Dog Agility FAQs

What is dog agility?

Dog agility is a sport where a handler guides their dog through an obstacle course. Dog/handler teams are judged both for accuracy of execution and speed. Courses are designed for the level of experience of dog and handler, and teams compete in height categories based on the size of the dog. Obstacles can include a variety of jumps, contact obstacles, weave poles, and tunnels. A good way to find out more about dog agility is to go to an agility trial. Most participants are happy to talk to people (when they are not focusing on the competition), and you can see just how much fun you and your dog can have together. Check out the MAC events calendar to find one of our sponsored events, or visit our agility links page to find calendars of other agility events in our area and across the country. More information is also available at the dog agility article on wikipedia.

Who can participate in dog agility?

Anyone with a healthy, trained dog is eligible to participate in dog agility. There are several organizations that sponsor agility trials, and the specific rules for participation vary from group to group. See our agility links page to find a trial organization that’s right for you and your dog.

How do I get started?

MAC holds agility trials, but does not offer agility training classes. If you think you want to train your dog and get in on the fun, see our Agility Links page for information about clubs and training schools that offer a classes for competitors at all levels. Warning: Agility is tremendous fun, and you might find it addictive!

How do I volunteer at a MAC trial?

Go to the MAC events calendar and click on the link to email a volunteer coordinator for the show you are interested in. You’ll find more information on our volunteering page.

Contact MAC

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  • What’s New?

    The December 5-7 CPE trial is open for entries until November 25. Karl Johnson is judging at On the Run. Download the premium to mail in your entry or enter online at My Dog Entry. We are also looking for a chief course builder on Sunday. Contact Brandi Rogers if you are interested.

    Our MAC year-end banquet and member meeting will be held on January 18 at TCOTC. Look for communications about the year-end award starting in mid/late October and start organizing your titles now. The award period runs from Nov 1, 2024-Oct 31, 2025, but we will be collecting title information from you on Nov 1-14. If you’re interested in joining the banquet planning committee, contact Brandi Rogers.

    The Jan 31-Feb 1 UKI trial will be held at On the Run with Joel Basa judging. Entries are open from December 3, 2025 – January 21, 2026. Enter online at My Dog Entry

    The UKI Midwest Classic takes place May 22-24. Rosanne Wesemann will be judging at On the Run. Entries open in mid-February. Join the Facebook group for more updates.

    The May 30-31, 2026 USDAA trial at Animal Inn has openings for trial chair, hospitality, judge’s attache, awards & Supplies (locker), and chief course builder. Contact Julie Heller if you are interested in joining the committee.

    The July 4-5, 2026 NADAC trial at Rush World in Rochester has an opening for a trial chair and other positions. Contact the MAC Board if you are interested.

    Other trial committee openings are listed on our events calendar.

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