There are two sides of agility training for dogs. They are obstacles and control training. There are also tips for training your dog.

Obstacles. Although it seems high to many handlers, A-frame is best obstacle to begin training. The dog walk plank, low jump and tunnel (dogs love this obstacle) are also excellent for training novice dog.

Control training is important to keep your dog disciplined both on agility course and off. Everybody knows that a dog must heel and sit. You must also teach your dog to know and obey different commands: to go left and right, lay down, and wait. After those are mastered, dog must learn normal recall (returning anytime you call) and recall over obstacles. Also important is “send away” command, making dog go ahead you.

Tips for Dog Agility Training

Begin training by getting your dog’s attention. Talk to him and offer a small treat. Coupled with love he has for you, he’ll be all ears. Be sure you have correct lead (generally 6 feet) and a comfortable collar (measure dog’s neck and add 2 inches) for your dog. Give praise often. “Tune in” to your dog to be sure she and you are ready to train.

Here’s a final tip: make sure that you and your dog enjoy yourselves. After all, jumping through hoops is supposed to be fun--at least if you're a dog.

About the author: You can read more of Joel Walsh's articles on dog issues such as Dog Agility at: http://www.i-love-dogs.com

Dog Health Treatment Advances

Veterinarians now do amazing things for our dogs. Here are a few of most impressive advances in veterinary treatment for dogs:

Chemotherapy to treat cancer in dogs Pacemakers for dog heart problems Drugs that cure or control dog diseases like diabetes or epilepsy

Improved convenience

Veterinarians today generally have at least 8 years of education added to their deep love of animals.

They combine skills of a surgeon, anesthesiologist, radiologist, dietitian and much more.

Veterinary hospitals or clinics are well-staffed and well-equipped medical centers where all breeds of dogs, as well as other animals, are treated, often in one day, for an enormous variety of conditions.

Clearly, dog health care is better today that ever before. Your dog’s veterinarian is his health advocate and your ally. Next time you visit your veterinarian, ask about new advances that might be help your dog live better.

About the author: You can read more of Joel Walsh's articles on dog issues such as Dog Health Care at: http://www.i-love-dogs.com