You’ve probably heard the news by now (see one my previous post on the subject) that AKC is slated to announce some changes, including a new weave pole requirement: 24″ weave spacing. Most people (especially the big dog owners) are in favor of this spine-saving change, and look forward to the official announcement that is supposed to happen in January of 2010. Others don’t like the idea because it means they need to buy a new set of weave poles. What do YOU think about it? Are you concerned or do have any questions? Is this the first time you’ve heard about it?
As a member of Agility Fusion, your opinion on this subject is valuable to me. To thank you for your time, I would like to give away a free copy of Susan Garret’s popular video “2 x 2’s: 12 Weave Poles in 12 Days“! This is a $69.95 value! On Dec. 30th 2009 I’ll randomly pick a winner from the list of comments. I understand not everyone has a strong opinion, but whatever you can contribute will be helpful, and will qualify you to win.
To post your comment, scroll to the bottom (or click on “comments” button in the upper right corner) and enter it. It will show up shortly after. (sometimes it takes a few hours). Make sure you have registered at least once in the past on this blog site, so we can notify you if you are a winner.
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December 17th, 2009 at 2:29 pm
I tried the 24″ spacing at home with my stick in the ground weave poles. To my surprise my dog was faster and didn’t twist soo much. I like it better especially since my dog has Hip dysplasia. I also had just got a brand new set of 20″ so yes I wish I’d knew the change before I got them. I will still use them and my stick in the ground at 24″. My Springer weave like a champ and It doesn’t matter which one I use she will weave. I do like the 24″ better, I think it will be better for medium to big dogs but I don’t know about small dogs, they may not like it.
December 17th, 2009 at 4:35 pm
Our Corgi (12″ tall) learned on the old standard, but goes even faster on the 24″, and I like it because he doesn’t have to twist his long back so much. Our Scotty (13″ – a ‘giant’ Scotty) doesn’t seem to notice the difference and goes great on either our old set in the back yard, or the 24″ a agility class. So smaller dogs don’t seem to have a problem.
All the dogs in our agility class seem to take to the 24″ better.
My understanding is that this will be inline with international competitions.
At this point, I don’t think we’ll need to buy a new set of weave poles until the old ones we have wear out. And by then the 24″ will probably be standard.
December 18th, 2009 at 7:13 am
I heard about the possible change last summer and having a small dog, Corgi, I wasn’t pleased. But since then my instructor has purchased them and that is what we use in class. My little gal has no problem with them. I saw even smaller dogs negotiating them last weekend at our fun league and they had no problem either. Since is will help the spines of the bigger dogs I think it is a good thing. Those of us with smaller dogs will become used to them just like everything else that changes.
December 18th, 2009 at 7:43 am
Our club had two sets of 24″ weave bases built and we used them in October at our AKC trial. There was a lot of controversy about using them but only one dog had a problem with the spacing and only the first time through.
Once the 24″ spacing becomes standard our dogs will be much happier and healthier.
December 18th, 2009 at 7:45 am
I have mixed feelings about the 24″ weave pole spacing. While it seems to be better for large dogs providing a less torqued path for them through the poles, it seems to have taken away from the actually “weaving” motion for the small dogs. It also provides a new challenge to those who do multiple venues. I have witnessed on many accounts large dogs having difficulties going from the 24″ weaves one weekend to the 20-22″ weaves the next weekend. It is amazing to me how much 2″ actually makes a difference. So I am still on the fence about the whole change.
December 18th, 2009 at 8:05 am
I am really pleased that the AKC is changing to 24 inch spacing. I run dogs in several jump heights ranging from 8″ to 26″ and they all seem to be more comfortable and faster with the wider spacing.
December 18th, 2009 at 8:26 am
The change is definatly for the better.
December 18th, 2009 at 8:44 am
I have been trialing in AKC for about 1 year now with my 2 1/2 year old golden retriever, and run at the 24″ height. With a bigger dog, I am sure this may be beneficial as far as speed, but not really sure that it will really have any significant long term health benefits. I will not be purchasing a new set of weave poles as I think that it is the understanding of the motion and will not be any problem to adapt. ( when I buy a new set of weave poles it will be because I am tired of replacing the PVC “T’s” at the bottom as my dog flies thru the weaves and often snaps the “T’s”. I think that they should have addressed the tire instead, making it “breakaway” and not allowing a significant turn out of the tire. My dog hasn’t had an accident, but I have seen a couple. The trial I ran in last weekent had a “180″ out of a tire. Even though we are becoming quite competive as far as placements in Excellent “B” I don’t try to save time at this obstacle. We drove straight thru the tire and then turned after he was safely thru. That all being said, I am in favor of any changes that make the sport safer for the dogs.
Randy Roberts
and Kodiac AX, MXJ
December 18th, 2009 at 8:44 am
I think the 24″ spacing will reduce some of the physical stress on the dog’s body. My hope is that using my old weave pole set to train will help teach my young dog the obstacle, and that the wider spacing will enable him to go faster. We don’t know anyone with a 24″ weave set, unfortunately, so it will be awhile before we can try it. It’s too icy to try the stick-in-the-ground kind right now. Looks like I’ll need to start saving for a new set someday!
December 18th, 2009 at 9:09 am
We had the chance to use the new poles at a trial a few months ago and our Chinooks didn’t seem to notice the difference. Our small dog friends also didn’t have any problems. I think that the wider spacing will be easier on the dogs backs and necks. I watch video of all of my dogs runs and I always cringe when I watch her snapping her back in the poles.
December 18th, 2009 at 9:34 am
I do not participate in AKC, but I know this will trickle down to the other venues. Two inches is a big change. I don’t believe the little dogs will even notice it. My medium and large dogs will definitely be happier. Especially the ones that do not like the poles touching them.
December 18th, 2009 at 9:45 am
well changes are bond to happen with akc as they did.t allow mixed breeds now they do. i have a small dog so it just means it will be more of an chance to pop out. so I will retrain with new spacing.
December 18th, 2009 at 9:49 am
Based on everything I have read regarding neck and spine issues, I welcome to mandatory 24″ spacing.
Where I train, we have a set of 24″ and a set of 21″. The 16″ and under dogs seem to adjust to the 24″ poles fairly easily. I can see the argument for the small dogs and even for the very large dogs where they would prefer something even greater than 24″. I am always amazed at the great danes who can squeeze through the poles and even with speed!
Ideally, there would be changable pole spacing for various heights, but that would be impracticle due to costs to the clubs as well as time during trials to switch out weave pole sets constantly.
December 18th, 2009 at 9:54 am
While I have a border collie and welcome the change to 24″, I can certainly see the concerns handlers of the smaller dogs have.
Where I train they have a set of 21″ and 24″ weave polls. I have not noticed any issues with the < 16″ dogs using the 24″ poles and dogs have an amazing ability to adapt quickly and still keep there weaving speed.
I guess ideally we would have different spacing for various height groups. That would just not be practical due to the costs involved and the amount of time lost in trials for changing weave pole sets.
December 18th, 2009 at 10:00 am
I haven’t had the opportunity to try the 24″ but it just makes sense that it will improve speed. Has there been any discussion about SCT changes?
December 18th, 2009 at 10:21 am
I recently purchased the new 24″ spacing poles from you,I’m hoping they work better.I haven’t used them as yet because my trainer still uses the old ones. I’m afraid they will confuse him.He has a trial in a few weeks.If health being the issue here, I’m all for the new 24″.
December 18th, 2009 at 10:30 am
I have not tried the new spacing yet but I think it will be good for the “furries” as there will not be so much pressure put on the spine therefore I am all for it. Not so good that we now have to purchase new 24 inch spacing sets nor the clubs as these will be longer therefore harder to pack and manouvre.
Having said that I am wondering whether My little guys, 8 inches, will be allowed to carry a GPS system to find their way threw. Where do I apply for permission???? LOL!
December 18th, 2009 at 10:52 am
I have built new weaves to train this 24″ change. My dogs do fine with it. I am of the opinion that once they know the obstacle, they know what to look for at any distance. I have Cairn Terriers (8 inch jumpers),and the shorter distance wasn’t an issue for us, but I also run my mom’s Bearded Collie and I can see a big benefit for him! Kudos to AKC for trying to be responsive.
December 18th, 2009 at 10:52 am
I’ve been using 24″ at home and our club uses them. So when we entered a trial and I came to their 20″ weave poles, I thought, “Oh them.” There’s a considerable difference just on the performance. My Dobie had a little struggle with them and I found myself having to weave her through. We’re novice, so I wasn’t expecting a bullet, but I think the spacing definitely threw her off.
The bottom line is that 24″ is kinder to our dogs’ bodies. The small dogs may have a bigger challenge with the wider spacing, but compared to big-dog physical issues with the smaller-spaced weaves, I think the trade-off is worth every expanded inch.
December 18th, 2009 at 12:01 pm
I have a set of 12 20 inch poles and a set of 6 20 inch 2×2s, although I do not have Susan’s video. My Belgians have learned, trained and competed with the 20’s. I was overjoyed when the local clubs started using the 24 inch poles and then AKC recommended to its Board that 24 inch become mandatory. Weaving with 20 inch poles bends a dogs spine in THREE places, and because of that, I very seldom practiced weaving. I just purchased 24 ” poles, in fact I chose 6 sets of 2X2’s to make the shipping affordable. The oversize boxes pushes shipping of 12 weave poles to $220 rather than the $100 I paid! Now that I have 24 inch poles, I am practicing distance entries from “around the clock” daily and my dogs are weaving with focus, accuracy and joy. Even if AKC does not approve the new spacing, I know that my dogs’ bodies are being preserved, and that, above all else, is the point.
December 18th, 2009 at 12:10 pm
I love the 24″ spacing. I run shelties and a border collie and they both just love it. My sheltie is 13 and he just flies through them. In watching dogs weave with the 24″ spacing, their spine is not being jolted back and forth. I have seen a couple of dogs who used to avoid them now are finding and weaving so much better. I have watched a lot of little dogs and they, too, seem to love the new spacing. I am so in favor of any improvement that will lengthen a dogs structural life.
December 18th, 2009 at 12:18 pm
We used 24″ poles at a recent fun match, while I was busy ensuring my novice old english sheepdog actually managed the weaves, a worker pointed out how much faster she was on the 24″ and how much easier it looked for her to do them.
December 18th, 2009 at 12:21 pm
I think the 24″ spacing will help out my large shepherd. With the current spacing he is almost 4 poles long. Hopefully the new spacing will make it easier on him.
December 18th, 2009 at 12:25 pm
I am definitly for the increase spacing not only for the health of the spin but for other less common injuries. Often when my weim tries to go really fast through the weaves, she catches her inside hind leg at the stifle on the pole she has just rounded and crossing in front of. Not only does this inflick the pain of impact but also causes the sudden stop of forward motion by grabbing the back leg. Although not often, I have seen this happen to other large dogs at trials and practice.
As far as confusing dogs that have to be able to perform both 20″ and 24″. I would think that if you practice 20″ and all other venues are 20″, that two runs a day at an AKC trial won’t cause the dog too much problem. I could see where the dog’s timing might be off causing it to be a bit slower, but it should be safer. I would always choose safety over placements when it comes to my dog.
December 18th, 2009 at 1:08 pm
I’m lucky as I am just getting started with my Aussie. Our club has already gone to the 24″ and he is training on them. I feel bad for those who purchased the smaller widths and need to go through the expense of getting new ones, but I think in the long run it will be so much better for the health of our dogs and isn’t that the most important thing of all?
December 18th, 2009 at 1:25 pm
Bravo! Health and safety of our team mates should always be the driving force in equipment decisions and the AKC is definitely making the right move on this one.
Great call!
Jeff
December 18th, 2009 at 1:34 pm
I think this is a good thing – it’s is gonna keep the dog’s spine from twisting. Especially for the long backed dogs (ie the corgis). Once the dog knows the obstacle I think the change will be easy to make.
December 18th, 2009 at 1:42 pm
I was concerned that the smaller dogs might have a problem with the larger width between poles, but it sounds like a lot of people have already tried it and found the greater distance not to be a problem. I think it’s a good idea as long as the welfare of the dogs has been carefully thought out. I haven’t tried it yet, but I would also train the different widths so that my dogs wouldn’t have a problem whichever poles were used.
December 18th, 2009 at 1:48 pm
The 24″ weave pole spacing is more comfortable for the dogs, and IMO all dogs – big dogs, small dogs. All you have to do is watch the dogs weaving 21″ spacing versus 24″ spacing. I have had TWO Giant Schnauzers train up in my agility program and it is really hard for me not to stand there and cringe as they manipulate the 21″ spacing and I have actually advised those teams to pull their dogs if they were ever presented with smaller spacing than that (18″ to 20″) in a trial. Those same dogs weaving in 24″ spacing look like Border Collies weaving!!! In the same breath, to date, I have not had a small dog even seem to notice. My hope is that ALL venues standardize the WP spacing to 24″. We have to think about the dogs and what is best for them. And IMO, when we know better, then we should do better.
December 18th, 2009 at 2:06 pm
I just learned of the change and like most have the old sets. I have big dogs just learning so were not fastby any means. I’ve worried about possible back & neck problems when I see the others bend between 2-3 poles seemingly at the same time. We have club members with big dogs & small long-bodied dogs with back & neck problems so I’m sure that it will be better for the dogs physically to have more space. I look forward to trying the new poles and maybe the “in” & “out” will make more sense to my dogs. I have a female Rottie that looks at me as if to say, “didn’t we already do that ?” when we do the weave poles. I would love to learn to do 12 poles in 12 days with her.
December 18th, 2009 at 2:40 pm
I’m all for rules that promote common sense and safety for the canine athletes. 24″ spacing still provides plenty of challenge for all competitors.
December 18th, 2009 at 3:18 pm
Added manually by Agility Fusion:
Hi Pam, I had trouble entering the comment contest so I am emailing you instead. I know more about agility than computers. I would like to say that any safety consideration is valuable to preventing sports injuries to our dogs. It is all about fun and safety.
I love my new Affordable Agility Tetter Totter and so does Twister. He has already gained more confidence. By the way I use two commands for the obstacle. Walk it and ride it! It helps. ~Catherine Brown
December 18th, 2009 at 4:51 pm
I love the change, but wish the 24″ weaves would have been available when I bought my sets of weaves last summer
December 18th, 2009 at 7:37 pm
I love the new spacing! My 7 yr Rottweiler is very good but was very careful on the weaves and as a result we could never use them as part of our fast plan. Since we have been using the 24″ in class she has become very fast on the weaves and loves them, smiling all the way. Many of my clients have also tried them and have the same positive response!
December 18th, 2009 at 9:54 pm
This AKC change is just as exciting as when USDAA finally lowered the AF. My friends in the Northwest have had 24″ in trials for a while and I was so jealous.
My 24″ labs get Chrio treatments every month and “sore back” was a given. We have had the 24″ poles in trials for last 3 months and their backs are no longer sore.
We have been competing for a while with either 20″ or 22″ spacing. Last summer I purchased 22″ and will keep them for practice and USDAA trials may still have 22″
Cheers,
December 18th, 2009 at 10:12 pm
Since this would put less stress on the dog’s spine, I’m for the 24″ spacing. I think it would still make the weaves exciting and a challenge, even with the wider spacing.
December 18th, 2009 at 10:22 pm
1. easier on dogs just learning to weave
2. easier for bigger dogs; they won’t have to bend as
much to get through the weave poles
December 18th, 2009 at 11:08 pm
We were lucky enough to try out the 24″ weaves at a trial recently. It was the BEST! My Aussie girl had no problem with the spacing and actually seemed to fly through it much faster. She even had a smile on her face. No, I didn’t see it when we were running. Someone took photos and sure enough–lots of teeth and tongue!
December 19th, 2009 at 2:09 am
AKC NEW REGULATION on 24″ weaves.
My 6 yr old Aussie girl has had to do it ALL! 22 inch/or 24 inch in her agility career. I usually know ahead of time which set the club putting on the trial will use and practice on that particular width a few days beforehand. I run trials in different venues that have different spaceing on weaves – so had to make her a versatile dog on the weaves. She actually prefers the tighter weaves because that is what she learned on originally before I had to do the 24″ with her. HMMMMM – Now I have a young border collie pup that I will be starting shortly and wonder what is the best spaceing to start her with?
Logic seems to dictate the tighter ones – then the wider spacing will be easier — still debating that one in my mind. Versatility is the ultimate goal – so the more versatile a dog can perform then the more brain and muscles power the dog has to put to use. The goal for success is to have fun doing it with your dog – and certainly the 24″ spacing is definitely physically more kind on the dogs.
Veronica
December 19th, 2009 at 12:39 pm
My Border Collie, Chaney was having trouble with the weaves because of her speed. She hits the poles so hard that they come back to hit her in the face causing her to pop out at times. We have been showing with 24′ weaves at local trials for the last 3 months and she has had much better performance with the weaves. I think the new spacing will be very good for our fast dogs.
December 19th, 2009 at 12:46 pm
We just started into agility this past February with our rescue puppy, Jenna, so we were first introduced to the 20 inch weave poles. However, in the meantime, our girl, who ended up being half Great Dane is now almost 90 pounds and stands 28 inches at the shoulder. While she was able to handle the 20 inch poles, we re-rigged our home poles to be 24 inch. It took awhile for her to get used to the new distance, but she is now plowing through the 24 inch ones like an expert. Also, great not to see her body so contorted trying to make the sharp turns of the 20 inch ones. My only thought is why not have both size available? Go by height. Let the little dogs have the 20 inch poles and let the bigger dogs do the 24 inch. They have to change the jump heights. Why not have one set of 20 inch poles on one side of the ring and the 24 inch on the other and have the judges work the appropriate size into the course depending on height of dog?
December 19th, 2009 at 1:42 pm
Hooray! This is an important step in helping our dogs have safer runs and keeping their backs and joints healthy. I too hope it trickles down to the other venues. I’ve watched many of my friends and competitors withdraw their dogs from runs with narrow weaves rather than risk injury. This is great news.
December 19th, 2009 at 2:27 pm
We learned on the shorter spacing in the US with my first dog, and then moved to Europe with the second and trained with 24″ spacing. You do not see as many dogs popping out, and I think it is because there is less pain or discomfort caused by weaving the longer poles.
December 19th, 2009 at 4:32 pm
I cannot express how happy I am that they have made the change to 24″ spacing! When you have a Cane Corso, like me, it’s hard for him to get into thse tight poles, which caused lots of popping out. He tries to hard to single step the 19″ poles but can’t fit. I’m so happy that finally, my big boy will be able to single step with ease! It will make him so happy, as well as my border collie and myself! This will prevent spine damage to the big dogs as well as the smaller ones. Thanks AKC!
December 19th, 2009 at 5:46 pm
I am anxious to see how my Springer does. It seems like a good idea, especially for the bigger dogs. I am wondering if all trials will convert immediately? If not it could be confusing for both dog and handler.
December 19th, 2009 at 11:45 pm
I believe that all in all the 24″ weaves will be a great improvement. I can see how it will improve speed and I believe it will be easier to train on than the tighter ones. I have Jack Russells and they don’t care if they are wider, they just stretch further and get more speed.
December 20th, 2009 at 12:55 pm
We LOVE the 24″ inch weave pole spacing! I have a 24″ Dal who has great weaves, regardless of the spacing, but is clearly more comfortable in the 24″ weaves. Personally, I have yet to see any dogs (big or small) struggle with the change. For us, this is a much welcomed change and I’d love to see other venues jump on board!
December 21st, 2009 at 9:10 am
I would like to see the poles changing to 24″ spacing because of the risk of injury to the spine in the smaller spacings. I have whippets and have not tried the larger spacing yet, but I am looking forward to the opportunity. I have friends with deerhound and wolfhounds who can’t wait to see the change.
December 21st, 2009 at 10:37 am
I think it is fantastic that 24″ weavepoles will be required. I compete with a Shiba Inu, Rhodesian Ridgeback and Canaan dog. These are not your typical agility breed dogs. My Shiba and Rhodesian do not “bend” like a border collie and other breeds that are more structurally built for agility. I had the opportunity to compete with the 24″ poles recently and my dogs were faster and “happier”. Happy is what it’s all about!
December 21st, 2009 at 11:15 am
I run Rotweillers. I will look forward to the 24 inches because when they get moving faster, it is often the last weave pole they miss because they can not twist quite enough.
December 21st, 2009 at 11:23 am
I am very new in Agility. In fact, Charlie my Pembroke Corgi and I haven’t even been in competition yet. We recently have begun training in advanced agility. Subsequently, I needed to buy a weave pole set. Fortunately, I purchased a set from Affordable Agility and the beginning weave pole set is already 24″! I can see having 24″ poles would be more beneficial for owners of large dogs and the long backed dogs like my Charlie. So I hame happy that the AKC is making the change. It would be very nice if all the clubs would be consistant and make the same change to 24″ weaves.
December 21st, 2009 at 11:31 am
I am not sure if my dog and I have even encountered 24” poles yet (we don’t do AKC), but have heard many favorable reviews from others.
December 21st, 2009 at 11:35 am
Change, change, oh my! Its inevitable…the more we know the more we improve. I feel that the change is more of a fear of the handler than the agility dog. We humans have a more difficult time adapting. Its all part of the fun to meet new challenges. Also the biggest issue is the safety of our agility dogs which is the first concern of all handlers!!! Lets welcome the change and challenge our abilitys as well as our agility dogs. Lets see what we are made of! wha Hoo!! Happy Holidays and may the new year be full of agility fun!!
December 21st, 2009 at 11:36 am
My two schnauzers are still learning to weave, so I am not sure it will make a big difference to us one way or the other, however, the bummer is I recently bought a really nice set of 6 sets of 2×2s that are 21″.
Kaye
December 21st, 2009 at 11:50 am
I love the idea of 24″ spacing, I run dobermans. What I am concerned about is the fact that AKC will allow clubs 2 years to replace their current weave poles. What will happen with all the people who replace and train on the new spacing and then go to a trial that has old poles?
December 21st, 2009 at 12:27 pm
I haven’t personally had the opportunity to try 24″ weaves yet, but I’m looking forward to trying them. I’ve seen my dogs have problems collecting and then popping out at the second pole because they were unable to stay in the weaves. I think that the 24″ spacing will be much easier on their bodies, and let us continue to play agility into their teen years.
While they are currently legal under AKC regs (and several other venues), my husband is the equipment manager for our local club, and he has been reluctant to change unless it becomes mandated (especially since very few,if any, other area clubs have changed). So I’m hoping AKC will require them.
December 21st, 2009 at 12:43 pm
I, too, love the idea of the 24″ spacing. My english setters do fine on the weaves now but and I might not replace our standard ones but I believe it will be much better for their long backs.
December 21st, 2009 at 1:10 pm
I can see the problem a large dog could have with the present spacing – I have a “Schnoodle” so it does not really affect me except that I will have to buy new weave poles! Anything that make the agility arena a safer place for our dear friends is a good move.
December 21st, 2009 at 1:27 pm
As the owner of a large dog, I’m very pleased by the change.
December 21st, 2009 at 1:31 pm
There’s been a discussion about this change on the PWD list serve. I think it is a good idea to make the spacing a bit wider to save the dog’s spine and make it a tad easier. Have heard from several people on the list that the dogs have a much easier and faster time with the wider spacing, but that if they go back to tigher spacing, they are prone to bang their heads on the poles. So far people are advocating still training to both tighter spacing and wider spacing so the dog will be prepared for whatever comes their way.
I have stick in the ground poles, so it doesn’t matter to me if the spacing changes.
December 21st, 2009 at 1:49 pm
I’m all for any change that takes the health and welfare of our dogs into account. I agree with posters who feel that the two years to comply rule for clubs is too generous. Give everyone 6 months to comply – AKC will be surprised how quickly clubs find a way to get the money for new poles…
December 21st, 2009 at 3:12 pm
I’m new to Agility and have little of value to add to this discussion. But since Betsy (Puggle) and I are just learning to weave, we really, really need the 12 X 12 video. So, I’m putting my name in the hat.
December 21st, 2009 at 3:17 pm
The change is better for the dogs health so I say it’s a good one.
December 21st, 2009 at 3:47 pm
I am new to agility and so eager to learn!! It didn’t take me long to learn that weave poles may be my nemesis… I sure could benefit from the 2 x 2 video! Love the blog!
December 21st, 2009 at 3:48 pm
Two of my Aussies weave really well but one has consistently had problems. I’ll be curious to see if the 24″ spacing makes a difference for any of them. Will my poor weaver have fewer problems or will my good weavers stay good or develop new problems? Won’t know till we try it.
December 21st, 2009 at 4:53 pm
Who’s to say 24″ is best? What about 26 or 28 or 30″? With
the upper range of USDAA’s spec at 22″, and AKC & CPE at up to 24″, you could use the same for all venues. I have seen no appreciable difference between 22 & 24″ weaves with my Rottie and Malinois. Both are great. I am glad that USDAA did away with weaves under 20″. The dogs I’ve seen that slam through the poles will do so at whatever the measurement is, and I believe this will cause more shoulder and neck injuries than to spines behind the shoulders.
December 21st, 2009 at 5:17 pm
I have Ridgebacks and they have an easier time with the 24″ poles. We have a set of the 2 by 2s that are 24″ and my dogs aren’t as prone to popping out at #10 with a 24″ spacing. I’m definitely on track with this welcomed change!
December 21st, 2009 at 5:55 pm
Our club just purchased a set of 24 inche weaves and we used them in our trial Thanksgiving Weekend. None of the dogs had a problem with them. I will continue to use my 20 inch weaves for my own training and to start dogs in the weaves when we do not use the 2X2 method. Going between the 20 & 24 inch spacing may be difficult for larger dogs (when going from the 24 back to 20) but I think medium and small dogs will not find it too difficult.
December 21st, 2009 at 6:04 pm
Hi Pamela….
I am pretty new to the sport (4 years approx), so have not been aware of injuries or spinal problems caused by the distance between weave poles as they have been…..I have mostly small dogs of various breeds but do have a boxer and a couple of JR/Dachshund/???? mixes, but 6 of the 9 are small rescues that all love to play Agility even if for some it is just recreational…….I have no strong opinion , but if it is safer for the larger dogs that do hit the poles hard with their shoulders, then I am for it to keep them healthier and less apt to have injuries later in life as a result of the hard back and forth jumping thru the weaves…..So there is my opinion and thanks for asking……
I am traveling from Mississippi to Iowa for the Holidays… And yes, they all go with me and are great travelers and very patient from point A to point B…..Just wish we had a motorhome for our adventures, but maybe someday……we travel in a 2000 Ford F-150 Supercrew and the backseat is one large doggie bed with the barrier between front and back to keep the pack in the back…..No room for crates until we get there and then I unpack the bed of the truck…..
Thanks and keeping my fingers X for the drawing/random pick as I love Susan Garrett Instructional videos and do not have the video you are giving away, so will just hope we are lucky…..
Thank You
Ron Lewis
December 21st, 2009 at 6:10 pm
I am a newbie to agility. Haven’t competed yet. I asked Santa for a set of weave poles for my Welsh Terrier. I am happy to read that Affordable Agility is ready with 24″ poles.
December 21st, 2009 at 7:21 pm
I think this change is a great improvement. For everyone competing in agility with their dogs, besides having fun, the #1 priority should be safety. I think the 24″ spacing will help to make dogs just starting out with weave poles to enjoy the obstacle more and also will help them learn it quicker. I don’t think small dogs will notice the difference as much as big dogs will, and I think bog dogs will very much appreiate the extra 2 inches! I think this change will be very beneficial to agility, and promote safer runs and will hopefully also promote more Qs!
December 21st, 2009 at 7:47 pm
I am new to agaility so my dog won’t know the difference. I could use the free DVD!
December 21st, 2009 at 8:52 pm
I am new to agility and am almost 11 years old. I plan to compete with my collie, so I am glad that the new standard is 24″.
December 21st, 2009 at 11:20 pm
I too am new to agility & just “broke down” & purchased expensive weave poles. Ahhhg, I wish I knew things were going to change, but the big picture is I believe it will be better for our dogs health & that’s what matters most!
December 21st, 2009 at 11:26 pm
I haven’t trained weaves yet-but will train on the 24″, particularly if it is safer for my dogs. I am in favor of anything that will increase the safety and decrease the strain on my dog’s body.
December 22nd, 2009 at 8:24 am
I LOVE the new spacing for weave poles! I have a 3yr. old, 48 pd Border Collie who has always struggled with the old 20″ spacing. I could never trust that he was going to stay in the poles. He also goes so darn fast through them, he builds momentum, then extends his stride & ends up popping a pole. We’ve been training the new 24″ spacing since July…LOVE it! It’s hard for me to get him to make a mistake now!
December 22nd, 2009 at 9:54 am
I am very happy with the decision to go to 24″ — having fast German Shorthairs I think the bigger spacing will benefit them greatly.
December 22nd, 2009 at 5:19 pm
I do believe 24″ spacing is better for the dogs, and I like having standardized spacing. I hope more venues follow the standard spacing idea. The only thing I don’t like is the fact that 24″ pole spacing makes it harder to fit 12 poles in my practice area! But it is worth it for less stress on the dogs.
December 22nd, 2009 at 9:41 pm
I love the two by two’s we are new to the weave poles and my Kiya loves learning to weave with them she knows the correct entry. We are up to weave four poles almost in a straight line. I would love to win Susan Garrets DVD it would be a great learn asset.
December 23rd, 2009 at 12:19 am
Equipment specifications should address canine health and safety first. Tradition is hardly a rationale reason for keeping the old spacing. Weave pole spacing should safely accommodate the largest, longest dogs.
December 23rd, 2009 at 5:28 am
I don’t compete so am probably not running my Aussies at the speeds of some of you folks – but my thought is that once the dogs know the behavior well, a change in the spacing will not affect them after their first run through. I have ’stick-in’ weave poles and my ground is now frozen so can’t use them – but you can be sure that next spring I will try the 24″ spacing.
December 24th, 2009 at 5:16 pm
It’s great for the larger dogs if research shows that it’s better for their health to change the spacing to 24 inches between weave poles. I’d like to see studies about changing the spacing of the weave poles for the smaller dogs before any change though. The goal is to do these obstacles in a safer, healthy manner to lengthen the amount time we can do agility with our dogs. I think information is needed before smaller dogs are subjected to changes that might not be healthy or prudent. Why can’t there be two sets of weaves with different spacing for smaller dogs? After all the A frame is adjusted, why not weaves too?
December 27th, 2009 at 2:30 am
Change is good. I know that people will not be used to the new spacing and a typical reaction is to try to resist change. Try it, you may like it (or perhaps your dog will!) The only downside is that many of us will have to buy or make new weave pole sets.
December 27th, 2009 at 11:38 am
Just a few inches can make a huge difference. The dogs will have to relearn weaves. Why would we want to do that when the weaves are so difficult to begin with.
December 28th, 2009 at 10:51 am
As a health care professional and former back surgery patient I am cautious of twist and turns to the spinal cord. I remember the pain all too well and don’t want to expose my pup to the same misery. As a novice, our first competition will be in January, I have invested in 22″ weave poles. Hopefully, this won’t make a difference. My dog is a female Vizsla, whose not very large for her breed. However, I am happy for any changes that take our dogs’ health into consideration. I may need to ask for new weave poles for my birthday in April.
December 30th, 2009 at 10:05 am
I am a strong fan of safety first before anything and feel this is important for the safety for the larger dogs. On the other hand, what about the smaller dogs. They are still required to run the same course, the same heights as the larger dogs. In this respect AKC needs to look at all the obstacles, etc to make sure it is safe for all size dogs or accomodate the course for the different size dogs. Yes, they adjust the time but that is it. I want my dog to do the best she can do but I always look at two things first: safety and more importantly is she having fun, then we excell from there.
December 30th, 2009 at 10:08 am
Weave poles, a challenge for us at any spacing. Having a “not-your-typical agility dog.” a Maltese, I can see him having some trouble. He has spun in the weaves and still manage to “save it.” That being said, I think it will be safer for the big guys. That’s the most important thing.
December 30th, 2009 at 11:09 am
I am thrilled about the new 24″ spacing. My 25″ Lab can be around 4 poles and I worry what that can do to his body in the long ter. Asan AKC judge who has judged several trials that have the 24″ polesI have seen no problems with the very small dogs wit hthem. I remember one 8 pound pomeranian that just flew through them. Challenges in agility vary greatly for different size dogs, tunnel are difficult forthe giant breeds, off courses are more of an issue for them, the A frame may be a challenge for some smaller and long backed dogs. The hiehgt is lowering for the smallest dogs. All in all I think the committee’s recommentations are very good and take into account issue for all dogs as best as possible.
As to having to purchase new poles, clubs will not have to purchase new ones right away, but will be given time extra time to purchase them, they will not be required as soon as the new rules take affect.
December 30th, 2009 at 11:53 am
As a owner and handler of a Labrador Retriever, I think this will be better for him. I haven’t tried it, but plan to in the next few days to see if there’s a difference. I think there will be, at least for large dogs.
December 30th, 2009 at 12:28 pm
My Sheltie’s favorite obstacle is the Weave Poles and either is fine for us, but I am all about avoiding Injuries to any of the dogs.
December 30th, 2009 at 12:33 pm
I am excited for the new weave pole spacing. I had big dogs who had a tough time with the weaves, and I think this would have made it easier for them. Now I am starting with a new puppy (not agility training yet–just basic obedience) and I am glad to know that those who use the new spacing say it works equally well for small dogs.
December 30th, 2009 at 2:31 pm
I am very happy about the new weave pole spacing. I have a 16″ dog, a Jack Russell Terrier, who trained on 18″ poles, and is now weaving on 21″ or 22″, mostly in NADAC but I think the wider the better for all dog’s health and longevity in the sport. I hope USDAA follows suit as well.
Nancy and Stewie JRT
December 30th, 2009 at 5:18 pm
My Lab and I do agility. My club has been using the 24″ poles and I think he is going faster through them. I will continue to practice with my old poles since I use them just to make sure he enters correctly and will go through all 12. I think the 24″ poles will be safer for all the bigger dogs and unfortunately the little ones will have more ground to cover.
December 30th, 2009 at 8:04 pm
Safety should be our primary concern when playing with our dogs. I’m glad to hear some more experienced handlers say that smaller dogs don’t seem to be affected with the extra distance. I hope I got this in on time. I sent a comment several weeks ago but since I don’t see it in the postings, I guess I did something wrong. Technology is not my strong point. I’d love to win the video.
December 30th, 2009 at 8:11 pm
I have not had an opportunity to try the new spacing and my concern was that it would cause problems for my dog. However the preceding comments seem to indicate that most dogs are adapting very well. If that is the case, and it better medically for the larger dogs, than I am all for it.
December 30th, 2009 at 8:28 pm
I have a tall standard poodle, and although he does fine with the current weaves, I think this will be better for him both for health and speed. I already have weave poles, and will not buy new ones at this time, but when he’s trying to go fast and under the pressure of the match, I think the 24 inch should help, not hinder.
December 31st, 2009 at 11:43 am
I have a very large Rhodesian Ridgeback 30″ and welcome the change. Sometimes for the safty of all dogs people have to be inconvienced. If you have just purchased the smaller spacing poles- you should have waited. This has been in the works for sometime now. If you need to retrain spacing just get the stick in the ground poles and save up for a new set when you have to train a new dog. That’s my plan.
February 5th, 2010 at 3:11 pm
IMO, the change cannot come fast enough. We’re starting to see 24″ poles more and more often in AKC competition here in New England(legal but not required) – I think mainly because the hosting facilities own exclusively 24″ poles. I’m hopeful that the AKC agility board will take the committees recommendations and officially mandate exclusively 24″ spacing…
My dog on both 20″ and 24″ poles (the day after my new 24″ poles arrived):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=raLdvCVJoKY
February 5th, 2010 at 3:17 pm
Thanks for your comment- GREAT vid! Your dog definitely moves more fluidly through the 24″ spacing! Glad you’re enjoying your new equipment.