Feeding routines
Should I feed my dog before or after agility class
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
A small, light snack a couple of hours before class is usually fine, but the main meal is best saved for after the session once your dog has cooled down and settled. Agility involves fast running, jumping and quick turns, exactly the kind of activity that is best kept away from a full stomach.
Fuelling without overfilling
Dogs competing or training in agility often do best with a small, easily digested snack an hour or two before class rather than either a completely empty stomach or a full meal, since low energy mid session is its own problem.
Why the main meal waits
The jumping, weaving and sharp turns involved in agility are a demanding combination for a full stomach, so feeding the main meal after class, once your dog has had 20 to 30 minutes to settle, is the more common approach among handlers.
Adjusting for competition day
On a competition day with several runs across a few hours, small water breaks and a light snack between runs work better than either fasting all day or a heavy meal beforehand, since both extremes affect performance and comfort.
Key takeaways
- A light snack an hour or two beforehand supports energy without overfilling the stomach.
- The main meal is best saved for after the session.
- Agility's jumping and turning make full stomach timing especially relevant.
- Small snacks between runs work better than fasting or a heavy pre class meal.