3 Ways to Gain Distance from the Line in Dog Agility

Written by Lorrie Reynolds

Lorrie has been an agility enthusiast since 2002 and has taught tricks, family obedience, agility, and canine conditioning since 2005. When she's not writing articles, developing courses, or training dogs, you can find her curled up with a book in her hands and a dog warming her feet.

Aug 19, 2022 | Dog Agility Distance Handling and Advanced Skills

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Your run is going great, and you and your agility dog are in the zone. As you get ready to work the next section of the distance challenge, you realize that you have drifted too close to the line, with no room to move if your dog needs help. Is there a way to recover?

In many cases, yes! The article Planning Your Dog Agility Path for Distance Courses helps you determine your ideal handling plan. If something unexpected happens, here are three ways you can regain distance from the line on a chances, gamblers, or FAST course.

A Tunnel Is Your Friend

Your dog can’t see your motion once they have entered a tunnel. Send your dog in, and as he runs through, take a couple of steps back or move laterally away from the line. Just make sure you are not moving in the wrong direction when he comes out.

Agility Dog Exiting Tunnel

Use “Fixed-Path” Obstacles to Move Laterally Away

If you have taught your dog obstacle independence, once you get him to the weave poles, dog walk, or A-frame, he should complete the obstacle. Maintain your support and take advantage of his fixed path to move laterally away from the line. Be ready to move in the correct direction and cue him for the next obstacle before he finishes.

Agility Dog Running Toward a Jump

Use Natural Sequences to Your Advantage

On most courses with distance challenges, there are sections where the dog naturally moves toward you. Instead of maintaining your position or moving parallel to him, take advantage of those sections to move away from your dog, and the line.

Today’s Tip

All is not lost if you get too close to the distance line. Use one of these three strategies to regain some space and set yourself up for the next section of the course.

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Photos courtesy of Dog Agility Photos for Fun