Ever watched your dog suddenly bolt after a squirrel, a blowing leaf, or even just an imaginary speck in the distance? That intense focus, the lightning speed, the sheer joy of the chase – it’s wired into their DNA. For centuries, dogs were bred for hunting and chasing prey. While most of our companions now chase tennis balls instead of rabbits, that innate drive remains strong. What if there was a safe, organized way for your dog to indulge this powerful instinct? Enter the Coursing Ability Test, or CAT.
CAT is a fantastic dog sport offered by organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC) that provides all dogs, regardless of breed (or lack thereof!), a chance to unleash their inner hunter in a controlled environment. It’s essentially a timed 300- or 600-yard dash across an open field where dogs chase a mechanized lure – typically a white plastic bag attached to a line – simulating the pursuit of prey. It’s pure, unadulterated fun for the canine participant.
What Exactly Happens at a CAT Event?
Imagine a large, grassy field. A continuous loop system, operated by a lure operator, pulls a plastic lure across the ground at speed. The course itself can vary slightly, but it’s designed to test a dog’s “coursing ability” – their instinct to chase something moving.
The Course: There are two standard distances:
- 300 yards: Typically for smaller or brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds, though any eligible dog can run this distance.
- 600 yards: The standard distance for most dogs.
The course layout isn’t just a straight line. It often includes turns, mimicking the way prey might zig-zag to escape a predator. This tests the dog’s agility and ability to keep track of the lure as it changes direction. Pulleys are strategically placed around the field to guide the line and lure along the designated path.
The Run: Dogs run individually. They are typically held at the starting line by their handler. When the signal is given (“Tally Ho!”) and the lure starts moving, the handler releases the dog. From that moment, it’s all about the dog’s focus on that tantalizing white plastic bag. They need to follow it intently, run hard, and complete the entire course.
Who Can Participate?
This is one of the most appealing aspects of CAT – its inclusivity. Unlike traditional Lure Coursing, which is primarily for sighthounds (like Greyhounds, Whippets, Salukis, etc.) and judged partially on breed-specific running style, CAT is open to virtually any dog.
- All Breeds: From tiny Terriers to giant Great Danes, if they have the instinct to chase, they can try CAT.
- Mixed Breeds: Yes, your beloved mutt can join the fun! They just need to be registered with an appropriate program like the AKC Canine Partners program or PAL (Purebred Alternative Listing).
- Age Requirement: Dogs must be at least 12 months old to compete. This ensures they have the physical maturity to handle the exertion safely.
- Health: Dogs must be physically sound and healthy enough for strenuous activity.
The key is the dog’s desire to chase the lure. Some dogs see the plastic bag whizzing by and instantly understand the game; others might need a bit of encouragement or practice runs to get the hang of it.
Eligibility and Safety Check: To participate, your dog must be at least one year old and registered with the AKC (or PAL/Canine Partners for mixed breeds). Importantly, dogs must be in good physical condition to run safely. They also cannot exhibit aggression towards people or other dogs at the event site, ensuring a positive experience for everyone.
Judging and Titles: More Than Just Speed
While speed is certainly thrilling to watch, CAT isn’t purely a race against the clock. It’s a pass/fail test. A judge observes the dog’s run, looking for specific qualities that demonstrate coursing ability.
Key Judging Points:
- Enthusiasm: Does the dog show excitement and eagerness to chase from the start?
- Follow: Does the dog stay focused on the lure throughout the course, even through turns?
- Speed: While not timed against other dogs, the dog should run with urgency appropriate for its breed and build.
- Agility: Can the dog handle the turns smoothly without losing track of the lure?
- Endurance: Does the dog complete the entire course without giving up?
To qualify (pass), a dog must complete the course with enthusiasm and without interruption, continuously chasing the lure. If a dog loses sight of the lure and stops chasing, or decides to investigate interesting smells mid-run, they likely won’t qualify for that attempt. However, handlers can often run their dog again later in the day if time permits.
Earning Titles
Qualifying runs earn points towards AKC titles, which become part of your dog’s official record. This provides a great sense of accomplishment for both dog and handler.
- CA (Coursing Ability): Requires 3 qualifying runs under at least two different judges.
- CAA (Coursing Ability Advanced): Requires 10 total qualifying runs.
- CAX (Coursing Ability Excellent): Requires 25 total qualifying runs.
- CAX2, CAX3, etc.: Awarded for each additional 25 qualifying runs.
These titles celebrate a dog’s consistent demonstration of their natural chasing instinct.
Why Try CAT With Your Dog?
The benefits of participating in Coursing Ability Tests extend beyond just earning titles.
Natural Instinct Outlet: It provides a safe and appropriate outlet for a dog’s innate prey drive. Chasing the lure fulfills a deep-seated instinctual need, leading to a happier, more satisfied dog.
Great Exercise: A full-speed 600-yard dash with turns is fantastic physical exercise. It helps keep dogs fit and burns off excess energy, which can often curb undesirable behaviors at home stemming from boredom.
Confidence Building: Successfully completing the course and “catching” the lure (handlers often let their dogs grab the bag at the end) can be a huge confidence booster, especially for more timid dogs.
Pure Fun: Watching dogs run CAT is infectious. Their joy is palpable. They are doing something they absolutely love, driven purely by instinct. It’s incredibly rewarding for handlers to see their companions so happy.
Bonding Experience: Training for, traveling to, and participating in events strengthens the bond between you and your dog. You’re working together as a team, celebrating successes, and enjoying a shared activity.
Getting Started with CAT
Interested in giving it a whirl? Here’s how to get started:
- Find Events: Check the AKC Event Search portal or similar resources from other organizations that might offer CAT-like tests. Look for clubs in your area that host these events.
- Observe First: If possible, attend an event without your dog first. This lets you see how things run, talk to participants, and understand the atmosphere.
- Check Eligibility: Ensure your dog meets the age requirement and is registered with the AKC or an appropriate alternative program.
- Basic Fitness and Recall: While formal training isn’t required for the run itself (it’s instinct!), your dog should be reasonably fit. Good recall is also important for getting your dog back after their run, especially amidst the excitement.
- Practice (Optional): Some clubs offer practice sessions where dogs can get accustomed to chasing the lure before entering an official test. This can be helpful for dogs unsure about the plastic bag lure.
- Enter an Event: Find an event premium list (which details the specific event rules, entry fees, date, location, judges), fill out the entry form, and send it in before the closing date.
- Event Day: Arrive early, check in, find the inspection area (where dogs are briefly checked for fitness and females checked for being in season), and wait for your turn to run. Keep your dog secure and comfortable while waiting.
Coursing Ability Tests offer a unique opportunity for dogs of all shapes and sizes to tap into their primal instincts in a safe, fun, and rewarding way. It celebrates the fundamental nature of dogs as athletes and chasers. If your dog loves to run and chase, exploring the world of CAT could be an exciting new adventure for both of you.
