Speed Racer - FastCAT, Lure Coursing, & Precision Coursing
What is it: We all know that many dogs like to RUN! So why not let them unleash some of that energy and earn some titles at the same time? Each of these venues gives your dog the opportunity to run full out on a flat course. Within each course, there is a lure - usually an artificial object designed to stimulate and entice dogs by appearing as prey. The lure is on a line and is pulled along the course.
For Fast CAT and the Dash division of Precision Coursing, your dog chases a lure down a straight line, basically akin to a 50 or a 100 yard dash. Your dog is timed and that time is used to determine their speed. They are also awarded points toward titles.
Lure Coursing gives the Klee Kai the chance to run like the sighthounds. Be cautious here, as a majority of these courses are not fenced in. The course has turns and straightaways, and your dog qualifies as long as they follow the lure for the duration of the course.
UKC Precision Coursing is like a mini lure coursing set up, but fenced in. This is a great alternative if your Klee Kai loves to run and chase things, but isn’t the most reliable when it comes to recall.
Venues and Rules
Venues and Rules: Most of these courses fall into either UKC or AKC:
Tools and Training
You really don’t need much for this one. Some people like to use a special quick release leash, however we urge caution with those. If you aren’t sure how to correctly use these, your Klee Kai can easily slip it and end up off leash. You can use either a flat collar and leash set, or a slip lead.
Benefits for you and your dog:
Physical Exercise - While it may be obvious to some, your Klee Kai will love getting some of that pent up energy out by running full out.
Mental Exercise - Your dog is also potentially learning to focus while running at top speed. That lure moves fast!
Bonding Opportunities - How is your recall in some of these events? Practicing, and letting your dog safely run in these environments can definitely help improve your dog’s recall.
Fun - Coursing is another easy way to just have fun with your dog as they do what they may do best. Why not earn a title or two while you are at it?
Thurisia Dog’s Do It All!
Thurisia’s Involvement: The majority of our Klee Kai love the chase - some a lot more than others. We always enjoy seeing the looks on our dogs’ faces, not to mention the usually hilarious photos that are taken during the sports. Some of our dogs that have participated include, but are not limited to:
Attila - Fast CAT, Dash, Precision Coursing
Isla - Fast CAT, Dash, Precision Coursing, Lure Coursing
Lyra - Fast CAT, Dash, Precision Coursing
Halo - Fast CAT, Dash
Everdeen - Fast CAT, Dash, Precision Coursing
Potion - Fast CAT