Is my doodle too small for agility?

[Katrine]

Hello all,

We are enrolled in Agility One and Stella and I both love it! That said, the teacher has made it clear that she doesn't like small dogs. Part of me understands; you do have to bend down to lead with your hand. Stella is only 13 inches at the shoulder but she flies like the wind!

I'd like to think that we could enter some competitions, but I'm wondering if there are height requirements, etc. for them. 

Anyone else with a small doodle that competes? Thanks for any help!

[Barb @ Gemstone Labradoodles]

I don't think there are any height requirements. Here are the AKC rules and it shows a division for 8 in and 12 in and 16in

http://images.akc.org/pdf/rulebooks/REAGIL.pdf

[Katrine]

Brilliant info, thank you Barb and Lori!

[Lynda Kamrath]

Oh Katrine - I don't think it is any problem with size.  My friend has two small dogs that are great at agility and they have also been trained as therapy dogs.  In fact, they were the cover photo for the SPCA calendar this year and I have their photo on my webpage.  Darling, darling little dogs.  I will attach a scan of the calendar.

BTY, my large doodle is 30 inches tall and he will step over something, but will not jump at all.  Now he would have some problems with agility, but your dog should do fine.  Find another trainer or better yet, ask your trainer for a suggestion for someone who likes to work with small dogs.

[Katrine]

Lynda, how cute are those two???

Thanks for the kind words and advice. Yes, we're going to continue with classes soon! :)