Want an easy, low-stress way to get involved in the world of dog sports? Start with an AKC Coursing Ability Test (CAT) because it is designed specifically for newcomers.

Each dog runs individually and chases after an artificial lure on a 600-yard course. Your dog must finish in less than 2 minutes. Don’t worry about being judged: Dogs only earn a pass/fail. After you complete the CAT, you might consider training for one of the AKC’s three types of coursing events: Herding, Earthdog and Lure.

Cost per trial: $25

To compete, your dog must:

• Be 12 months or older

• Have an AKC number via one of the following:

  • AKC Registration as one of the recognized breeds.

  • AKC Canine Partners, which is for mixed-breed dogs and dogs ineligible for AKC registration.

  • Purebred Alternative Listing (PAL) program, which is for purebred dogs that cannot be fully registered with the AKC to participate in AKC events.

  • Foundation Stock Service®(FSS), which is for recorded breeds on the road to full AKC recognition.

In addition:

• Spayed females and neutered males are eligible to participate.

• Females in season are not eligible to participate.