Coursing Ability Test (CAT)
Tally-ho! Watching a dog run with pure joy and instinct is a beautiful sight.
Description
If you've done a Fast CAT Introduction - Practice Run and enjoyed it, this is a great option to practice more with your dog! All dogs welcome—purebreds, mixed breeds, young or senior, fast or leisurely!
From the AKC website, "Until you’ve seen it in action, it’s hard to imagine the complete and utter joy on your dog’s face as he runs the course, following the lure from start to finish. So if you’ve been looking for an activity that takes full advantage of your hound’s energy and natural ability, look no further than AKC Lure Coursing." LEARN MORE
Whether you’re curious about lure coursing, interested in Fast CAT, or simply love watching your dog run for the joy of it, this course is for you.
We adjust the speed of the lure to suit your dog’s breed, age, and enthusiasm level. It’s a fun, low-pressure way to introduce your dog to the sport of CAT (Coursing Ability Test) and let them experience the thrill of the chase in a safe, supportive setting.
Our instructor, Wendy Hodges, brings over 20 years of experience as a skilled AKC Hunt Master and lure operator. She has worked at the highest levels of the sport, including the AKC National Lure Coursing Championship—both as a competitor and a member of the field committee—as well as the ASFA International Invitational and Grand National. At every session, Wendy is joined by a couple of trained volunteers to ensure a safe, supportive, and fun introduction to the world of lure coursing and Fast CAT.
Held in our fully fenced, off-leash dog park at the back of The Dog Alliance property, each session features a looping course designed to mimic the unpredictable nature of a live chase—with curves, turns, and excitement around every bend. The course design will vary slightly each session to keep things fresh and engaging.
Session Details:
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Each dog receives two individual runs per session.
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Dogs run one at a time for safety.
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Dogs must be crated or secured in your vehicle when not actively running.
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Flat-buckle collars only—no harnesses, martingales, or attachments permitted.
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Please bring two leashes (slip leads highly recommended) and water for your dog.
New to CAT or bringing a puppy?
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First-time dogs and puppies (under 12 months) may run shorter distances.
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We use “puppy-friendly” techniques such as lure stops, slower speeds, and “puppy bumps” to build excitement and confidence.
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We’ll help you learn to use a slip lead and assist in safely catching your dog at the finish line.
Our priority is to keep the experience fun, safe, and tailored to your dog’s unique needs and energy level!
Multiple Dogs?
You're welcome to bring more than one dog—just keep in mind that only one dog may run at a time. Additional dogs must remain crated or secured in your vehicle and under control at all times.
Prerequisites
Age of Dog: 5 months and older or instructor approval
Dogs under 12 months of age will be restricted to long straights or single turns. At the instructor’s discretion, a dog nearing the age of 12 months may be able to turn more than once, but only after an assessment of their age and physical conditioning.
Skills: Recall is highly recommended. Need, help, enroll in an Advanced Manners course.
Dogs should be healthy and in fit condition.
Please contact us if you have any questions!