Getting Started in DockDogs
What is DockDogs?
DockDogs is a fun, performance sport for dogs. DockDogs Events are held Regionally, Nationally and Internationally. Most DockDogs Competitions are comprised of four contests; ‘BIG AIR’, ‘EXTREME VERTICAL’ (EV) and ‘SPEED RETRIEVE’ and the new sport ‘IRON DOG’ which is now held at National Competitions.
Who can compete?
Anyone can come out, register his or her dog and have a good time. We will track every official jump of all competitors in all our events. There’s no age limits for handlers nor are DockDogs events limited to certain breeds. Any breed, from the smallest Chihuahua to the largest Great Dane is welcome at a DockDogs event. Any breed…any size…6-months or older.
What is Big Air?
Judging for distance, this competition judges how far your dog can jump from the edge of the dock across the pool. The dog can start by running from the beginning of the dock in order to generate momentum, distance is calculated from the edge of the dock to where the base of the dogs tail hits the water. There are many different divisions, so all dogs with different jumping distances can join in the fun and have success.
What is Extreme Vertical (EV)?
This is the “high jump” for dogs. When competing in Extreme Vertical (EV), dogs jump upwards from the dock in order to retrieve a bumper, landing in the water.
What is Speed Retrieve?
DockDogs Speed Retrieve involves a run…jump…swim environment. The clock starts when the dog leaves the starting line on the dock, and stops when the dog swims to the end of the pool and retrieves the duck.
What is Iron Dog?
DockDogs Iron Dog competition is the newest DockDogs Sport. It combines all of the above three competitions and your dog competes for points. The best Iron Dogs are the dogs that are consistent and do well in all three sports. Many of the dogs that are strong in one area, but weak in other areas do not make strong iron dogs. All National competitions for the upcoming 2009 season will include Iron Dog. To register your dog for Iron Dog, you will need to compete them in Big Air, Speed Retrieve and Extreme Vertical but be sure to register for the Iron Dog so you earn points that go towards the Iron Dog scoring.
Getting Started
Getting started in DockDogs is easy. You don’t need to be a member of a club to join, and no experience is necessary (though it’s a good idea to be certain your dog can swim first).
Step 1:
Visit dockdogs.com to find an event or club near you. If you’re in the Las Vegas area check out LasVegasDockDogs.com
Step 2:
Register your dog to jump at the event, or attend a club practice or seminar.
Step 3:
Get out an have fun with your dog!
If your dog loves water, loves toys and is a little on the reckless side then DockDogs may be the perfect fit for your summertime fun! Check out the video below for scenes from a recent Las Vegas DockDogs fun jump.
To view this entire post including the video, visit: http://sitmeanssit.com/ashton/98/getting-started-in-dockdogs
