Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
Do dogs have to be purebred to compete?
Dogs do not have to be purebred to compete in agility or scent work. Mixed breeds are welcome and encouraged!
How do I register my dog?
To register your dog with AKC – visit this link
To register your dog with USDAA – visit this link
For other organizations, visit our About Us page and use the links at the bottom.
Agility Questions
What is Dog Agility?
Dog agility is a competitive sport in which a handler directs his dog over a timed obstacle course,
with scoring based on faults as in equestrian jumping events.
Because of its fast pace and simple, objective scoring system, dog agility has become an exciting spectator sport.
What obstacles are used in dog agility?
The typical obstacles used in dog agility are jumps, tunnels, weave poles and “contact obstacles” – the A-Frame, Dog Walk and Teeter.
Visit the AKC or USDAA rules on our About Us page for more specific information about obstacles.
How high will my dog have to jump?
Jump height for competition is determined by the dog’s height at the shoulder.
Competitors may choose to show their dogs at the next lowest height by choosing to compete in “preferred” or “performance”.
Dogs still earn the same titles, with the word Preferred or Performance added.
8 inches Regular or 4 inches Preferred/Performance – For dogs 11 inches and under
12 inches Regular or 8 inches Preferred/Performance – For dogs 14 inches and under
16 inches Regular or 12 inches Preferred/Performance – For dogs 18 inches and under
20 inches Regular or 16 inches Preferred/Performance – For dogs 22 inches and under
24 inches Regular or 20 inches Preferred/Performance – For dogs over 22 inches
How do I get started?
Contact Dog-On-It to inquire about classes or private lessons to help you get started, or visit our Training page for more information.
Scent Work Questions
What is Scent Work?
Scent work is a competitive dog sport in which dogs use their noses to detect and alert to specific scents, just like police detection dogs.
Dogs are trained to locate and alert to the scents of essential oils – Birch, Anise, Clove and Cypress.
Dogs are trained to search containers, buried elements, vehicles, and indoor and outdoor locations.
Can any dog compete in Scent Work?
YES! Even BLIND and/or DEAF dogs are allowed to compete in scent work!
All kinds of dogs, mixed breeds and purebreds – everyone is welcome and ALL dogs have a nose and know how to use it!
How do I get started?
Contact Dog-On-It to inquire about classes or private lessons to help you get started, or visit our Training page for more information.