Choosing a Sport
In order to choose a sport, you have to know a little about each one. Here’s a short description of some of the more common dog events:

Agility
Dogs race over, through and around obstacles as quickly as possible with the human keeping up and giving the directions. Most dogs and people can enjoy learning the basics of this sport even if competition is not a goal. Different size dogs jump different height jumps, so even toy breeds can compete with great success. Read more about Agility Courses.

Flyball
A canine relay race where a dog races over a series of jumps, grabs a tennis ball and races back. When one dog crosses the finish line, the next dog in the team starts. Jump size is set for the shortest member of the team, so most teams include a fast, small dog.

Big Air/Diving Dog
This sport involves a dog racing down a dock and leaping into the water for a thrown object. The longest leap wins.

Flying Disc
This is a sport for truly athletic dogs. Leaping in the air and vaulting off the handler’s back makes for great entertainment, but these moves are extremely demanding. The dog is landing hard and often, twisting and turning in every direction.

Conformation
This is what most people think of when they hear “dog show” – a contest to see which purebred dog most closely conforms to its breed standard. Some of the largest shows are now televised, so everyone can enjoy the glamour of these events.

Obedience
While many of us struggle to get our dogs to sit, obedience competitors teach their dogs a complex series of behaviors on which they are judged.

Other activities
There are numerous other activities and sports in which to participate: pet assisted therapy, tracking, herding, Rally-O, dancing with dogs, hunt tests, backpacking, carting, swim tests, earth dog tests and much, much more. Conduct a little research, invest your time and energy in training and you and your dog can join in the fun.

Things to Consider

Age
Dogs need to be fully mature to start doing strenuous physical activity, but do not let that stop you from teaching your pup the basics of the sport in which you’re interested. Just work with a sensible trainer and take things easy until your veterinarian tells you it is safe for your dog to compete.

Soundness
A strong body is a requirement for many sports. No matter what your dream is, if your dog isn’t built for it or doesn’t enjoy it, then it is time to adjust your plans. You and your dog are a team. It is your job to make sure your dog is safe, properly conditioned and happy.

Time to Devote
The more strenuous the sport, the more time is needed both for training and for conditioning your dog to peak physical condition. Training or competing with a dog that is not in top physical form can lead to injury. So your choices are to devote the time needed to succeed, participate in a less intense way or find another sport that you can more easily work into your schedule.

Few things are as rewarding as competing with your dog, having all your months and years of training come together seamlessly so you both do your best. Win or lose, such moments are among the rewards of dog ownership.