I was hoping dog class would be canceled, because it's so cold

[Critters2]

But no call from the instructor yet. I paid for it. The beagle loves it. So I guess we're going. Dammit.

Later all....:scared:

[Beausoir]

1. I LOVED taking my dogs to school. So much fun,

Only, I used to have to do it in the middle of July...such heat and humidity. Cold is much better.

[Critters2]

2. The beagle loves it SO much!! She's a different dog in class,

so disciplined, so "on". I think all dogs need work to do, and this is hers. She's graduated from the advanced class, and is now doing rally training. I doubt we'll ever compete, because I'm not free weekends, but she could. And for a beagle to be competitive in obedience, well, that makes me proud.

But, again, we do it because she clearly loves it--loves the instructor, the other dogs (though there was a new dog, a German Shepherd, last night, that she wasn't too sure about), loves the work. So we go every Monday night.

[AllegroRondo]

3. what fun!

i've been thinking of trying agility training with my dog, hes got tons of energy and that would help him burn it off. how did you get started with it?

[Critters2]

4. We just started by going to basic obedience class.

When the beagle passed that, we went on to advanced. When she did well in the advanced class, we went into a class with dogs who were competing at obedience, rally, agility, etc. Our classes are offered by the local kennel club, an affiliate of the AKC. There's probably a kennel club in your area. If not, or if it doesn't offer classes, look for a private instructor, that is, one doing training on his/her own. Start with a basic class. Tell the instructor you're interested in agility work, and they'll work with you on the necessary skills.

The beagle does rally work. Rally is sort of like agility, in that the dog walks a set course, with tasks to do along the way. But unlike agility, most rally exercises are done in a heel position--that is, I'm at her side for all but a few exercises, with her either on a loose leash (I drape the leash over my neck, but don't hold it) or off leash. This works best for her, because, being a beagle, she's easily distracted by interesting smells, people, dogs, etc. She's more focused if I'm by her side, pays more attention to my commands.

She really does love it! So, I would encourage you to look into it for your dog!