The owner gives direction and serves as the coach, while the dog completes the timed course. Agility is truly an enjoyable activity for a Briard. Of the AKC sanctioned events, agility is the most fun for the animal. The dog enjoys the challenge, fast pace, and freedom that Agility has to offer. Briards and owners bond, as they work through the challenges of each obstacle.
Agility is a strenuous activity for both dog and owner, thus, proper conditioning is critical.
It is also important to not start the young Briard too soon, as the bone and joints are not fully developed in the young animal. Strenuous activity, particularly jumping, before a Briard reaches one year of age can contribute to severe skeletal diseases, like hip dysplasia. So start slow and wait until your Briard has matured prior to starting serious training. Agility requires that the dog be off leash, and yet still be under control. Thus, the Briard needs to understand the basic obedience commands to successfully compete in this event.