There are more dog sports and activities than ever to choose from, so whatever you and your dog enjoy, you can find an activity to suit you both. Julie Hill reports.

All sorts of dogs can enjoy agility — give it a try.

Whether you want to have fun, you’re looking to get competitive, or your dog needs more mental stimulation, there’s a dog sport for you.

Lee Gibson competes, trains, judges, and lectures in agility.

AGILITY

“Agility is all about teamwork between the dog and handler, as they negotiate an obstacle course,” explained Lee Gibson, who’s based in Shrewsbury, Shropshire, and competes, trains, judges, and lectures internationally.

Lee helps students build their bond with their dog, as they tackle different pieces of equipment.

“They develop both verbal and physical cues to be able to communicate at high speed, involving different manoeuvres, and different route choices. It’s a physical and mental workout for dog and owner,” said Lee.

“It’s a sport for everybody, and the cool thing about agility is it’s also for people of all ages. I started as an 11-year-old boy.

“It’s a very accessible sport and everybody is on an even playing field. People with mobility issues and those in wheelchairs can compete really well, working on distance control.”

TAKING PART

Lucy Creek competes with Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla Maple, Beagle Echo, and Border Collie Jingle.

Lucy Creek, from Stratfordupon-Avon, Warwickshire, recently started competing in agility with her dogs. “I’ve found it relatively easy to do, but almost impossible to do well!” she confessed.