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No one wants a restless overactive dog, but you still want your dog to be agile and energetic.  While some breeds are naturally more agile, all dogs can be trained to be more agile and nimble.  Before you begin agility training, it’s very important to develop a good relationship with your dog.

To train any dog, you first have to be sure you can get its attention, and keep it.  The best way to do that is with a toy or a game where you become a part of the game.  The relationship developed while playing goes a long way in agility training.  It’s very important to understand that during your game your primary goal is to take control of the play.  Be sure to build your dog’s confidence with praise and encouragement.  If necessary, you might want to give your dog obedience training before working on your dog’s agility. 
 
Agility training is important to make your dog more active.  It helps you develop a good relationship with your dog, and makes your dog feel more secure and confident.  Be consistent.  Continue training and exercising your dog regularly to help provide him with a lifetime of fitness and agility. Although devoting time to fitness and agility training may seem tedious at first, the long-term benefits will far outweigh the inconvenience.  

Also be sure to pay careful attention to your dog’s diet.  Even dogs need a nutritious diet to remain active and healthy.  You shouldn’t let your dog gain excess weight under any circumstances, because your dog’s overall fitness is a key factor in its agility.  Proper exercise helps your dog’s muscles and tissues reach the optimum level of function.  An overweight dog will have less enthusiasm to go for a jog, a short walk, or any exercise at all.

If you can’t decide how to begin a fitness program for your dog that will increase its agility, don’t worry.  Many experts recommend that dog owners begin by simply taking their dogs for a walk.  Don’t exceed a mile at first.  Assess the endurance of your dog and understand how it reacts to this distance. If you observe any kind of discomfort, stop the exercise to avoid a medical problem. Try reducing the distance if necessary and continue to take your dog for a walk. With daily effort, your dog will soon exhibit amazing fitness and endurance.