Novice is truly for the first time JR competitor, canine or human. A score of 190 reflects a dog who is working confidently and who should be ready to move on. A dog that has scored 190 or better in the Novice class is ready for Advanced On-Lead and is then required to exhibit in that class. Three qualifying scores, in either the Novice or Advanced level of competition, are acceptable for a dog to receive it on-lead Agility Certificate. This means once the terrier has received three qualifying scores, not when you physically receive the certificate.
Control is a necessity in agility.
A leash is allowed at this level only to prevent terriers from running off. It is not intended to be used by an exhibitor to force a dog to complete the obstacles. Hence, penalties are assessed in scoring agility for tight leads and leash pulls. ALL terriers must be one year of age and older to compete in any Agility Class or practice in run throughs. Handlers may NOT jump over fences in any classes.