Q-Me Agility Training

16/10/2025

https://www.dogagilityperformance.com/podcasts/the-champion-s-journey/episodes/2149099116

I was invited to do a podcast with Chris (hot Chris as he’s known to the g**s 🤣🤣) so how could I say no to that body…I mean face 🤣🤣

In this episode of The Champion’s Journey, host Christoffer Endresen sits down with Dave Munnings, one of the most respected figures in the world of dog agility. The episode opens with a heartfelt tribute to John Nys, the beloved U.S. team leader and influential member of the agility community, who recently passed away.

Dave shares his personal journey from his early beginnings in agility to becoming a world-class competitor in the sport. He reflects on how handling techniques have evolved over the years and how his professional career has been shaped.

The conversation explores a range of insightful topics, from the progression of agility course design to the critical importance of proper warm-ups and cool-downs for canine athletes. Dave also discusses his experiences at major events such as Olympia and the World Championships, offering behind-the-scenes perspectives on what it takes to perform at the highest level.

Further, he delves into his contributions to the UK agility scene and shares exciting updates about his latest venture, Nexus Agility. The episode closes with Dave’s reflections on patience, perseverance, and the vital role that strong support systems play in achieving lasting success in agility training.

And BIG NEWS - He is getting a sheltie!

Timestamps
00:00 In Memory of John Nys
02:59 Introduction to The Champion’s Journey Podcast
04:01 Meet Dave Munnings: Agility Champion
08:04 Dave’s Early Days in Agility
11:12 Competing on the World Stage
14:05 The Evolution of Agility Training
29:02 The Importance of Warm-Up and Cool-Down
31:33 Reflecting on Dobby’s Retirement
33:00 Transitioning to a New Dog
33:47 Adapting to New Handling Techniques
36:59 The Evolution of Agility Courses
41:13 Support Systems in Agility Training
45:16 Challenges and Changes in UK Agility
51:10 Traveling for Competitions Post-Brexit
53:02 Memorable Moments and Achievements
55:11 Lessons Learned from Dogs
57:28 Future Plans and New Adventures
59:59 Podcast Conclusion and Gratitude

In this episode of The Champion’s Journey, host Christoffer Endresen sits down with Dave Munnings, one of the most respected figures in the world of dog agility. The episode opens with a heartfelt tribute to John Nys, the beloved U.S. team leader and influential member of the agility community,...

15/10/2025

🤣🤣 how is she still so fast at 14! Anyone else have this? 🤣🤣

07/10/2025

Let’s talk about startline set ups 🏁

I talk a lot about dogs lines within agility and the startline is no exception. When positioning before we lead out, we ideally want their nose and shoulders facing their approach to number 2.

In the contacts picture (A), we want them fully straight as they approach number 2 so that we don’t risk any paws slipping off. If they are positioned angled… there is more risk of them not approaching the contact safely as they have to bend themselves around to make the entrance.

If we set them up in line with the contact but they are facing a different direction - this means they still have to straighten themselves up upon release (yellow line). This is why shoulders to 2 is so important.

In the second picture (B), number 2 is a backside. So positioning their shoulders to point straight at 1 (red line) would mean they have to twist on landing to get to 2. Neither of these are necessarily unsafe but it’s harder on their body, it would cost us time, and if there are other obstacles around they may drive towards them instead.

But if we set up on a slice (green line), the dogs shoulders are going to be immediately travelling on the direct route to their take off point on 2.

It’s also a good rule of thumb to set dogs up with room to take 2 strides before the first jump. This does depend on the dog and the type of start - for example if we are asking for a turn we may benefit from a closer start. Or a dog that likes chasing and needs some motivation may benefit from a bigger run up. But for most dogs - 2 strides is a good reference point 💜

05/10/2025

Memories 💜 my first red collie Dobby at EO… 2010!

Back when the soft tunnel existed 😂😂

03/10/2025

More incredible work from the Q-Me gang 💜💜💜

Absolutely smashing it from all over the world 🌍🧡

01/10/2025

⭐️ NEW ⭐️ Backstage Pass module!!

Watch me train 'behind the scenes' - the good the bad and the ugly… and I'm sure there will be some outtakes!

This module is not structured like the others - it’s mostly just raw unedited footage of me training my dogs. This isn't just about the exercises… it’s about the interaction with the dogs, the toy play, the reward, the relationship, how to work through issues when they go wrong and just general dog training. 💜

www.qme-agility.co.uk

01/10/2025

Happy 3rd birthday to my very special 40 🎉

I love how you’re completely ignorant to everyone else around you and the harder they try to get your attention the harder you try to ignore them, you only have eyes for your pappa and this melts my heart and makes me laugh 🤣🤣 your perfect world would be you, me and agility…..nothing much else really matters to you 🤣

Keep being your perfect amazing self, I’m excited about our agility future together 🩷🩷