There are several great options for dog agility near DC. If you are interested in starting agility with your dog, or recently moved to DC and want to continue the sport, I recommend one of these four agility facilities: A Click Above, Level Up Dog Sports, Dynamic Dogs, Capital Dog Training Club. While a bit of a drive from the nation’s capital, these facilities are definitely the best in the area.
Unfortunately, DC lacks any elite agility centers inside city limits. While there are a few trainers who offer “agility for fun”, I do not recommend these if you have any interest in competing in the sport.
Where To Do Agility Near DC: Virginia
A Click Above
Located in Leesburg, A Click Above is Northern Virginia’s premier agility training facility and is a great option for those looking to do agility near DC. Their instructors bring years of experience and proven success, making this the go-to spot for anyone on the Virginia side of D.C. The world-class facility can run two classes at once, giving students more scheduling options. They regularly host AKC, UKI, and USDAA trials. Because of their proximity to D.C., classes fill quickly. New students should be ready to register the moment sign-ups open, as waitlists are common. Classes are typically offered Monday through Thursday in the evening.
Level Up Dog Sports
Located just north of Richmond, Level Up Dog Sports is an excellent option for those looking do dog agility near DC who live south of the city on the Virginia side. The center boasts two state-of-the-art facilities that can host up to three classes at once. They regularly hold AKC and UKI trials, with occasional USDAA events, and feature elite instructors with a wide range of skillsets. Because they’re farther from D.C., it’s typically easier to secure a spot here than at A Click Above. Level Up offers classes throughout the day, Monday through Friday, along with frequent weekend seminars. For the variety and quality they offer, Level Up makes the drive well worth the trip.
Where to Do Agility Near DC: Maryland
Capital Dog Training Club
Located in Silver Spring, Capital Dog Training Club is unique on this list as the only volunteer-run agility facility. While their instructors may have less formal training than other centers, they provide a convenient option for those living in D.C. or on the Maryland side. The fully indoor, climate-controlled facility occasionally hosts AKC trials. Classes are offered three times a year – spring, fall, and winter – running 6 to 8 weeks per session. In the summer, they host seminars for current students in place of traditional classes.
Dynamic Dog Sports
On the Maryland side, Dynamic Dog Sports stands out as a premier agility training center. Led by Tracy Riley, a highly accomplished instructor with years of experience, their team offers top-tier coaching across multiple disciplines. The expansive facility includes both indoor and outdoor rings, providing space for a wide range of dog sports. They frequently host UKI trials and run classes throughout the week. Dynamic Dog Sports is located in Adamstown, Maryland and is another great option for those looking to do agility near DC. Although it is a bit farther from the city, their experience makes up for the longer commute.
Honorable Mention: Foley’s Dog Training
Although much smaller than the other options, Foley’s Dog Training provides agility instruction in a small group or private lesson. Foley’s dog training is located in Rockville and Burtonsville, Maryland.
The Best Dog Agility Near Washington DC
If you live in or near DC and are interested in starting agility with your dog, I recommend one of the following facilities: A Click Above, Level Up Dog Training, Capital Dog Training, or Dynamic Dogs. On the Virginia side, A Click Above and Level Up Dog Sports are both excellent options for dog agility near DC. A Click Above is closer to DC, but Level Up has more class options. In Maryland, I recommend Dynamic Dogs for their experienced trainers.
Thoughts? Comments? Did I miss anything? Leave a comment below and let me know!
Interested in entering your first agility trial or learning more about trial terminology? Check out my other posts on entering your first trial, knowing when to enter your first trial, or common words and phrases you will hear at agility trials.
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