| Agility training is a continuous process. Introductory training focuses on safe and correct obstacle performance and fundamental handling skills. Begining dogs and handlers also work to build a foundation of trust, motivation and teamwork. Agility skills are developed incrementally to ensure success at each step and to maintain motivation. Dogs are often introduced to "baby" obstacles and progress gradually to competition versions. Experienced teams dog and handler teams continue working to refine their skills even as they progress through higher levels of competition.
Nearly all agility training uses positive reinforcement. Many trainers have adopted clicker training techniques and avoid demotivating their dogs with harsh and coercive methods. Choke collars and other "training" collars are not allowed in RAT agility classes or on the grounds of agility trials.
 Warning! Unsupervised agility training can lead to potentially dangerous situations, especially for puppies and young growing dogs. If you are interested in starting agility with your dog, PLEASE contact an experienced agility instructor!
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