Dash Dogs is an inclusive organization that offers exciting sprint trials that are similar to the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) FAST CAT tests. Dash Dogs doesn’t discriminate when it comes to dogs; all breeds, regardless of mix, are welcome to participate. This is a helpful bonus that even if your dog hasn’t chased a lure in the past, Dash Dogs events accommodate even the greenest dasher, provided they are over six months of age. Three events hosted by Spring Mountain Sprinters are already in the calendar for 2025, with race meets happening March 22nd–23rd, May 31st, and again October 25th–26th. The times of these race meets do vary, so visit our event listings, Spring Mountain Sprinters on Facebook, for more information and register directly on the Dash Dogs site.

The organization offers two track lengths: a 100-yard standard track and a 50-yard track for preferred classes. The shorter track serves as a safe and enjoyable introduction to the sport, allowing dogs to experience the thrill of “chasing the bunny” in a controlled and encouraging setting suited for young dogs, veteran dogs, and the new chasers in the pack.

Lure chasing, the sport at the heart of Dash Dogs’ events, involves dogs chasing a mechanically operated lure, simulating the experience of pursuing prey, which many breeds, including surprising little chasers such as Dachshunds, have a strong drive for. If your dog is driven to chase everything that moves— toys, birds that land in the yard, or squirrels on a walk—this may be for you. This activity not only taps into a dog’s natural instincts but also offers numerous physical and mental benefits. It provides an excellent outlet for high-energy dogs, improves their physical fitness, and enhances their focus and agility. Another pleasant benefit is that chasing can strengthen the bond between dogs and their handlers as they work together towards a common goal.

AKC’s FAST CAT, which stands for Fast Coursing Ability Test, is a similar event where dogs dash down a 100-yard straight course in pursuit of a lure. These tests are designed to be a fun and competitive way for dogs to demonstrate their speed and agility, with points awarded based on their speed relative to their size. By offering events similar to FAST CAT, Dash Dogs not only provides an engaging platform for dogs to showcase their abilities but also maintains Top 20 rankings per breed, both lifetime and yearly, as they aim for regional and national competitions. This systematic approach ensures that every dog, whether a novice or an expert, has the opportunity to participate, be recognized, and be celebrated for their achievements in this fun and exciting sport.