The exciting sport of Agility has taken the world by storm. The Agility ring allows handler and dog to run full speed, while having to perform accurately and safely on A-Frames, Dog Walks, See-Saws and a wide variety of jumps and tunnels.

Because Agility is growing so rapidly, many dogs have earned progressively more difficult titles, from Novice Agility (NA), Open Agility (OA), and Agility Excellent (AX) to Master Agility Excellent (MX). Additional titles are Jumpers with Weaves Novice (NAJ), Open (OAJ), and Excellent (MXJ), which leads to the supreme title of Master Agility Champion (MACH), where a dog has to earn 750 points (based upon the speed of sound), while double qualifying in each run through a course that requires both speed and accuracy.

In agility, the dog runs an obstacle course. He is off leash, but accompanied by his handler. They compete in different classes at graduated levels, each of which has an available title. Titles may appear as initials before or after the dog's name, depending on the organization awarding it. Agility is an exciting sport for both spectators and participants.

It is also a sport in which Akitas can excel. Akitas are performing in agility with all the event-holding organizations anddoing very well. Generally, dogs like the chance to use their natural athletic ability, but repeated runs can be tiring. Dogs may need an extra energy snack and a cool pad is always welcome.

Note: September 1, 2001 dogs eligible for entry in Miscellaneous Class at dog shows are eligible to participate provided their AKC identification number appears on the entry form.