News & Information: Training and Handling
Handling Under Pressure
How to Manage Your Thoughts When You Step to the Line
by News Editor | posted on May 12, 2026
Course Walk Prep: A Beginner's Guide
Getting the Most Out of Your Walk-Through
by News Editor | posted on May 10, 2026
Celebrate Improvement - Not Just Qs
In this fast-paced world, do we take the time to celebrate the wins that don’t come with a blue ribbon?
by Kaitlyn Rohr | posted on April 26, 2026
Introducing a New Puppy to Your Pack
Heather Venkat, DVM, shares her experience.
by News Editor | posted on April 5, 2026
Cynosport Judge Shares Puppy Advice
Meagan Skelton on picking a puppy
by News Editor | posted on April 3, 2026
New Year, New You - Progress Over Perfection
by Kari Massoth | posted on January 26, 2026
Why Foundations Matter at Every Level of Dog Agility
by News Editor | posted on January 20, 2026
Tips for Building Confidence in Puppies
Start with early socialization.
by Courtesy of Purina Pro Plan | posted on April 30, 2025
Ringside Chat with Breeder Marla Cooper
From puppy basics to lifelong partners
by Cheyenne Lord | posted on April 14, 2025
Boost Your Mental Agility Game
Tips to take your performance to the next level
by Kari Massoth | posted on February 25, 2025
Fitness Essentials for Handlers
Stabilizer muscles are key to balance and flexibility.
by Jenni Westerfeld | posted on February 25, 2025
Training Tuesday: My Mind, My Game
Creating a mindset for success
by Lonny Elson | posted on February 18, 2025
Ringside Chat with USDAA Judge Stephen Routh
Setting a positive example for yourself and others
by News Editor | posted on January 10, 2025
Deciding When to Retire Your Dog
Agility careers don't last forever.
by Betsie Bolger | posted on September 9, 2024
Training Tuesday: Training on Their Timeline
Two dogs on different paths to the same place
by Megan Foster and Sarah Stremming | posted on July 16, 2024
(Re)Training Weaves with Guides and 2x2s
Step-by-step guidance from the AgilityNerd
by Steve Schwarz | posted on June 25, 2024
Training Tuesday: Cross-training for Optimal Performance in Agility
Enhance your dog's strength and endurance.
by Purina.com | posted on June 11, 2024
Ringside Chat with Top-10 Competitor Carol Lemche
Top 10 rankings and the importance of fundamental skills
by News Editor | posted on May 8, 2024
Training Tuesday: Foundation Behaviors for Weave Pole Training
Learn the skills that can make weave pole training MUCH easier.
by Megan Foster | posted on May 7, 2024
Joining the Sport
Advice from international coach and puppy trainer Ann Braue
by News Editor | posted on April 23, 2024
Agility Top 10 Rankings Showcase Skills
Balancing fundamental skills and speed
by Ken Tatsch | posted on April 23, 2024
Finding the Right Puppy Takes Time
Ringside Chat with Crystal Blaker
by News Editor | posted on April 3, 2024
Rally Exercises of the Month -- April 2024
Exercise instructions and video demonstrations
by News Editor | posted on March 29, 2024
Ask the Trainer: Brenda Kelly
Training and preparing for international events and more
by News Editor | posted on March 19, 2024
Ask the Trainer: Team USA Gold Medalist Desiree Snelleman
How do you handle pressure as a defending Gold Medalist?
by News Editor | posted on March 5, 2024
Ask the Trainer: Team USA Gold Medalist Tawni Millet
How do you know when your young dog is ready for a higher level of competition?
by News Editor | posted on February 13, 2024
Connecting with Your Dog in Agility and Daily Life
How dog agility amplifies connection
by Susan Garrett | posted on February 6, 2024
Training Tuesday: 5 Ways to Increase Drive, Speed and Motivation in Sport Dogs
Understanding "reinforcement" and using it to your advantage
by Megan Foster | posted on January 23, 2024
Training Tuesday: Assessing Your Handling System
When and how to add new information and new tools
by Megan Foster | posted on November 28, 2023
Training Tuesday: Three Backyard Back Side and Threadle Practice Sequences
Tips from the AgilityNerd
by Steve Schwarz | posted on November 14, 2023
Training Tuesday: Proofing vs Generalizing in Dog Training
What if we changed our mindset from proofing to building confidence?
by Susan Garrett | posted on October 31, 2023
Training Tuesday: I Tried That, It Didn’t Work
The six words your training coach never wants to hear.
by Susan Garrett | posted on September 26, 2023
Training Tuesday: The Gift of the "Pre-Error"
The best time to respond to an error in training is before it occurs.
by Sarah Stremming | posted on September 12, 2023
Training Tuesday: Who Should Know Better?
Aligning your values in training and competition
by Megan Foster | posted on August 22, 2023
Training Tuesday: Four Jumps, Two Tunnels, Eight Sequences to Train All the Things
Setups, sequences and handling tips from AgilityNerd
by Steve Schwarz | posted on August 8, 2023
Training Tuesday: Overwhelm in Dog Training
How to take action on challenges
by Susan Garrett | posted on July 11, 2023
Training Tuesday: The Pitfalls of Cue Escalation
Be sure your dog is responding to the right cues.
by Megan Foster | posted on June 6, 2023
Training Tuesday: Your Dog, CEO
Don't forget who's really in charge.
by Sarah Stremming | posted on May 23, 2023
Baby Steps: Get to Know Your Puppy and Create a Good Training Foundation
An interview with Julie Daniels
by News Editor | posted on May 1, 2023
Ringside Chat with Alaska Breeder Donna Gates
Tips on selecting an agility partner
by Cheyenne Lord | posted on April 30, 2023
Welcoming a New Puppy to the Family
USDAA judges Skurzynski and Mahoney share their experience.
by Cheyenne Lord | posted on April 27, 2023
Ringside Chat with Starvale Goldens Breeder Peg Cobb
Advice on training, competing and selecting your next athletic partner
by Cheyenne Lord | posted on April 2, 2023
Stuart Mah’s Top Tips from Lifetime Achievement Success
Pioneer of Dog Agility shares essentials for success.
by News Editor | posted on March 20, 2023
Training Tuesday: When To Listen To Your Heart In Dog Training
Don't let old beliefs and habits hold you back.
by Susan Garrett | posted on February 14, 2023
Wellness Wednesday: Winter Safety for Dogs with Active Lifestyles
Six tips from expert veterinarian Dr. RuthAnn Lobos
by News Editor | posted on January 11, 2023
Training Tuesday: Does Generalization Really Matter?
For success in the ring, train your dog to transfer skills to different settings.
by Ann D. Smorado | posted on January 3, 2023
Training Tuesday: The Rhythm of Dog Training
How the structure of a session can help your dog succeed.
by Susan Garrett | posted on December 13, 2022
Training Tuesday: Dog Sports Are Team Sports
And why that matters to train and compete successfully in dog sports
by Sharon Carroll | posted on November 15, 2022
Training Tuesday: Fun, Challenging Medium-Sized Practice Courses
Sequences and tips from AgilityNerd
by Steve Schwarz | posted on November 8, 2022
Training Tuesday: Why Isn’t My Dog Learning What I’m Training?
The problem is often in the reinforcement process.
by Susan Garrett | posted on October 25, 2022
Training Tuesday: Is Your Dog Too Worked-up for Agility?
Learn the signs and solutions.
by Bad Dog Agility | posted on October 11, 2022
Spotlight on Senior Dogs: Britney Imhof and Bilbo
Meet "The Incredible Dog Bilbo."
by News Editor | posted on October 10, 2022
Spotlight on Senior Dogs: Heather Witt-Sullivan and Rowan
Dynamic duo brings home World Championship gold.
by News Editor | posted on October 10, 2022
Meet Cynosport-bound Lilo, a Deaf Rescue Turned Agility Dog
Running an atypical dog with optimism, patience and love
by Cheyenne Lord | posted on September 30, 2022
Training Tuesday: Small Space Jump Slice Sequences
AgilityNerd shares some setups and sequences you can practice.
by Steve Schwarz | posted on September 27, 2022
On the Road Essentials -- A First-Aid Kit
Be prepared for pet emergencies.
by Sponsored by Purina | posted on August 31, 2022
Training Tuesday: How Dog Training Goes Better When You Begin With the End in Mind
Create confidence and clarity for your dog.
by Susan Garrett | posted on August 30, 2022
Training Tuesday: Pinwheel Problems
Tips for handling one of the most classic jump sequences in agility
by Courtesy of Bad Dog Agility | posted on August 9, 2022
Training Tuesday: Ultimate Guide to Filling Dog Agility Tunnel Bags
Step-by-step instructions from "AgilityNerd"
by Steve Schwarz | posted on July 12, 2022
Competing as One: The Key to Equine and Canine Sports
Former professional equestrian uses knowledge of horses to improve dogs’ training.
by Cheyenne Lord | posted on June 28, 2022
Training Tuesday: Why Our Dogs Disengage
Tips to keep engagement high
by Liz Laidlaw | posted on June 7, 2022
Training Tuesday: Why Does My Dog Run Slower at the Trial?
Tips to help handlers work through some common issues.
by Courtesy of Bad Dog Agility | posted on May 10, 2022
Let’s Talk Training: Meet Susanne “Sam” Cohen
Bringing out the best between dog and handler
by News Editor | posted on May 8, 2022
Let's Talk Training: Jodi Kellar on Cross-Training Agility and Rally
Discover the benefits for both handlers and dogs.
by News Editor | posted on April 11, 2022
Training Tuesday: Is Frustration a Good Motivator?
Yes -- but only under certain conditions.
by Megan Foster | posted on April 5, 2022
Training Tuesday: The Timing of Verbal Cues
How verbal is your dog -- really?
by News Editor | posted on March 22, 2022
Let's Talk Training: Shaping Success with Susan Garrett
"Effective training is achieved simply by playing with your dog."
by News Editor | posted on March 15, 2022
Training Tuesday: Using Location-Specific Reward Markers
What they are, plus how and why you should use them
by Nicole Wiebusch | posted on March 8, 2022
Training Tuesday: Three Big Training Mistakes All Dog Owners Should Avoid
The same rules apply whether training for agility or another behavior.
by Susan Garrett | posted on March 1, 2022
Training Tuesday: Rear Cross Problems -- Video Analysis
Common rear cross problems and why they might be happening
by Megan Foster | posted on February 22, 2022
A Synchronized Dance Between Partners
Liz Dole, DVM, on conditioning and mindset for peak performance.
by News Editor | posted on February 16, 2022
Let’s Talk Training: Advice We Can’t Forget
Words of wisdom with a lasting impact.
by News Editor | posted on February 15, 2022
Training Tuesday: Strategies for Dogs That Shut Down or Get Distracted
Six tips to get your dog back on track.
by News Editor | posted on February 8, 2022
Training Tuesday: Raising a Performance Puppy
Trainer Barbara Currier shares advice on getting started.
by News Editor | posted on January 25, 2022
Boundless Junior Agility Camp Paves the Way for IDAA
Camp supports junior handlers through training and friendships.
by News Editor | posted on January 24, 2022
Wellness Wednesday: Handler Fitness and Agility
Structuring a fitness plan specifically for agility handlers
by News Editor | posted on January 19, 2022
Meet Trainer and Cynosport® Champion Brenda Kelly
New Series: Let's Talk Training!
by News Editor | posted on January 14, 2022
Training Tuesday: Drive and Motivation in Agility Dogs
Understand how your dog's innate "drive" motivates behavior.
by Megan Foster | posted on January 11, 2022
Meet WCRL Trainer and Judge Charlene Swainamer
New WCRL Series: Let's Talk Training!
by News Editor | posted on January 10, 2022
Training Tuesday: The Dog Training You Do When You’re Not Dog Training
A typical day in the life of one of Susan Garrett's dogs
by Susan Garrett | posted on January 4, 2022
Training Tuesday: Protect Your Dog's Confidence
How clarity builds confidence -- and more joy -- for your dog.
by Susan Garrett | posted on December 7, 2021
Training Tuesday: Why "Unlikely" Pet Owners May Be Perfect for Dog Sports
Dog sports starts with an appreciation for your dog.
by Julie Flanery | posted on November 30, 2021
Training Tuesday: Backyard Mastery -- All the Crosses
Build skill by trying different approaches to every cross on your course.
by Steve Schwarz | posted on November 16, 2021
Training Tuesday: Three Different Types of Verbal Markers in Dog Training
The marker you choose & how you use it can help or hurt your training.
by Susan Garrett | posted on November 2, 2021
Rally Training Tidbit: Halt, Sit
Watch a video to make sure you're doing it right.
by News Editor | posted on October 31, 2021
Training Tuesday: Jekyll and Hyde Contacts
Why some dogs have better contacts in training than in trials, and how to fix that.
by News Editor | posted on October 26, 2021
Training Tuesday: Steeplechase -- What's the Rush?
Try it -- for the challenge or just for fun.
by Stephanie Morgan | posted on October 19, 2021
Training Tuesday: Screw Up Cookies (Your Dog's Plan B)
When you "screw up," ask your dog for a simple behavior -- and reinforce that.
by Susan Garrett | posted on October 12, 2021
Training Tuesday: Timing on the Agility Course
Late again on your cues? Find out how to improve your timing.
by News Editor | posted on October 5, 2021
Training Tuesday: Is "Time" Related to Progress?
Time spent on training is not always a reliable predictor of success.
by Megan Foster | posted on September 28, 2021
Training Tuesday: Convinced to Win
Don't put off entering your first trial because you want it to be perfect!
by Kari Massoth | posted on September 21, 2021
Training Tuesday: Position Changes Out in Front -- Exploring the Sit
Teaching stand to sit, down to sit, sit in front and in heel
by Nicole Wiebusch | posted on September 14, 2021
Training Tuesday: Toning Up On Cue Clarity
Review your cues to ensure they are distinct and clear for your dog.
by Susan Garrett | posted on September 7, 2021
Training Tuesday: Strategy or Execution?
How to differentiate between the two and excel at both of them.
by News Editor | posted on August 31, 2021
Training Tuesday: Competition Dog Sports Etiquette
Awareness and control can ensure a successful event for all.
by Denise Fenzi | posted on July 27, 2021
Training Tuesday: Tommy's Terrible Teeter
Tips for tackling your teeter tribulations.
by Megan Foster | posted on July 20, 2021
Training Tuesday: Know the Signs for Higher Rally Scores
Don't lose points because of confusion or misunderstanding.
by Nicole Wiebusch | posted on July 13, 2021
Training Tuesday: Welcome the New Competitor
What it's like to be the new face in the crowd
by Stephanie Morgan | posted on June 29, 2021