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Wanting to run a SprintDog™ trial but don't know where to start?Organising a SprintDog™ trial involves much more than setting up a 100-metre course. From securing approvals and preparing the schedule to recruiting volunteers, sourcing equipment and submitting results, there are many steps involved in delivering a safe, successful event.
This guide aims to take you through the entire process, from planning your trial through to finalising your paperwork post-event. While the SprintDog™ rules are the same across Australia, administrative requirements vary between Dogs Australia state bodies. Where relevant, this guide includes links to the forms, policies and resources you'll need for your state. By following the steps in this guide, you'll be well equipped to plan and run a safe, efficient and enjoyable SprintDog™ trial for competitors, officials, volunteers and spectators alike. |
Things to consider
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Choosing a date
Venue selection Officials |
Overseeing body: Dogs Australia
Minimum age for competition: 12 months Breed restrictions: None! Open to all breeds |
What equipment do I need?SprintDog™ is one of the most affordable dog sports to get started in, as most people already have everything they need! Dogs must run either wearing a flat collar with no dangling tags or "naked" (without a collar), so all you'll need is either a standard flat collar and two clip leads OR if they run naked, two slip leads. You'll also need a number holder for both the catcher and the releaser, and many catchers choose to take a treat pouch or a favourite toy to reward the dog at the end. Outside of the ring, you will also need a crate or similar to keep your dog secure.
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How much training is needed?Very little! One of the biggest attractions of SprintDog™ is that most dogs require minimal training before they're ready to trial.
For dogs that naturally love to chase the lure, training is usually as simple as getting them used to being released at the start and caught at the finish. If your dog isn't interested in chasing the lure, or is a little unsure of it, a reliable long-distance recall is often all that's needed, as dogs are welcome to run without the lure. While there is no formal SprintDog™ training, many clubs hold Try Out Days throughout the year. These sessions are a great way to introduce your dog to the sport and help them become familiar with the start box, the trial environment, and everything they'll see and hear as they run in a trial. |
Titles
SprintDog™ titles are earned by accumulating points over multiple trials. The number of points awarded at each trial is based on the dog's average speed in kilometres per hour multiplied by their handicap.
Only the highest title a dog has earned is displayed as part of their registered name. For example, once a dog earns their SPRD title, their earlier N.SPRD title is no longer shown. The titles in order are:
Only the highest title a dog has earned is displayed as part of their registered name. For example, once a dog earns their SPRD title, their earlier N.SPRD title is no longer shown. The titles in order are:
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The first level of competition
Your first trialSprintDog™ trials are incredibly popular, so entries are usually filled either by ballot or on a first come, first served basis. The trial schedule will explain how entries are allocated, along with the opening and closing dates and, where applicable, when the ballot will be conducted.
At your first trial, your dog will need to be measured unless they are clearly over 45 cm at the shoulder. Once your dog has a height card, you can check in and collect your two matching competitor numbers - one for the releaser and one for the catcher. When the dog's number is called, both the releaser and catcher should be ready. The releaser will take the dog to the start box, while the catcher heads to the catching pen with the lead they'll use to secure the dog at the end of the run and a toy or a pouch with treats they may wish to reward the dog with. When instructed by the officials, the releaser will enter the start box, set the dog up on their preferred side of the string (never on or over it) and remove the dog's lead, throwing it clear of the string and the dog. Once the catcher is in position and the Sprint Marshall has confirmed the releaser is ready, they'll call, "Do not release your dog before the T in Tally Ho." and if a lure is being used, will signal the Lure Operator to send the lure down the sprint zone. When the Sprint Marshall calls "Tally Ho!", the releaser lets the dog go. After the dog crosses the finish line, the catcher simply clips or slips the lead back on, rewards the dog, and leaves the catching pen. |
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