erl
Posted : 10/6/2006 10:32:41 PM
Yes they can. But as a puppy, be careful because his growth plates aren't closed yet. Don't jump higher than his hocks (if that) preferably not jumping, don't do the A-Frame at full height, weave poles, etc. My agility instructor has an Aussie pup and I watched her work with him. She plays "find the boom" where you get a plank and put it on some PVC so it's like a mini teeter. When the dog hits it with their paw, click and treat. Soon the dog will run back and forth hitting it and learn to love the noise since it equals a treat and they get used to the movement. You can get him used to things laying on him like put a blanket on his back and stuff, so he won't be so afraid of the chute. You can train him 2on 2off (for contacts) by using your stairs as well.
Also, work on obedience and fast sits and downs. And great stays, in class the dog's rears won't touch the ground but are in sitting position because they're so excited. Be sure to keep everything positive or there will pretty much be no hope in pursuing this career. Also, get him used to being around strange dogs and people and still being obedient. Work a lot on come so he won't escape the ring in the future. Also, many agility training groups have an agility kindergarton class for puppies, or one with foundation skills you can put him in.
Ok those were off the top of my head, but I heard that Clean Run had a magazine all about foundation skills for puppies and stuff it was printed about a year ago I believe.
I hope that helped some. Good luck!