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Best Agility Training Products

Angela Vuckovic
by Angela Vuckovic
Updated:  September 20th, 2022 Published:  August 15th, 2022
Mackland/Shutterstock

Agility training can bring out the best in your dog. It is a fun way to get your pet to burn off excess energy and engage their little gray cells! If you want to create an agility course in your backyard to be able to exercise your dog from the comfort of your own home, you will need a lot of specially designed equipment pieces and agility training products to prepare them for the “real deal” they’ll participate in at competitions.


These agility training products can really make a training course look and feel professional – which is essential if your pet is going to compete, but also important if you’re doing agility simply as a form of fun exercise for your dog. They are specifically designed to be beneficial for your dog – none of them is an insurmountable obstacle that cannot be overcome but rather a challenging, fun addition to your DIY agility course. Read on to see our selection of the 10 best agility training products for all levels of fitness and skills!

Editor’s Choice: PETSPORIUM Dog agility Training Equipment

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This Petsporium agility training equipment set offers 19 pieces of unique obstacles that your doggo will learn to overcome. Included are an agility tunnel, 2 adjustable hurdles, 5 weave poles, 4 pegs, 2 tennis balls, a pause box, one dog training whistle, a treat reward pouch, and 2 nifty carry bags. With all this, you can create a full-fledged agility training course in your own backyard. The equipment is made with durable PVC material and 190T polyester and will be able to endure both your doggo’s skills (or the lack of thereof) and the weather. And once the training is done, all the equipment pieces can be stored away with ease.

Pros

  • A variety of agility equipment
  • Durable and lightweight
  • Great for training courses
  • 2 storage bags included

Cons

  • Takes a bit to master the assembly

Runner Up: Yiotl Dog Agility Equipment Set

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If you are looking to spice up your dog’s agility training course, it might be time to take things up a notch. This fantastic 30-piece equipment set from Yiotl is just the thing for an able and energetic pooch. The set comes with one pause box, eight weave poles, two open tunnels that can be connected, one high jump obstacle, one trainer’s whistle, one frisbee, and two very useful carrying bags. With all these gadgets at your disposal, you can really get versatile and create an obstacle course just the way you want to - and the way your doggo likes it. All the items are created from very durable and rugged PVC material and nylon fabric and will withstand all the wear and tear and weather. Once the fun is done, this set can be quickly folded down and stored in special carry bags for convenient storage.

Pros

  • An extensive set
  • Great for starter and advanced beginner training
  • Durable build
  • Easily stored away

Cons

  • Tunnels could be more stable

Customer’s Choice: YON.SOU.10 Feet Dog Agility Tunnel with 2 Sandbags

Check Price $69.99

A tunnel is one of the main features of a training obstacle course, and it requires a bit of hard work to master. To make it easier for your four-legged buddy, you should rely on the very best tunnel designs. This unique concept from YON.SOU makes tunneling a breeze. With 10 feet in length and 24 inches in diameter, it has plenty of room for maneuvering and can be set up straight or curved. Integrated sandbags are an important addition to this design – they will keep the tunnel grounded and stable, and that helps a lot with training. The material used here is polyester, which is very durable and resistant to the weather. All the while, it is quite lightweight so the tunnel holds its shape well. However, you should not worry about leaving it outside and potential weather damage as it comes complete with a carrying bag that allows for easy storage.

Pros

  • Integrated sandbags
  • Very stable and durable
  • Carrying bag

Cons

  • Length won’t suit every dog

Best Indoor Agility Training Product: Outward Hound Interactive Dog Training Toys

Check Price $43.99

Some dogs have all that extra curiosity and energy that will need to be spent efficiently. In these cases, it could be best to begin with some light and interactive dog training – even if you only have indoor space to work with. This small set is designed for indoor use and contains one short and spacious small tunnel obstacle, four agility weave poles, and one adjustable high jump! Perfect for those dogs that are still experimenting with obstacle courses. Everything here is adjustable in order to adjust the difficulty level, and the tunnel can be folded down. Of course, everything is super easy to assemble and pack up. It can be stored away in no time and will take very little space. So, if you are looking for an interactive and fun bit of training for your energetic doggo that can be set up in your living room – this might be a perfect choice!

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Simple but fun
  • Compact and designed for indoor use
  • Adjustable difficulty

Cons

  • Could be sturdier

Best Exercise Agility Training Product: Sport PET Designs Agility Training for Dogs

Check Price $99.99

Some doggos are quick to learn and overcome simple obstacles. In these cases, you want to take things to a whole new level. This professional, exercise-oriented obstacle course set is an ideal way to give your pet a bit of a challenge. It contains a number of fantastic obstacles: four oblong course panels, one short round tunnel, one blind tunnel, a high jump, a pause box, and six connected weave poles. All the items are made with durable materials and have integrated red fabric that enhances visibility but also provides extra stability and durability as the fabric is quite tough. All of the agility items are very durable and can take the wear and tear of frequent use. The weave poles include fiberglass stakes for extra stability, while the high jump obstacle can be adjusted in height. With all this arranged, you can really give your four-legged friend a challenge to look forward to.

Pros

  • Great visibility
  • Solid stability
  • Unique obstacles
  • Durable build
  • Adjustable

Cons

  • Round tunnel roof lacks support

Best High Jump Agility Training Product: PAWISE Outdoor Agility Exercise Training Equipment

Check Price $34.99

The high jump is one of the foremost features of every obstacle course. But it also requires a lot of agility and energy: your dog will have to jump up as high as they can! This fantastic high jump equipment piece is ideal to include in your set. Made from durable PVC and ABS plastic, these poles also feature integrated stakes to be stuck into the ground for extra stability. Although simple at first glance, this high jump has everything you need. Two adjustable locking connectors will allow you to set the height wherever you want it, and thus adjust the difficulty for your pet. The color is also important to note: blue sides and a bright orange height bar will be easy to see and overcome. All in all, this obstacle is durable, well-made, adjustable, and easy to store – what more to ask for?

Pros

  • Fully adjustable
  • Good visibility
  • Durable
  • Great for every obstacle course

Cons

  • Could be more durable

Best Agility Training Product for Beginners: Sowsun Dog Agility Training Equipment

Check Price $79.99

All successful agility champions of the doggo world had to start somewhere – and it is important to get off to a good start. This special agility course equipment is ideal for beginners! It contains all that is needed for a perfect start: one adjustable high jump, one fold-up tunnel obstacle, eight agility weave poles, one square pause box, and two tennis balls. With all this, you can set up a course that’s ideal for your dog and its abilities. All the items are constructed from durable and flexible PVC and 190t polyester, which ensures top-notch resistance to the weather and wear and tear. Of course, all these items can be quickly packed up and stored away. With this reliable starter course, your doggo can grow up to be a true champion of agility training.

Pros

  • Durable build
  • Great for beginners
  • Quickly sets up and folds away

Cons

  • Tunnel is on the shorter side

Best Flirt Pole for Agility Training: DIBBATU Dog Flirt Pole Toy

Check Price $32.99

Let’s face it – there is no dog out there that is not motivated by dangly and colorful toys. One notion of the teasing wand and it's already time to play! This flirt pole will help you stimulate your pet for new exercises and can benefit your pet’s agility training as well. The pole toy is made from durable 304 stainless steel, which gives it a lot of flexibility, and on top is a durable nylon cord and a dangling end that can be pulled and tugged by even the strongest dogs. Of course, the pole features a rubberized and textured grip, which allows you to take a firm hold. This entire design is excellent for a variety of things: it makes for great casual fun in the park with the classic pull-and-tug games, it can give you more control during training courses and can work well in the agility course.

Pros

  • Simple but efficient toy
  • Easy to use
  • Has a variety of roles

Cons

  • Best for larger dogs

Best Tunnel Agility Training Products: Houseables Dog Tunnel

Check Price $57.32

For every equipment set and agility course, tunnels can be an invaluable addition. They add fun to every course, and a bit of a challenge too! This Houseables dog tunnel is one of the more advanced versions – it is 18 feet long and has a 24-inch diameter. With such a length you can really experiment with different shapes and bends. The tunnel is made from durable polyester material and can endure weather exposure without looking worse for the wear. Another great addition are special stakes that serve to provide stability – a much-needed precaution. Once you are finished, you can easily store this long tunnel away. That’s thanks to a special carry bag that is designed just for this tunnel, reducing it to a tiny bundle. All in all, this tunnel will be an invaluable piece of all agility training courses.

Pros

  • Extra long
  • Very durable build
  • Adjustable shape
  • Packs compact

Cons

  • The stakes could be longer

Best Agility Training Treat Pouch: BesWlz - Dog Treat Pouch

Check Price $9.99

Wait, wait, wait: what would agility training be without treats? Every successfully completed course and trick will require prompt stimuli: a tasty treat as a reward. This unique item will be an invaluable addition for every enthusiastic training course overseer. A nifty treat pouch, it can be used in a variety of ways. It can be attached to your waist, your belt, or carried on your shoulder. It holds a lot of treats, which are protected by a sturdy zipper. Also included is an integrated poop bag holder! The pouch is made from durable fabric, and it has a shape that won’t get in your way in the middle of agility training. It comes in handy to have treats always close at hand. And we all know that your pet will love it!

Pros

  • Great for agility training
  • Durable build
  • Easy to carry

Cons

  • Pockets somewhat deep

What is the Importance of Agility Training for Dogs?


All dogs love to train, run, jump about, and spend their energy in various ways. However, it is up to you to properly direct that energy. If not, it can be spent in many negative ways. And that is why agility training for dogs is very important. A properly organized training agility course can be the perfect way to stimulate your pet, spur their athleticism, and let them spend all that energy in an efficient and healthy way.


Various hurdles and obstacles can stimulate proper brain development -–and not to mention physical strength. All dogs will become more agile and athletic with agility training. And, who knows, in time maybe your pet will become a successful competitor in professional agility competitions. Either way, the importance of agility courses and their benefits are numerous. It should be an invaluable part of every dog owner’s arsenal –and an unavoidable part of every dog owner’s backyard!





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Angela Vuckovic
Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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Sure, cats tend to spend a lot of their day seemingly lazing about, basking in the sun, meticulously cleaning themselves, and snoozing away. However, that doesn’t mean that cats are not active animals that need daily exercise – they have an instinct to hunt, explore, and engage in different activities that stimulate their minds and bodies. Without adequate mental and physical stimulation, cats can become bored, stressed, and even develop behavioral issues. This is why playtime is not “just” a matter of playing for felines. It meets their most basic needs and it's an essential component of their overall well-being.What Are the Benefits of Playtime for Cats?Engaging your cat in interactive play stimulates their cognitive abilities, keeping their minds sharp and active. Activities like chasing toys, solving puzzles, or hunting for treats mimic their natural hunting instincts, providing mental enrichment. Enrichment is crucial to prevent destructive behaviors, aggression, and other behavioral issues that stem from boredom and lack of mental stimulation. In addition to keeping your kitty’s mind sharp, playtime will keep them fit as a fiddle and in their top form. Regular play sessions help cats balance extra energy, maintain a healthy weight, and prevent obesity-related health issues. It also promotes muscle tone, flexibility, and overall physical fitness, reducing the risk of joint problems as they age.Last but not least, interactive play presents a unique bonding opportunity. Playing together with your cat will strengthen your relationship, fostering trust and affection. It's a chance to spend quality time together and will provide your cat with a sense of security and happiness.How Much Playtime Does My Cat Need?The importance of your cat having regular playtime is indisputable, but how much playtime do they need? Well, as it usually goes with these things, the answer will largely depend on your pet’s specific traits, such as their age, breed, and health status. However, for most cats, that “magic” number ends up being between 20 to 30 minutes of playtime each day. This could be your starting point to determine the right amount of play for your pet, just tailor it to their needs – for instance, younger cats and kittens will need longer and more frequent play sessions to burn off excess energy and engage their curious minds. How To Make Playtime Engaging for Your CatAs intelligent and sometimes finicky animals, cats can be a bit hard to please. A new toy might bore them in a matter of hours, or they might prefer scratching your couch rather than the new cat tree you bought them – but if you rely on the following tricks, it’s much likelier that your kitty will enjoy playtime.#1 Rotate ToysKeep your cat's interest piqued by rotating their toys regularly. Introduce new toys periodically to prevent boredom and stimulate their curiosity, but don’t overdo it – bringing home new toys too often will ensure they get bored of each one too quickly. #2 Variety is KeyExperiment with different types of toys, such as wand toys, laser pointers, puzzle feeders, and interactive play circuits. Cats have unique preferences, so observe what activities your cat enjoys most and tailor playtime accordingly. Usually, a safe bet is going for a catnip-filled toy such as the well-loved  Yeowww! Catnip Yellow Banana Cat Toy. Popular for its shape that makes it perfect for cats to grab onto and forcefully scratch with all fours, this toy will keep your kitty engaged thanks to the organic catnip stuffing that fills this banana-shaped toy to the brim.

Should My Dog Wear a Winter Coat?

As the temperatures drop and winter approaches, many pet parents face a common question: Should my dog wear a winter coat? It’s a valid question! After all, we bundle up before heading out into the ice and snow. Why shouldn’t our dogs? This article will explore the considerations, benefits, and potential downsides of winter coats for dogs. Plus, we’ll share the coats we use to keep our pups warm and cozy. Let’s get started… Do All Dogs Need a Coat in Winter? The short answer is no. Not all dogs need a winter coat to stay comfortable in the colder temperatures. In fact, some dogs will be more comfortable without a winter coat. That leaves us with one more question – how do you know if your dog will need a coat this season? Here are a few factors to consider: Breed & Coat LengthWhat breed or breed mix is your dog? Some dogs, like the Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, and Keeshond, were specifically bred to handle the colder temperatures. These dogs have thick double coats, including a water-resistant guard coat and a plush, warm undercoat. If you own one of these dogs, you may see them relaxing outside, happily napping in a snowbank. They thrive in cooler weather but struggle when the temperatures climb. On the other end of the spectrum, some dogs were bred to live in warmer climates. These dogs have short coats, offering little protection from the winter cold. Age Your dog’s age could make them more sensitive to changes in temperature, both heat and cold. If you have a young puppy or a senior dog, they may need a little extra care and attention. Not only do they feel cold faster, but the low temperatures could worsen the discomfort of a senior dog’s arthritis or other joint problems. Even if your dog once thrived in cold temperatures, they may struggle in their older years.Disease or Illness If your dog is currently living with a disease or illness, it can compromise their ability to regulate their body temperature effectively. Your dog’s condition can impact many aspects of their well-being. It may weaken their immune system, causing dehydration or interfering with proper circulation. Contact your veterinarian if you’re unsure whether your dog’s illness could impact their ability to handle the cold. Activity LevelAre you heading outside to hang out in your yard, or are you planning to engage in something more active like a hike or skijoring? As your dog’s muscles are engaged and working, they are producing heat that raises the body temperature. If your dog occasionally needs a light jacket, they may not need one during heavy activity. On the other hand, if your dog is usually okay when you’re going for a walk, they may need a light jacket or sweater if they are going to be standing around.

Common Garden Plants That Can Send Your Dog into Cardiac Arrest

Spring is finally upon us! For dog owners, spring is always a welcoming sight as it signals the start of longer walks in the park and more time in the garden. The backyard is usually a fun place for you and your pooch to play and run around. However, certain types of plants are dangerous to dogs and can make your backyard a safety hazard. Experts advise that some spring plants and flowers, both indoors and outdoors, can be harmful to your pooch and should be avoided at all costs. Some of these plants are known to cause upset stomachs, itching, vomiting, and, in severe cases, even cardiac arrest in dogs. Craig Wilson, co-founder, director, and gardening expert at Gardeners Dream, has listed the toxic flowers and plants you should keep from the home and garden if you have a dog. DaffodilsDid you know that daffodils, one of the most popular heralds of spring, are poisonous to both cats and dogs? These trumpet-shaped flowers contain a toxic compound called lycorine which causes stomach pain and diarrhea when ingested. Bulbs are the most toxic part of the daffodil plant, but dogs can also get sick after consuming the flowers. Even drinking the water from a vase that contains daffodils can cause toxicity in dogs.Tulips All parts of the tulip plant - bulbs, stems, leaves, and flowers - are toxic to both cats and dogs. The bulb stores the highest concentration of toxins, making it the most toxic part of the plant. Most dogs will experience drooling, diarrhea, and vomiting after consuming tulips. In severe cases, dogs can experience heart problems and difficulty breathing.IrisesColorful and hardy irises are a popular flower in many household gardens. Unfortunately, irises are toxic to dogs and can make your pooch sick if ingested or touched. Irises contain irisin, a toxic compound that triggers tissue irritation when swallowed or touched. The bulbs and rhizomes hold the highest concentration of irisin, making this plant particularly hazardous to dogs who like to dig.Hyacinths Many people like planting hyacinths in their gardens, but these tall and vibrant plants are harmful to dogs. Hyacinths belong to the same family as tulips and contain calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals are present in all areas of the plant and are shaped like needles. When ingested, these crystals can pierce a dog’s soft tissues, causing severe pain.Symptoms of hyacinth poisoning also include diarrhea, vomiting, abnormal breathing, increased heart rate, and convulsions. If you suspect your pooch has ingested any part of the hyacinth plant, take them to the vet as soon as possible. BluebellsAll parts of the bluebell plant contain a toxic compound called glycosides. Not only are bluebells harmful to cats and dogs, but this plant is also toxic to horses and cattle. If any part of the bluebell plant is consumed, it can cause stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. When eaten in large quantities, bluebells can be fatal.Hydrangeas Many gardeners love the look of hydrangeas in the spring and fall, but dog owners beware - hydrangeas are toxic to dogs. Dogs can become poisoned from eating any part of the hydrangea plant, as they all contain cyanogenic glycoside.Chewing plants with this toxic compound releases cyanide and can result in loss of appetite, vomiting, depression, and increased heart rate. Munching on the flowers, buds, leaves, or bark of the hydrangea plant can make dogs sick, so keep a close eye on your pooch whenever they are sniffing around a hydrangea plant.These are just some of the most common plants that can make your dog sick, but there are more! If your pooch likes to munch on plants, it’s best not to leave them unsupervised in the garden.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

UK Insurance Giant Names Pets as Culprit in Over 6,000 Claims

Between 2019 and 2023, dogs and cats identified as cause for missing jewelry, broken electronics, and property damage.

What is a Hydrolyzed Protein Diet for Dogs?

Protein is a very important part of a dog’s diet. However, some doggos might have a sensitive digestive system or even allergies. In such cases, a hydrolyzed protein diet becomes essential as it provides important nutrients without being heavy on their tummy. But what is hydrolyzed protein exactly? A hydrolyzed protein diet for dogs is a type of food that is formulated specifically for dogs that have allergies or certain food sensitivities. The protein sources in this diet are all broken down into smaller molecules, thanks to a complex process called hydrolysis. What this process does is reduce the size of the protein molecules, making them less likely to trigger an allergic reaction. So, if your doggo is a bit sensitive, this could be what’s needed!Veterinarians often recommend hydrolyzed protein for dogs that are diagnosed with intolerances or  food allergies. Thanks to this, your pet can receive all the essential nutrients without any adverse reactions being triggered. The most common sources of hydrolyzed protein in these diets are beef, chicken, salmon, or soy. So it’s just like most of the common dog foods - but in a different, better form. 

How Can I Prevent My Dog From Barking When They’re Home Alone?

Dogs are very affectionate beings, and can form incredible bonds with their owners – but this also means that they would love to be by their side at all times. Sometimes, however, this is just not possible. Their owners have to  work, go to the store, or finish chores out of home and they can’t always take their pets with them. And when you leave your pooch all by their lonesome, they often think it’s the end of the world – you’ve abandoned them for good, even when you’re away for like 25 minutes. This can result in anxiety, restlessness, and a lot of barking. Some dogs – in fact – just won’t stop barking or howling until you come back. How can you bring an end to this behavior, and prevent all the excess barking? And how can you let your pet know that leaving for a little bit is no big deal? Let’s find out. Battles with Barks: Why Dogs Bark When Alone and How to Stop ItExcessive barking when a dog is home alone can be a common issue for a lot of owners, and addressing it requires a combination of training, environmental management, and sometimes, the help of professionals. Above all, it requires patience. However, there are a number of factors that come into play when such situations occur. To make your dog calmer, quieter, and ready to accept your absence, you should take a closer look at the daily routine the two of you share.First, consider if you're providing enough physical and mental stimulation. Physical exercise is crucial for a dog's well-being. Keep in mind that a tired dog is generally a content and quieter dog. So, before you leave, make sure that they have ample exercise, fun, and outside time. If they “emptied their batteries”, they are more likely to remain calm and just snooze while you are out. Of course, to make sure you always fulfill these exercise requirements, you will have to establish a consistent daily routine. Just like humans, doggos too depend on the routine they can follow. This routine helps them feel secure and understand when to expect certain events like meals and walks. If they get used to a daily chain of events, they will expect you to leave and be okay with it.  Interactive toys that provide mental stimulation or dispense treats are also a great thing to utilize when battling anxiety or boredom-induced barking. They can help your dog stay occupied during your absence. As they get involved in playing with the toy, dogs will tire out, keep themselves busy, and not make such a big deal about your absence. With a toy, alone time can actually be enjoyable for a dog.

Meet Maverick, the Winner of the 2023 American Humane Hero Dog Award

A six-year-old European Blue Great Dane was singled out from hundreds of other dogs and crowned the 2023 American Humane Hero Dog. Maverick’s job as a therapy dog is to support military members and their families from across the country.Maverick has an extraordinary ability to provide comfort to those who need it with a simple touch of his paw. “A sign of a good therapy dog is a dog that always wants to touch you,” explained Marverick’s owner, Kelly Brownfield, from Saint Robert, Missouri. “He just has a sense of knowing what people need.”Brownfield, who works as a manager at the Fort Leonard Wood United Service Organization, told Fox News that Maverick was born for a purpose. “Maverick’s superpower is his ability to calm people with a touch of his paw, giving them strength to move forward,” she said.This gentle giant supports service members after unexpected deaths in their units, escorts children to military funerals of their parents, and helps service men and women cope with trauma. Each week, Maveric spends time with students at school, offering support to children who practice their reading skills.Tipping the scales at 150 pounds, Maverick can initially seem intimidating, but “he is literally a gentle giant,” said Brownfield. “His whole aura about him is calming.”“He is the perfect size for everything that we do. He is literally their rock; they can lean on him, and he is there for them,” his owner added. “The one thing about this breed is that they have a heart to match.”Each year, people around the country nominate hundreds of dogs in five categories - law enforcement and first responder dogs; service and guide or hearing dogs; therapy dogs; military dogs; and emerging hero and shelter dogs - for American Humane’s Hero Dog Award.Five semi-finalists, in each of the five categories, were chosen from hundreds of dogs. A competitive public vote has cut the list to only five four-legged finalists - one presenting each category. Maverick, who was competing against service dog Moxie, Coast Guard K-9 Buda, police dog Poppy, and emerging hero Raina, was crowned by the panel of judges as the winner. “We are so excited to name Maverick as the American Humane’s 2023 Hero Dog, a distinction that is well deserved for him and his owner Kelly,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane. “The duo has worked tirelessly to bring comfort and solace to our nation’s military heroes through the United Service Organization (USO), all while they both were facing their internal beatles against cancer. It’s these types of incredible stories about sacrifice, perseverance, and compassion that this award aims to spotlight.”Maverick has also offered emotional support to his owner Kelly, who has been battling cancer for the past six years. “I truly believe he knew before anyone else knew,” said Brownfield, adding that Maverick was particularly clingy, touchy, and protective in the months leading up to her diagnosis. “To have him there, especially on hard days has been just an amazing support.”The six-year-old gentle giant also faced a cancer diagnosis last year but is now cancer-free thanks to a successful surgical procedure. Although Maverick spends most of his time in Missouri, he and his owner sometimes travel around the country for work. Together, he and Brownfield have completed hundreds of special mission requests over the years.Having a therapy dog around “can help change lives,” said Brownfield. “He senses the needs of every person.”Maverick and the four other finalists will be honored at the 13th annual American Humane Hero Dog Awards in Palm Beach, Florida. The award show will air on Thanksgiving Day and November 26 on A&E.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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