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Activities Descriptions of what we do and what those titles mean |
Flyball |
Flyball is a popluar dogsport governed by two different organizations: NAFA and U-Fli. In this sport, there are two teams that compete in a relay race of four dogs each. The first do heads down the lane, jumps over four hurdles, hits a spring loaded box that releases a tennis ball, then turns and goes back over the same hurdles. After the first dog has crossed the finish line, the second dog goes, etc. |
Flyball titles can be recognized by the begining letter of "F" (ex: FDCh, FM) or by "T" (ex. TF-II, TFE). Titles are awarded as points are obtained through team competition. |
Conformation |
Although many people think that conformation, or competing in the "breed ring" is just a beauty contest, it is really much more than that. The dogs are judged against the breed standard to determine which one has the most correct conformation. Conformation of an Aussie is important since they are a breed that is meant to spend all day working for their master. If a dog is not correctly "put together" they are more prone to injuries and would not be good working animals. The same reason is true for judging their gait, or movement. Haircoat color and quality are taken into consideration, but the judge is looking for more than just that aspect of the animal. Dogs compete to earn points toward their Championship, designated with a CH. in front of their name. |
Obedience and Rally Obedience |
In traditional obedience, the dog and handler work through a series of commands as directed by a judge. The basic principles in all classes are healing (on and off leash), sitting, laying down, staying for extended periods, coming when called, and retrieval of various objects. The titles that are earned are CD, CDX, UD, and UDX. Recently a newer and more freestlye form of obedience has become popular. This "rally style" obedience concentrates more on the dog and handler working and communicating as a team. Instead of the judge giving commands, the team works through a pre-set course following numbered signs. Each station has the command that the team must complete. Talking to your dog throughout the course is encouraged, a major difference from traditional obedience. Titles earned are RN, RA, RE, and RAE. |
Herding |
Herding is just what it sounds like- asking the dog to move stock through a course, around gates, and put them in a pen. Herding is sanctioned by many organizations including AKC, ASCA, and AHBA. There are many levels of competition and dogs earn titles with the designations of -c (cattle), -s (sheep), -g (goats), and -d (ducks) |
Other Events |
I have only taken the time here to describe the events that I and my dogs have participated in. Aussies are wonderful working dogs and can also excell in agility, tracking, frisbee, search and rescue work, etc. The possablities are about endless. |