New owners, and other friends who were waiting patiently for the NDTC 2020 program to reboot after the Covid-19 shutdown, were happy to be back at Nata Oval, Narooma.

The sun shone - it was a brilliant afternoon to return to dog training.

Now that the Obedience program is up and running, NDTC is preparing to reboot its Agility program.

Handlers need to complete Green Class/Basic Obedience first, and most importantly their dog needs to be over nine months of age. Why nine months?

Excessive exercise, such as Agility, too soon in a puppy's life, risks damage to the skeletal system - in particular to the delicate bones of a puppy's long legs.

The issue is with growth plates, which are the soft areas of developing cartilage tissue found near the ends of the long bones.

As the puppy develops, the growth plates close and harden into solid bone.

Prior to that, the plates are vulnerable to injury and potentially to fracture.

Most growing takes place when the puppy is between the ages of four-to-eight months. After eight months, there is generally minimal longitudinal growth of bones happening.

This is why NDTC sets a minimum age limit on when to start Agility.

Agility is a great way to expend a dog's excess energy, and challenge its mind and body. It can help strengthen muscles, improve coordination, and keep your dog fit.

Want to join the Agility program? Now is the time to speak with Instructors, Peter and Kath, ready to begin the program in August. Or you can ring NDTC on 0458 953 281, 9am-5pm weekdays, for more information.