Here's a quote from Jo Sermon of the UK:
"Basically, bring me an adult dog that is fully grown, fit and healthy
and in full control of his body, knows where all of his feet are and is
aware of them and knows how to use them. If that dog has the control
training in hand, can pay attention to his owner in an exciting
environment, knows how to control and channel his own excitement. If he
has an instant response to his name, a solid recall no matter the
distraction levels, a good confident sendaway, with his target
behaviour *on cue* (not see target stick nose to
it) and with drive built into it. Bring me that dog and we'll have no
problems at all teaching him Agility. We'll also have a LOT of fun )"
For me, those are words to live by. Take the puppyhood time to train the
elements Jo lists and you'll have a dog ready to learn agility, freestyle,
therapy dog or any other sport/activity you can think of.
I rarely get dogs like this, but a girl can dream! What else would you want in a perfect (performance dog) world?