Thinking Aloud Allowed

It can be very easy to make assumptions about why somebody hasn't turned up for their run, and not 'bothered' to withdraw on Plaza or whatever system is being used. But you can't possibly know what's going on for that person - a family emergency, car accident, lack of knowledge or anything else. Try to believe that if they could have withdrawn, they would have. Be kind.

On that point, if you're going to speak to someone right after they've run, at least try to be positive first! Don't go straight in with 'shame about that pole' or similar. That could have been the best run they've ever had, and you've honed in on the ONE thing that went wrong. Just don't.

Congratulate a random stranger. Or someone you've just seen in the queue a few times. It'll make them feel good, and it will make you feel good. It doesn't have to have been a clear round, but maybe they hit a stunning weave entry or a managed a trick threadle. Let's pay it forward - maybe they'll say something nice to somebody else, and suddenly our agility shows are an even better place to be 😁

Praise your dog. Every. Single. Time. It is HIGHLY unlikely that your run going south is their fault. You might want to think it was, but trust me it wasn't. Watch the video. Your cue was late, your feet were facing the wrong way or you said the wrong thing. Or all three😂 Your dog is doing the best they can, acknowledge that always 💕

Help on the rings if you can - there are some really simple jobs, it's a great way to meet new people (if you're into that sort of thing 🫣) and you can watch lots of different dogs run. Plus you'll earn gratitude, get to feel a bit smug and maybe snag some sweets 😉

Thank the judge. You can thank them during course walking, before you run or at the end of your run. Whatever works, but they'll appreciate you thanking them 👍 If you're not keen on the course? Thank them anyway, and don't moan about it publicly on social media - we need to support our judges, not knock them down! See above - they're doing their best. Be kind, give grace. Not every course is designed with YOU in mind, sorry.

Don't take and share screenshots of official photographers images. Most of their terms prohibit that - if people keep doing it, they'll stop taking all the fabulous photos! If you can afford to, support them by buying a photo or two.

Just remember - all we're doing is asking our dogs to jump over sticks in a field, with the hope of winning a bit of ribbon. It's not life and death. Please don't treat it like it is. Take a deep breath and move on to the next thing.

Be Kind
From Ann Harmes

This has been a 'thing' for me for a long time, but I feel the need to say it out loud.

Why has 'dropping your dog' with a 'lie down' angry voice become a 'thing'? It’s horrible!

It's become normalised now, to the extent that Juniors are doing it, including the angry voice! And often followed by a grumpy stomp out of the ring!

It's a very different scenario to resetting your dogs' brain mid-run which is absolutely necessary sometimes and bollocking your dog for touching a pole, missing a contact or just blaming it for your mis-communications?

Correction is an art. Most people are waaay off the mark with timing and precision, not to mention whose fault the mis-communication was?

Dogs that slink and flank when this happens are telling us that a) they don’t like it and b) they are experiencing it way too often!

Show Ring Etiquette
Slightly amended for agility
Anon

Thoughts on Para-Agility
From Lisa Jordan

Dog agility is often seen as a fast-paced, high-energy sport, dogs flying over jumps, weaving through poles, and racing against the clock.

At first glance, it might look like something reserved for the physically elite. But step closer into the agility community, and you'll find something far more powerful: a sport built on partnership, adaptability, and inclusion.

At its heart, dog agility isn't about perfection of the handler's body, it's about connection between human and dog. That connection transcends physical ability, and it's exactly why the sport has become a space where people of all abilities can thrive.

For wheelchair users, agility becomes a beautiful example of teamwork redefined. Courses may be navigated differently, handling styles adapted, and cues refined, but the essence remains unchanged.

The dog learns to read movement, voice and subtle signals, while the handler develops precise timing and communication. What emerges isn't limitation, but innovation.

Handlers with partial sight bring a different kind of awareness to the course. They rely more heavily on spatial memory, sound, and trust in their dog. Their runs are a testament to the depth of training and the strength of the bond they've built. Every successful round reflects not just skill, but immense mutual confidence.

Those using prosthetic limbs demonstrate resilience in motion. Agility demands balance, coordination, and endurance, but it also rewards determination. These handlers often develop unique techniques that work for their bodies, proving that there is no single 'correct' way to run a course. Their presence challenges assumptions and expands what others believe is possible.

For individuals with hearing loss, agility becomes a largely visual and tactile dialogue. Dogs are trained to respond to body language, hand signals, and eye contact. In many ways, this creates an even sharper level of communication, one that strips away noise and focuses on clarity and intention.

Hidden disabilities, chronic pain, fatigue, neurological conditions and more, are perhaps the least visible but no less significant. These handlers often manage their energy carefully, adapting training schedules and competition strategies to suit their needs. Their commitment is profound, because every run represents not just effort, but careful planning and perseverance.

For those with cognitive or mental impairments, agility can be transformative. The structure, routine, and partnership offer confidence, focus, and a sense of achievement. The dog becomes both team-mate and support system, helping to navigate not just the course, but the wider challenges of participation and competition.

What unites all of these experiences is the extraordinary amount of work behind the scenes. Inclusive agility doesn't happen by accident. It takes hours of thoughtful training, creative problem-solving, and unwavering dedication. Handlers adapt techniques, dogs learn new ways of responding, and together they build systems that allow them to stand on the same start line as able-bodied competitors.

And that's the true beauty of agility, it doesn't separate; it integrates. On the course, everyone runs the same obstacles, faces the same challenges, and celebrates the same victories.

Differences don't disappear, but they are respected, accommodated, and ultimately woven into the fabric of the sport.

Inclusive dog agility is not about lowering standards. It's about expanding them, broadening our understanding of what skill, partnership, and success really look like. It's about recognizing that excellence comes in many forms, and that determination, creativity, and connection are just as important as speed.

Every handler who steps onto the course with a disability carries a story of effort that often goes unseen. They are not just competing, they are redefining possibility. And in doing so, they make the sport richer, more compassionate, and more inspiring for everyone involved.

Because in the end, agility isn't about how you run, it's about how you and your dog run together.

Thoughts on Judging
From Neil Ellis

People often misunderstand and think that the number of years you have been doing something counts as experience and trumps all other personal attributes or abilities.

But what happens if all those years building 'experience' were spent doing things the same way? I was once told it counts for nothing - a simple question with such a powerful but important answer.

Today I mark the start of my 19th year - and 9th internationally - as an agility judge with a whistle stop trip to France.

Whilst some of my judging ambitions have shifted, other desires and motivations are unchanged and I'm excited for another year of growth, challenges and most of all, developing another year of experience, of learning and understanding.

The Believe Credo
From Ernesto 'Neto' Hurtado, Agility Coach

Belief is something I don't think we talk about enough in our sport, and yet it shapes everything - the process, the partnership and the joy our dogs bring to the field.

Believing means stepping onto the field knowing mistakes may happen - and running anyway.

I don't run to control my dog.
I run to trust my dog.
I trust the work we've done.
I trust the bond we've built day by day.
I trust that, no matter what happens, we'll leave the field together.
The result is not always in my control.
My attitude is
As long as my dog enters the field with joy,
As long as they look at me searching for play, not permission.
We've already won something important.
Because Agility isn't just about speed or podiums.
It's about belief.
Belief in the process.
Belief in the team.
Belief even when we don't know how the run will end.
And that, is enough to run.

2025

A Request for Equal Representation
From Ronnie McAleese

About 20 years ago around this time, I was fortunate enough to win a place on the first Team GB to compete at the World Championships which were held that year in Valladolid, Spain.

In truth, it was one of the most incredible and fulfilling experiences of my life, and I am eternally grateful to Steve Croxford who did a great job in managing the team. I am truly thankful for the opportunities that were open to me!

That said, as I sit here in my office in Northern Ireland on this rather depressing autumn morning, the thought that won't go away is my disappointment that, because of changes in the team selection process, the chances of anyone from Northern Ireland making the team again are very slim.

I would respectfully ask the KC and those insider / influencers to look at things again and try to put in place a system which takes account of the difficulties posed by our geographical positioning.

In short, I believe that everyone within the UK should be on a level playing field when it comes to aspiring for the honour of representing their country.

Photo: Dave Midgley

Matrix Muddle
From Helen Dyke

Elsie: So why was my clear round win not a clear round win? Was I the fastest dog with no faults on the day?

Helen: Yes Elsie, you were.

Elsie: Did I take home a winning rosette and trophy?Helen: Yes Elsie you did.

Elsie: So I'm awesome, yes ?

Helen: Yes Elsie, you are awesome and yes, you won, but you're not fast enough any more for progression as far as KC are concerned.

Elsie: But I was Mum... so what has changed?

Helen: Because some well-intentioned people decided that course times needed changing.

The reality is that unfortunately there are some fundamental issues with the calculations particularly for longer courses and for some reason Intermediate dogs have the least time of all heights.

I genuinely hope the KC listen to the submissions of concern that many of us at grass roots level with steadier or perhaps not usual agility breeds have submitted to our Agility Liaison Council representatives.

I'm well aware of my 'place' in the agility world. I adore my Whippets and love agility. I will never be a top handler. I will never have 'top dogs' but I put in a huge amount of time and effort, invest in training courses and equipment. My dogs have regular physio, hydro, massage and McTimoney. I enjoy training with elite handlers and yes, I like to be competitive. I contribute a huge amount financially to the hobby that I love.

I have fit, trained Whippets with skills, but they are and will always be Whippets.

My goal for Elsie was to win up to Grade 4 and then to concentrate on obtaining her Gold Warrant.

An injury stopped the fun for most of this year but, on her return, she's running well and confidently and having fun. I can't ask for more than that and I won't push her to the point where it's not fun to eek out a few seconds. Where is the joy in that...

Since the changes in course times, she has had two Agility wins with 1.2 and 2.4 time faults respectively on courses of 211m and 185m and a Jumping win together with other places. She should have her Silver warrant and be well on her way to Gold.

At the last two shows, at presentation, both lovely judges have said to me that was an awesome run, then 'it was in course time wasn't it.' Genuine shock when I said no they weren't.

Less than three months ago she'd have received the progression she deserves.

Why can't we adopt the European method of course times which is based on the fastest clear dog on the day with a percentage increase. A fair reflection of the course, the weather, the surface and the equipment.

So as of today I've graded Elsie up to Grade 4 on the basis of the many points she does have and just hope they aren't the last she'll get.

Congratulations my awesome Elsie. May you deserve it but unfortunately instead of celebrating your mum just feels a bit sad.

Good Bye Agility
From Hils Jubert

It all began seven years with Jenny Hastie in a group class in Cowfold when Ziggy and I were newbies.

Ziggy was a natural. I found it hard, especially learning the courses. We finally did our first show at Cranleigh in the summer of 2021 when Ziggy was four and I was 67. Sophie Fry at Blue Spark brought out the best in both of us.

I had hoped to have a final summer of shows this year, but it was not to be. We made G4 with some awesome runs and some awful runs along the way.

What do I miss? - The challenge of a new sport, the partnership with my dog, all the training, and the winning. I am so proud of what we achieved in a short time.

What don't I miss? - The 5am starts, waiting two hours for the last class of the day, learning multiple courses and classes of 100 dogs.

Ziggy is retired with arthritic changes, aged 8. I am 71. Agility filled a huge space in my life after my husband died in 2018. Thank you to all the judges and ring helpers.

I miss it all so much.

The Forecast is HOT
From Moira Bowden

Shows will go ahead at the weekend.

Organisers will make the best decisions to keep things running in the best interests of competitors and their dogs. They are doing everything they can under extreme conditions. They will advise us of early starts if applicable.

Competitors need to make their own decisions whether or not to run their dogs. It is their responsibility to keep their dogs cool and comfortable if they decide to attend.

That's it in a nutshell.

It's Not Easy being a Show Secretary
By Jan Linch - Frittenden Show Secretary

I just wanted you all to know that I have spent weeks, months and most of my time organising this show along with our committee. We aim to make the show go perfectly, and we understand that we cannot please everyone!

For those people, we can only apologise to. We always welcome criticism, but please give a little thought before putting it on social media.

Red Socks
By Sally Jones

I had a brainwave and it proved to be popular. I judge Snooker a few times a year, and I understand the challenge of finding the red jumps amongst the sea of matchy-matchy equipment. So I decided to buy something to mark the jumps - red socks.

I bought a pack of six pairs online and used them to dress both wings of the red jumps. Later that day they were also used for a team Jumping relay where there were two separate courses in the ring.

Sod's Law dictates that the next time I judge Snooker, all of my equipment will be red...

My Mindset and Attitude Shift
By Ruth Hawkesford

I used to get worried, feel nervous, and think I could never do my dogs justice. I put myself under huge pressure so then when things went wrong, I use to say to myself 'I told you so!'

Am I like this in my corporate day job, presenting to Senior Leadership Teams, 10s-100s of people - absolutely not!

Q. So why do I put myself under pressure in an agility ring?

A. It's because I don't want to fail the things I love the most - my dogs!

Q. Do they know they've gone wrong?

A. Probably not, unless I make a big deal of it!

Q. Does it matter?

A. In the grand scheme of things - no.

But what does matter is that it must always be fun! It's a short time in the ring, many hours of practice, travelling, fitness, money etc. but I'm in that ring with my partner, my dog, the one who's doing it for me. My dog is always a winner, whether eliminated or faulted.

We ran in the pouring rain! But my face says it all, and Dorothy's tail never stopped…

What Else Could Go Wrong
By Brenda Vanner

Today was possibly one of those times when I should have rolled over and stayed in bed. The alarm didn't wake me up so didn't get up until 5.25am when I had planned leave at 5.45am for a two hour drive to Newbury Showground.

It rained heavily most of the way plus my sat nav took me off the M25 as it said the road was closed between M23 and Reigate - which it wasn't!

Stood waiting to do my first run and realised I'd put my pull-on trousers on back to front.

We got eliminated on the first run though Bess did some lovely work. Two more eliminations followed. Things weren't going too badly in the final run. By this time it was pouring with rain. The Bess decided to go out of the ring on the third to last jump to retrieve her toy which I had asked the lady doing leads to put near the end so she wouldn't run off looking for it. In total, I had four eliminations.

We then set off home in the pouring rain. Apart from the weather, it was a good run until we reached just past the M23 turn off when several police cars dashed in front and stopped the traffic including a car further on. Then more police arrived going past us jumped out with guns and rifles pointing them at the car in front and pulling those in the car out and handcuffing them. Once they'd moved the car to the side of the road, we were allowed to move on.

Was I ever glad to get home. That was until a neighbour knocked on the door to tell me that both my front car windows were wide open and the rain was pouring into the car so I'd have a nice wet seat for tomorrow's drive.

Luckily the next day, I was at the MAD show which is just 20 minutes from home. It was a nice, small show with lots of friends and acquaintances to talk to. Mind you, everyone asked if I'd got my trousers on the right way today!

Standing by the Whistle
Reflections on Judging Dog Agility
By Lisa Jordan

In the world of dog agility, passion runs high—for competitors, spectators, and yes, for us judges, too. Recently, two of my judging decisions have been challenged by a competitors, and while I fully support the right to question and seek clarity, the experience left me reflecting more deeply on the role we judges play in this sport we all care so deeply about.

Let me start by saying this...
Judging is not a role taken lightly. Like all agility judges, I am required to pass a formal exam and demonstrate competency in course design and rule interpretation. These standards exist to uphold fairness and ensure consistency across competitions. I have proudly met those requirements—not once, but continuously through years of dedication and experience.

I've been involved in the dog agility community since 1987. That's nearly four decades of walking courses, building teamwork with my own dogs, celebrating victories, learning from defeats, and watching our sport evolve. It's a history that has deepened my respect for everyone involved, and it's a big part of why I became a judge. Judging is my way of giving back to the community that has given me so much.

Yet, despite that background, I recently found myself made to feel inadequate by a couple of competitor's challenges.

Not because they questioned a decision. That is their right, but because of the way it was delivered - not as a dialogue, but as a dismissal of my experience and integrity.

Constructive feedback is always welcome. We grow through open, respectful discussion. But when disagreement turns personal, it risks eroding the trust and mutual respect that make our sport special. Judges are not infallible, but we are trained, committed and doing our best to serve the sport with fairness and consistency. It is not just about calling faults -it is about stewarding the spirit of competition.

To all competitors
Please know that when we judge, we are not just enforcing rules. We are doing so from a place of passion, experience, and care. You have every right to ask questions, to understand decisions and to seek clarification, but let's do it in a spirit of shared respect.

Agility is at its best when it's a partnership between handler and dog, between competitor and judge and among all of us who love this sport. Let's continue to work together to keep that spirit alive.

I would also like to let you all know, the rules can be read online on the Kennel Club site.

Or purchase the book.

Unfenced Rings
By Jenny Barr

This might be unpopular but is meant kindly.

If your dog can't run in an unfenced ring, please take some time to listen to what your dog is telling you.

Do they need more obstacle focus?
Do they need higher value rewards?
If it is a temperament issue, do you need extra help from a behaviourist?
Do they just need more time and experience in a simulated show environment in training?

None of these things mean you have failed, but they might mean you need to work harder. But that's fine because training your dog is fun and hugely rewarding.

Sometimes, for some dogs like my boy Storm, a show environment is just too much. He is dog aggressive and fearful so he can play at agility at home but will always be safely on a lead at shows. Again, that's fine. I haven't 'failed,' but I am listening to my dog.

Leave Your Ego at Home
Shared by Sue Culmer from a 2019 post

Your dog gets absolutely nothing out of being competitive for you. Not a darn thing. Of course, dogs are bred for specific jobs, or they're bred to be athletic to a certain degree.

They have no idea how much money is added to the pot. They have no idea that this is a qualifier. They have no idea that it is the Worlds.

And DESPITE us... DESPITE our nerves, our flaws, our incorrect cues, our huge emotions, they get the job done to their very best ability. Even when we fail them by letting our emotions get in the way, they come back and they try again. For us. Let that sink in. If only we could all be so understanding.

To think of an animal that is forgiving and flexible enough to put up with the repetition of practice, the intense nerves of the handler, the stress of hauling and they will still meet you at the end of their lead ready to go is mind blowing.

If you haven't done so lately. Thank your dog.

If you're successful, thank the dogs that put you there and made you. Thank the dogs that gave everything they had for you simply because you ASKED them to.

If you're still on the journey to success, thank the dogs that made you fall in love with your sport and that have helped give you the confidence to want to learn more and be better.

We can never stop learning as dog people and by continuing our education. Every dog in our future will be better off.

Next time you head to the club, leave your ego at the door and thank your dog!

A Word of Encouragement
By Ant Clarke

After he selection of both the KC and YKC Agility Team GB has been concluded, Anthony Clarke posted this message on Agilitynet FB to all those who tried out for the team.

After watching the YKC partnerships at Crufts and again at the selection weekend, I have no doubt that those who didn't make the team this time have the potential to come back stronger next year. Now is the time to reflect, set goals and plan for the rest of the season to take that next step towards 2026.

Feeling disappointed, upset, or even frustrated is completely normal. Let that drive your motivation. As a management team, we look forward to seeing you return next year with fire in your belly, ready to fight for your place.

For those who have made the team, the journey starts now. Over the coming months, analysis, development, and continual reflection will be key as you prepare for the championships.

Being selected is an incredible achievement, but standing on a podium for your country is an indescribable feeling. Your preparation, training, and mindset from this point forward will shape that moment. As a coach, I'm excited to be part of your journey and support you along the way.

Let's get to work!

Family Time Is Important
By Chris Kerton

I wasn't going to make an 'announcement' about it, but I've had a couple of people message to ask, so I thought I might as well.

We have decided to withdraw from trying out for Team GB this year as we wanted to have a year without that 'responsibility.'

To be a part of Team GB is an honour, and not something I took lightly, but it meant having to make certain sacrifices to ensure we were as ready as we could possibly be to step on that start line. This year we want to spend more time doing things with Osh while he still wants to hang around with me and Aimee.

It's not just the competitions that takes time and focus. It's all the prep that goes with it. Fitness, jump skills, surface prep, course running etc. I couldn't do all that I needed to AND still do all the things we have planned with Osh.

Appreciate the understanding from the management about our decision.

We will still be at the agility shows as normal, but will be busy in-between, starting with going skiing in a weeks time.

Massive good luck to all my team members from last year.

I'll be watching and cheering you all on.

Photo: Willow Photography

The Need for Speed
By Pamela Stokes

Are we becoming obsessive over the need for speed?

I know the fastest dog wins - subject to faults, of course - but it seems everything else is making way for asking them to run faster and faster.

There have been many discussions about dog walk safety - is it too high? too narrow?

But the push for increasing speed is having an impact too. There have been discussions about course times suggesting the matrix is too generous and some comments indicating that judges are setting almost impossibly low course times, which is demoralising at best.

The upcoming Agility Liaison Council meeting will consider whether dogs need to 'prove their ability to complete a course within a set time' before entering competition. Speed can be fun but what happened to the agile element of agility? Balance? Coordination? These are fun, too!

Rubblish!
By Ian Holman

I'd like to make a plea to all show organisers and attendees for 2025 and beyond.

Our sport is resource hungry. We do a lot of mileage getting to venues. We generate a lot of waste.

Please can our shows be more like any other festival and have separate bins for waste, recyclables and dog mess.

It doesn't require much effort and the cost should be minimal. There really is no excuse for the amount we send to landfill by the skipload in this day and age.

We can and should do better.

More Thinking Aloud Allowed

A safe place to express your opinions...

2026

Give grace. Always.
From Sara Seymour

Be Kind
From Ann Harmes

Show Ring Etiquette
Slightly amended for agility
Anon

Thoughts on Para-Agility
From Lisa Jordan

Thoughts on Judging
From Neil Ellis

The Believe Credo
From Ernesto 'Neto' Hurtado, Agility Coach

2025