Agility Update: Positive Steps for the Discipline
Following meetings of the Activities Committee and the Kennel Club Board, we’re pleased to share the latest developments. These amendments are all about building a fair, exciting future for the discipline and the Kennel Club wishes to extend its thanks to everyone involved in the research, discussion and planning.
Winning-Out Timeframe Streamlined
To support timely progression while maintaining workable administration for shows, the “winning-out” period between grades will be reduced from 25days to 18 days. Evidence gathered by the Agility Liaison Council confirmed that 18 days represents the minimum interval that remains practical for both competitors and show management. This update will come into effect from 1st January 2026 with amendments to the following regulations:
Regulation H.9.(14)
TO:
A statement that in estimating the number of awards won, all wins up to and including 2̶5̶ 18 days before the start of the competition shall be counted when entering for any class. For these purposes a competition shall be defined as all classes covered within the same schedule. In the event that a dog becomes eligible for the next grade at a particular show, after the entry for that show has been sent, it is the competitor’s responsibility to notify the show secretary or the show processor at least 14 days before the date of the show. The dog should then be moved into the appropriate class(es) for the next grade. The dog must be moved into the corresponding number of classes as were entered at the lower grade. If there are fewer or no classes available for the next grade the competitor should be offered a refund of the relevant entry fees. Failure to notify the show secretary or processor at least 14 days before the date of the show will result in the dog being ineligible to compete at that show.
(Deletion struck through. Insertion in bold.)
(Effective 1 January 2026)
Regulation H.10.h
TO:
In estimating the number of awards won, all wins up to and including 2̶5̶ 18 days before the start of the competition shall be counted when entering for any class. For these purposes a competition shall be defined as all classes covered within the same schedule. In the event that a dog becomes eligible for the next grade at a particular show, after the entry for that show has been sent, it is the competitor’s responsibility to notify the show secretary or the show processor at least 14 days before the date of the show. The dog should then be moved into the appropriate class(es) for the next grade. The dog must be moved into the corresponding number of classes as were entered at the lower grade. If there are fewer or no classes available for the next grade the competitor should be offered a refund of the relevant entry fees. Failure to notify the show secretary or processor at least 14 days before the date of the show will result in the dog being ineligible to compete at that show.
(Deletion struck through. Insertion in bold.)
(Effective 1 January 2026)
Graded Classes Refined for Fairer Progression
To help ensure dogs move through the grades at a pace that reflects their ability the number of graded classes will reduce from four to two per grade. This change affects all licenced show types and is designed to create a level playing field and encourage balanced entries across all shows and the following regulation amendments will be applicable from 1st January 2026
Regulation H(1)(A) 5.
TO:
A maximum of four standard classes may be scheduled for any dog on an individual day of competition including a maximum of two graded classes. Any number of special classes may be scheduled.
Regulation H(1)(D) 2.
TO:
Type of show
Limited agility shows are shows at which the classes (except for standard classes) may be limited by numbers of class entries, overall numbers of entries, specific breeds, residence of competitors, membership of societies or organisations or otherwise subject to the approval of the Board of The Royal Kennel Club. A maximum of four standard classes including a maximum of two graded classes, and any number of special classes may be scheduled, other than qualifying heats for Royal Kennel Club sponsored or sanctioned competitions.
Regulation H(1)(D) 3.c.
A limited agility show may schedule an unlimited number of special agility classes and up to four standard classes (which may be capped) including a maximum of two graded classes.
Micro Height on the Horizon
The Activities Committee was delighted by the community’s enthusiasm for a dedicated Micro height but recognised the need for its introduction to be successful and sustainable.
A comprehensive grade review is under way, and the sought after fifth height will be an integral part of that bigger picture. Concerns were raised that allowing shows to schedule Micro classes now could pressure organisers and risk small class sizes that wouldn’t give competitors the challenge they deserve.
The Committee therefore agreed in principle to introduce a Micro height and will continue working toward its introduction alongside the grade review, ensuring that when it arrives, it’s set up for long-term success. We look forward to further updates in due course.