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.