If you're bored with playing fetch and tug-of-war with our dog, or you just have a competitive streak, there are other games you can play.

Dog Agility Training
Dog agility is a sport in which dogs and their owners run an obstacle course in a timed race. There are hurdles to jump, tunnels to run through, ramps to climb and poles to weave through.

Though the handler accompanies his dog around the course, he does not have to perform the agility feats. Thank goodness! The handler is mostly showing the dog where to go next, as part of the challenge includes changing the order of the equipment. You also are encouraging the dog to keep his interest high and his speed up.

Scores are a combination of the quickest time around the course and the cleanest run.
More information is available at United States Dog Agility Association or The North American Dog Agility Council websites.

Track and Field for Dogs
Flyball is played as a relay race with four dogs per team. The dogs run towards a box, jumping four hurdles on the way. Once they reach the box, they step on a pedal that releases a tennis ball, which they must catch. Then the dog returns the way he came.

Flyball is played throughout North America, in the UK, Belgium and Australia.

While it is usually played as a team sport, there is no reason your dog would not enjoy the game played in his own backyard. For more information see the North American Flyball Association's website.

Catch!
Frisbee, or disc catching is a typical game people play with their dogs.
Competitive Frisbee involves speed, precision, and gymnastics on the part of both dog and owner.

The first known "Frisbee Dog" was named Ashley Whippet, and was owned by a college student in Ohio. They exhibited their prowess in an unscheduled and unexpected demonstration at a Cincinnati baseball game in 1974.
Today it is a very popular as both a competitive and spectator sport, with competitions nationwide.

Training Your Dog for Play
All of these games involve many hours of training and much patience.

Temperament and personality play the biggest role in deciding what sport, if any is right for your dog. The dog's physical makeup and limitations also play a part.

Since all of these sports involve jumping and twisting, it is important to have the dog thoroughly checked out by your vet before starting any of these sports. Hips, elbows and eyes are the most important things to check.

Most jumping should be put off until the dog is older. Again, check with your vet about the best age to start, as it will vary with breed. Generally, no dog less than 14 months should be jumping hurdles.

It's Not Whether You Win or Lose...
Remember, the real object of these sports is just to have fun with your dog. If your pet doesn't enjoy it, he or she isn't going to perform well, so don't get too tied up in the competition, and have fun!

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