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Before you enter a fun match or agility trial, it can be a good idea to attend one on your own, without your dog and watch what happens. Pay special attention to the Novice ring. If your dog doesn’t have a good grasp on commands, its best that you spend some more time on training. The majority of these events are held outdoors and many don’t have fenced competition areas. If your dog doesn’t immediately respond to the “Come” command, you could have a problem on your hands, so it is best to deal with that before it becomes an issue.

Contact the host organization beforehand for a copy of the official rules and regulations. Go through them carefully to make sure you are in compliance with all of them. It would be very disappointing to enter your first trial only be disqualified due to a technicality with a rule.

The best way to find agility trials and fun matches is to talk to a trainer or other people in your area who are involved in the sport. Your club will be a wealth of information and most of them have email announcements and information on their websites.

Trials and fun runs are long events that can last anywhere from eight to twelve hours. If your dog is competing, he or she will only be performing for about five minutes of that time, so you will need to have their pen or crate ready to keep them safe and relaxed. You will also need some sun protection of your own (a canopy-type tent is perfect) and a comfortable folding chair. It should go without saying that you will need a good supply of water (for both of you) and dog treats (you’d be surprised how many competitors forget them).

If you can, see if you are able to volunteer at the event as a pole setter. You’ll learn a lot of the tips and tricks of agility trials, and you’ll get to see the obstacles and courses up close. There will be a lot of information to learn, but don’t forget your dog. Make some time for you and your dog to relax, play a game and maybe meet some of the other dogs.

Keep a journal of all the agility runs you and your dog perform. Include your total points, any faults, and the times for the course. Make sure you keep track of whether it was a qualifying (”Q”) run. If possible, see if you can get a copy of the course map to keep. This will help you evaluate problem areas and determine what you and your dog need to work on.