In the sport of Lure coursing the dogs chase a mechanized lure. Modern lure courses use an artificial lure attached to a pulley for dogs to chase. And it’s not just for sighthounds anymore – recreational lure coursing clubs have been established for dogs of any breed.
If you’re looking for a new way to have some fun and get in some great exercise with your dog you should consider lure coursing. Any dog that’s in good physical condition and loves to chase or exhibits prey drive is perfect for the sport. You can join a local club and let your dog compete recreationally, or you can build your own lure course in your back yard.
FASTCat (short for Coursing Ability Test) is a rapidly growing category where dogs run a 100 yard dash one at a time while chasing a lure. Dogs can reach up to 35-45 mph on the course. To participate in AKC FASTCat, your dog must be:
- At least 12 months of age.
- Have an AKC number via one of the following:
- AKC Registration as one of the AKC’s recognized breeds.
- AKC Canine Partners, which is for mixed-breed dogs and dogs ineligible for AKC registration.
- Purebred Alternative Listing (PAL) program, which is for purebred dogs that cannot be fully registered with the AKC to participate in AKC events.
- Foundation Stock Service®(FSS), which is for recorded breeds on the road to full AKC recognition.
In addition:
- Spayed and neutered dogs are eligible to compete in these events and are welcome.
- Dogs with Limited or Conditional Registration are eligible to participate.
- Females in season are not eligible to participate.
