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Try a new dog sport this summer.  Outdoor trials are a unique way to enjoy the warm weather with your pup. 

JoAnn Lu April 25, 2017

Last week I wrote about getting your pup in shape for summer fun, which focused a lot of hiking and long walks. The spring also marks the start of another activity I love—outdoor dog sport trials. It’s such a fun way to enjoy the warm weather while bonding with your pup and meeting fellow dog lovers.

If you’re interested in trying a new sport, start by searching for your local dog training club by looking online, asking around at the park, or getting recommendations from your veterinarian or groomer.

There are also clubs that focus on one dog sport, often affiliated with national organizations. Their web sites often list local clubs and chapters that can connect you with beginner classes. You can also search to find trials, tournaments, and events in your area to get a better idea of what the sport is all about.

Here are some web sites to get you started.

Agility

 Dogs run with their handlers through a timed obstacle course.

American Kennel Club (AKC) Agility 

North American Dog Agility Council (NADAC) 

United Stated Dog Agility Association (USDAA)

Dock Diving

Dock Diving Dogs compete in jumping for distance or height over a body of water. 

Dock Dogs North America Diving Dogs (NADD)

Flyball

 Dogs race across hurdles to grab a tennis ball and return to the start line in a relay race.

 North American Flyball Association (NAFA) 

United Flyball League International (U-FLI) 

Herding

 Dogs work under their handler's guidance to herd animals, typically ducks or sheep. 

American Herding Breed Association (AHBA) 

American Kennel Club (AKC) Herding

Lure Coursing

 Dogs chase a mechanically operatured lure. 

American Sighthound Field Association (ASFA)  

American Kennel Club (AKC) 

Lure Coursing United Kennel Club (UKC) 

Nose Work

 Dogs search for scents in different environments. 

American Kennel Club (AKC) Scent Work 

National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW) 

United Kennel Club (UKC)

Obedience

 Dogs complete a specific routine of behaviors to showcase their training. 

American Kennel Club (AKC) Obedience  

The Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA)  

C-Wags Obedience United Kennel Club (UKC)

Rally Obedience

  A test of obedience-like behaviors, but in a course format. 

American Kennel Club (AKC) Rally 

The Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA) 

C-Wags Rally 

United Kennel Club (UKC) 

World Cynosport Rally 

Dog sports are a great way to enjoy the outdoors in a unique way. The time I spend with my dogs training for agility or rally obedience is really special. It’s unlike any other activity we do together.

Related: Bond with Your Dog Over Agility Training 

K9 Nose Work [VIDEO]

JoAnna Lou is a New York City-based researcher, writer and agility enthusiast.

Photo by Lil Shepherd/flickr.