can you recommend where i can get information on how i can train my dog to compete at an agility competition

Where abouts are you?

We are just starting out in agility at the moment with Bo. Firstly try and find a local club, there is a list on Agility Net ...

A - Z Clubs

It is very difficult to get into a club as we have found but there are lots of non-club training classes available. If you eventually want to compete in KC shows then you will need to register on the Activity register with the kennel club.

Activity Register - The Kennel Club

Your dog will also need to be measured at least once to see which catagory it should compete in.

Agility Measuring - The Kennel Club

and also you will need a record book

The Kennel Club

There is a beginners guide on the Kennel Club website which you can download

Dog Agility | The Kennel Club

Sorry for all the links but you might as well hear it from the horses mouth. I also have a section on my website about Agility if you click the link in my signature.

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Bo - Cocker Spaniel x Border Terrier
Badger - Cocker Spaniel x Lakeland Terrier

yes the best thing is to find a good club - where are you based? you will only need to join the activities register if your dog isn't registered with the Kennel Club. A goodclub will help you and your dog to safely learn how to do agility. Important starting points are to walk your dog on both your left and right, have a good recall, a sit and a down, to run off lead by your side on both your left and right, you can also, with a ball or treat teach them to go left and right and straight on (here the ball is a good idea when on a walk simply throw ahead of you and when your dog is happily running after say 'go go' or whatever you want to use. With left and right, encourage your dog to do a circle by you with a treat or toy and when the dog is happily doing this, start using your chosen left and right commands (personally I use back for left and right but it's up to you). It's also useful for your dog to 'stay' whilst you're running past (for contacts). You can progress with left and right by having your dog walking and then turning with you, away from you and also with your dog eg turning right, you turn left - both of you changing direction. All will be useful when you get going.

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Penny
Funfastquick Agility Dogs

If you want to compete under the other bodies, UKA for example, they have a different registration setup. Their rules and height categories are a bit different too.

The first step is to find a training class. It's cheaper to train with a club rather than with someone who runs classes for personal profit.