Sport Puppy & Foundations Agility Level 1 – Hybrid Course

Day/Time: Mondays at 10:30 AM OR Wednesdays at 8:30 pm
Duration: 8 Weeks, 1 hour per class
Cost: $185 per dog
Class Size: Minimum 3 dogs | Maximum 5 dogs
Recommended Age: 5–18 months (older beginner dogs welcome)
Experience Level: Beginner-friendly | All handler experience levels

Location: Rhy's-N-Shine Canines
W121 S 2nd St
Spring Valley, WI 54767

Class Description

This hybrid course is designed for puppies, young dogs, and older beginners looking to start their dog agility journey! By combining elements of our Sport Puppy Foundations and Foundations Agility Level 1 programs, this class provides an opportunity for dogs and their handlers to develop essential foundation skills in a fun, supportive, and adaptable learning environment.

The course will primarily focus on flatwork, reinforcement strategies, reward-based games, and body awareness exercises to help establish the skills needed for future agility training. Whether you're an experienced handler starting a new puppy or completely new to dog agility, exercises can be modified to accommodate each team's experience and training level.

Skills covered will include:

  • Flatwork Foundations: Developing handler engagement, movement skills, and introductory handling concepts.

  • Reinforcement Strategies: Building effective reward systems using food, toys, and play.

  • Toy Play & Reward Games: Encouraging motivation, confidence, and enthusiasm for training.

  • Body Awareness & Coordination: Introducing exercises that promote balance, coordination, and an understanding of body positioning.

  • Engagement & Focus: Developing a strong working relationship between dog and handler while introducing training in a group environment.

The primary goal of this course is to establish a strong foundation for future agility training rather than focusing on agility equipment or obstacle performance. Exercises will be adapted to each dog's age, physical development, and experience.

Age & Experience Requirements

This course is recommended for puppies and young dogs approximately 5–18 months of age, although older beginner dogs are also welcome!

Both experienced and inexperienced handlers are encouraged to participate. Because this is a hybrid course, instruction can be adapted to accommodate different skill levels while ensuring each dog progresses at an appropriate pace.

Registration & Class Policies

Class Size & Pricing: Registration is limited to five dogs to ensure each team receives individualized instruction. A minimum of three dogs is typically required to run the class. If enrollment is limited to three dogs, a sliding-scale registration fee may apply. Additional pricing information will be provided to interested participants before registration is finalized.

Schedule: Classes are scheduled for eight weeks, with the intention of meeting weekly. Skip weeks may be incorporated to accommodate holidays or scheduling conflicts. Any planned breaks will be communicated in advance.

Attendance & Refunds: Due to limited class availability, refunds or credits will not be provided for missed classes.