Exercise and play
How do I set up a simple home agility course?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
A simple home agility setup, a few PVC pipe jumps, a tunnel made from a collapsible fabric tunnel or a row of chairs draped with a sheet, and a scattering of cones or boxes for weaving, gives a dog a fun way to combine physical movement with problem solving in a backyard or even a large room.
Basic equipment that costs very little
PVC pipes and pool noodles make adjustable height jumps, cardboard boxes or kitchen chairs work as weave markers, and a cheap fabric tunnel or a blanket draped over two chairs covers the tunnel obstacle without needing specialized equipment.
Teaching the first obstacle
Starting with a jump bar resting flat on the ground rather than raised, luring the dog over it with a treat, and gradually raising it a few centimeters at a time builds confidence before moving on to the tunnel, which is usually taught by tossing treats through the opening.
Building a simple sequence
Once a dog knows two or three individual obstacles, chaining them together into a short sequence adds mental challenge on top of the physical movement, and keeping sessions to 10 to 15 minutes keeps the activity fun rather than becoming repetitive drilling.
Key takeaways
- PVC pipes, chairs, and a fabric tunnel or blanket create a functional home agility course cheaply.
- Teaching obstacles individually, starting low and building up, works better than a full course on day one.
- Short 10 to 15 minute sessions keep the activity engaging rather than turning into repetitive drilling.