About Data Driven Agility

Agility training with Amanda Shyne in Springfield

Data Driven Agility is an agility training center on Elm Street in Springfield, run by Amanda Shyne, Ph.D. She helps agility handlers communicate better with their dogs and build skills, confidence, speed and accuracy. Her Ph.D. at Northeastern University studied the effects of environmental enrichment on zoo animal welfare, and she has written two agility books for Clean Run, Weaves that Wow and Phenomenal Stopped Contacts.

Classes and facilities

Training covers the dog's skills (jumping, obstacle commitment, verbal cues, start lines, contacts and weaves), the handler's skills (setting lines, giving clear cues and positioning) and teamwork. Amanda offers online classes such as Advanced Obstacle Commitment and Running Contacts, in-person classes and seminars in Vermont, seminars on the road, and agility trials at the center. The outdoor ring is a fully fenced grass field with USDAA trial-approved equipment, and an indoor horse arena has a dust-free sand and clay surface.

What owners say

One student wrote: "Now, Jaxx and I stay connected, he knows where he's going next, and the bars stay up!"

What to ask

Ask about the next in-person class dates and fees.