“Flatwork: Foundation for Agility does a lot in 78 pages. Levenson provides detailed exercises for training handling “on the flat” (i.e., without obstacles) including straight-line heeling, circle work, front and rear crosses, and collection and extension of stride. A real bonus of this book is the author clearly understands clicker training and how to break very complex behaviors into simple steps. The writing is clear and easy to follow and the photos that accompany the instructions are very clear. Unfortunately, some of them inadvertently depict the rather common mistake of presenting two hands at the same time to the dog. My only other quibble with this book is the method used to teach rear crosses. Many handlers have found this to cause “flick-aways,” where dogs misread that flipping arm signal at other times, shooting off to take an obstacle unintended by the handler. My favorite chapter was the third, “Teaching Movement of the Hindquarters,” which describes why teaching rear-end awareness can increase a dog’s response to a handler’s body cues and its ability to physically position its body in relationship to the handler. This book is definitely going on my recommended reading list for my own agility students!” Terry Long
Agility is the fastest growing canine sport in the country. Our 12,000 square foot building and up-to-date training equipment gives you enough room to train your dog the right way. You will learn the fundamentals of agility and have fun with your dog at the same time.
All classes are taught using ONLY positive reinforcement.
We use only positive reinforcement training and all classes are taught by Barb and a very select group of individuals who have proven themselves and understand Operant Conditioning and Learning Theory as it applies to agility. In addition, Barb and her trainers are coached regularly by some of the top agility competitors in the country. As a result, you and your dog will learn agility faster and with more understanding than with other methodologies.
We offer classes for beginners through competition handlers. In addition, seminars, workshops and Fun Days are frequently offered to enhance your training and handling.
Barb is also available for private or group lessons. For more information or to schedule an event, email Barb at info@barblevensondogtraining.com
Registration Information: Classes are 8 weeks in length at a cost of $150.00 per session. Next Beginner Agility Class: Monday January 23rd, 2012 Classes are definitely limited in size; so please contact us for our upcoming classes. Note: To ensure your safety and enjoyment, there are several required obedience exercises for this class.
Just For Fun Agility
Want to "play" agility "just for fun?" A Just for Fun Agility Program began in 2007. It's a class for people who simply want a night of fun and exercise for their dog. Email us for details. There are prerequesite skills to attend this class.
Flatwork - Foundation for Agility
Barb's first book, Flatwork for Agility, was released in early 2007. Published by Clean Run Productions it offers many new ideas for agility enthusiasts. See below.
Flatwork is about what happens between the obstacles. Your dog spends more time between the obstacles running with you on the flat than he does performing the obstacles. It's on the flat that you set up your dog's approach to the next obstacle, where you as handler do most of your job guiding the dog. Performing flatwork successfully requires excellent communication between dog and handler. Learn to develop a communication system with your dog as you teach him each maneuver with the distraction of obstacles. As you follow this training program, you will develop a set of cues and movements that indicate specific behaviors to the dog, and you will become aware of exactly what your body is really saying to your dog!
“Flatwork: Foundation for Agility does a lot in 78 pages. Levenson provides detailed exercises for training handling “on the flat” (i.e., without obstacles) including straight-line heeling, circle work, front and rear crosses, and collection and extension of stride. A real bonus of this book is the author clearly understands clicker training and how to break very complex behaviors into simple steps. The writing is clear and easy to follow and the photos that accompany the instructions are very clear. Unfortunately, some of them inadvertently depict the rather common mistake of presenting two hands at the same time to the dog. My only other quibble with this book is the method used to teach rear crosses. Many handlers have found this to cause “flick-aways,” where dogs misread that flipping arm signal at other times, shooting off to take an obstacle unintended by the handler. My favorite chapter was the third, “Teaching Movement of the Hindquarters,” which describes why teaching rear-end awareness can increase a dog’s response to a handler’s body cues and its ability to physically position its body in relationship to the handler. This book is definitely going on my recommended reading list for my own agility students!” Terry Long 
Barb's first book, Flatwork for Agility, was released in early 2007. Published by Clean Run Productions it offers many new ideas for agility enthusiasts. See below.
