similar rules as do the UKA, but you will neee to check their rules also as these can vary..
Make sure your dog is registered with the kennel club or UKA if entering one of their shows. And make sure your dog is measured before your first class.
I prepare as much as possible the night before and pack the car up. You will need to take dog leads, coats both human and dog, towels, chairs, something to cover your car and crates from the sun, food and drink both human and dog, lots of treats for your dog and make sure it's, your dogs favourite ones , a good pair of running shoes, change of socks and other clothes if its wet, umbrella, waterproofs, money (trade stands are usually very good 🙈) and probably more things, please add them in the comments. You do need to pack for all weathers, we do live in England and weather is definitely unpredictable 😂
I try to arrive at 7.30am if my class is up first, or it's sometimes possible to I walk the course if it's set at a different height if the class before me has only a few dogs. . This gives me chance to let the dogs out for a wee, get them some water in their crate, pay for my entries (if I'm doing a latenUKA entry) and walk the course, which all has to be done before 8.30am when shows normally start if im up first.
Keep your eye on the rings, Agility Plaza and ears listening for the tannoys, it is your responsibility to make sure you don't miss walking the course or miss your class.
Try to go when it is your turn in the running order, especially if it's a big class to help keep queues down. Leave space for the dog in front or you.
When it is your turn, you can enter the ring when asked or the dog before you has leff the ring and has their collar and lead on. Someone will usually then take your lead from you (remember dogs must run in flat collars with no tags or harnesses) and you can head to the start line. The scrime (person in tent) will say your name and will tell you when you can start. Never go before the scrime and judge say you can. If it is kennel club you are not allowed toys or foor in your hand. Independent and UKA allow toys but not food if you say you are running NFC
Run round the course and play this great game that is agility with your dog. Have fun and always make sure your dog has a positive experience in the ring, even if it goes a bit pear shaped 😂
Collect your rosette and trophy if you did well, and take the best dog home with you
Please add your hints and tips in the comments below
