In dog agility competitions, the dog begins behind a starting line and, after instructions from his handler, continues around the course. The handler usually runs near the dog to direct the animal with voice commands and body language. Speed counts in this sport as much as accuracy and scoring is partly based on how many errors are made.

One of the most difficult obstacles to master in these competitions are the agility weave poles. This is a series of 5 to 12 upright poles that are about 3 feet tall and are placed on the ground 20 inches apart. According to competition rules, dogs must always enter with the first pole to his left and complete the course without skipping any poles.