CKC Sprinter & AKC Fast CAT with Great Danes
Let Them Run!
Few things are more impressive than watching a Great Dane stretch out and run at full speed. CKC Sprinter and AKC Fast CAT give dogs an opportunity to do exactly that in a safe, organized event while earning points toward recognized titles.
In both sports, dogs run individually along a straight track while chasing a moving lure. Their run is timed, their speed is calculated and points are awarded according to the rules of the organization.
Sprinter and Fast CAT are simple sports to understand, require very little formal training and can be tremendous fun for dogs that love to run. They also allow owners to see something they may rarely witness in everyday life—their dog running completely flat out.
At Meraki Great Danes, we believe Great Danes should be more than beautiful. They should be healthy, functional and capable of enjoying activities with their families. Sprinter is one of the many ways we have fun with our dogs and celebrate their natural athletic ability.
Few things are more impressive than watching a Great Dane stretch out and run at full speed. CKC Sprinter and AKC Fast CAT give dogs an opportunity to do exactly that in a safe, organized event while earning points toward recognized titles.
In both sports, dogs run individually along a straight track while chasing a moving lure. Their run is timed, their speed is calculated and points are awarded according to the rules of the organization.
Sprinter and Fast CAT are simple sports to understand, require very little formal training and can be tremendous fun for dogs that love to run. They also allow owners to see something they may rarely witness in everyday life—their dog running completely flat out.
At Meraki Great Danes, we believe Great Danes should be more than beautiful. They should be healthy, functional and capable of enjoying activities with their families. Sprinter is one of the many ways we have fun with our dogs and celebrate their natural athletic ability.
|
What Is CKC Sprinter?
Canadian Kennel Club Sprinter is a timed 100-metre dash. Dogs run one at a time while pursuing a lure along an essentially flat, straight track. A dog’s time is converted into kilometres per hour. That speed is then multiplied by a height-based handicap to determine how many points the dog earns toward its Sprinter titles. Dogs must complete the course in less than 60 seconds. Sprinter is open to purebred and mixed-breed dogs that are at least 12 months old and have an eligible CKC registration or competition number. Before running, dogs are inspected for lameness and general fitness to participate. |
|
|
How CKC Sprinter Points Are Calculated The dog’s speed is calculated using the following formula: 360 ÷ the dog’s time in seconds = kilometres per hour A height-based handicap is then applied:
Because Great Danes are taller than 18 inches, their speed is multiplied by 1.25 to determine the points earned for each run. Points are rounded to the nearest whole number. For example, a Great Dane running 40 kilometres per hour would earn approximately: 40 × 1.25 = 50 points |
CKC Sprinter Titles
Points accumulate over multiple qualifying runs toward the following CKC suffix titles: Novice Sprinter — NS Awarded after earning 150 points. Sprinter — S Awarded after earning 500 points. Advanced Sprinter — AS Awarded after earning 1,000 points. Sprinter Excellent — SX Awarded after earning 1,500 points. After earning the SX title, an additional numbered title is awarded for every further 500 points. For example, a dog reaching 2,000 points earns SX2. Higher-level Sprinter titles replace the lower title on the dog’s CKC record. |
|
CKC Veteran Sprinter Titles
Dogs that are seven years of age or older may be entered as veterans. CKC offers separate veteran Sprinter title thresholds:
The lower thresholds allow older dogs that remain healthy and physically capable to continue enjoying the sport without needing to accumulate the same number of points as younger competitors. Participation should always be based on the individual dog’s health, conditioning and enthusiasm rather than age alone. |
|
What Is AKC Fast CAT?
Fast CAT stands for Fast Coursing Ability Test. It is the American Kennel Club’s version of a timed straight sprint.
Dogs run individually along a 100-yard course, chasing a moving lure. Their time is converted into miles per hour and multiplied by a height-based handicap to calculate the points earned.
Fast CAT is open to eligible purebred and mixed-breed dogs that are at least 12 months old. Dogs must have an AKC registration, Foundation Stock Service number,
Purebred Alternative Listing number or Canine Partners number. Spayed and neutered dogs may participate, but females in season are not eligible to run. Each dog is inspected for lameness and fitness before competing.
Fast CAT stands for Fast Coursing Ability Test. It is the American Kennel Club’s version of a timed straight sprint.
Dogs run individually along a 100-yard course, chasing a moving lure. Their time is converted into miles per hour and multiplied by a height-based handicap to calculate the points earned.
Fast CAT is open to eligible purebred and mixed-breed dogs that are at least 12 months old. Dogs must have an AKC registration, Foundation Stock Service number,
Purebred Alternative Listing number or Canine Partners number. Spayed and neutered dogs may participate, but females in season are not eligible to run. Each dog is inspected for lameness and fitness before competing.
|
AKC Fast CAT Titles
Fast CAT titles are earned by accumulating points over multiple runs: BCAT Awarded after earning 150 points. DCAT Awarded after earning 500 points. FCAT Awarded after earning 1,000 points. FCAT2 and Higher After earning FCAT, the dog receives another numbered FCAT title for every additional 500 points earned. For example:
The AKC also maintains annual rankings of the fastest dogs in each breed based on the average speed of their three fastest runs during the calendar year. |
How AKC Fast CAT Points Are Calculated A dog’s time is converted into miles per hour using the following formula: 204.545 ÷ the dog’s time in seconds = miles per hour The dog’s speed is then multiplied by its height handicap:
Great Danes fall into the tallest height category, so the number of miles per hour they run is also the number of points they earn. A Great Dane running 25 miles per hour earns approximately 25 Fast CAT points. |
What Happens at an Event?
Before the run, each dog is checked for lameness and fitness to participate. Depending on the dog’s height and the event records, the dog may also be measured.
A typical run requires two capable people:
The lure begins moving and the dog is released on the starter’s signal. The dog runs down the track, crosses the finish line and is secured by the catcher.
This arrangement is especially important with a Great Dane. Both people must be physically capable of holding, releasing and safely catching a large, excited dog. Do not assume an event volunteer will be available to release or catch your dog.
Dogs run one at a time and off leash. The premium list should state whether the track and run-out area are completely fenced, partially fenced or unfenced. Read this information carefully before entering a dog that may be difficult to catch.
Before the run, each dog is checked for lameness and fitness to participate. Depending on the dog’s height and the event records, the dog may also be measured.
A typical run requires two capable people:
- A releaser who safely holds the dog at the starting line
- A catcher who waits beyond the finish line with a leash
The lure begins moving and the dog is released on the starter’s signal. The dog runs down the track, crosses the finish line and is secured by the catcher.
This arrangement is especially important with a Great Dane. Both people must be physically capable of holding, releasing and safely catching a large, excited dog. Do not assume an event volunteer will be available to release or catch your dog.
Dogs run one at a time and off leash. The premium list should state whether the track and run-out area are completely fenced, partially fenced or unfenced. Read this information carefully before entering a dog that may be difficult to catch.
Does My Dog Need Special Training?
Sprinter and Fast CAT require much less formal training than many other dog sports. The dog does not need to heel, retrieve, perform a pattern or follow a series of handler commands.
The primary requirements are that the dog:
Some dogs immediately understand the game. Others are more interested in finding their owner than chasing a plastic lure. A slower first attempt does not necessarily mean the dog will never enjoy the sport. Practice runs, fun runs and an enthusiastic catcher can help a new dog understand what is expected.
The goal should always be for the dog to finish safely and have a positive experience—not simply to record the fastest possible time.
Sprinter and Fast CAT require much less formal training than many other dog sports. The dog does not need to heel, retrieve, perform a pattern or follow a series of handler commands.
The primary requirements are that the dog:
- Is comfortable being held by the releaser
- Will run away from the starting person
- Is interested in chasing the lure or reaching the catcher
- Can be safely caught after finishing
- Is comfortable in an exciting environment with barking dogs
- Is physically conditioned for a full-speed sprint
Some dogs immediately understand the game. Others are more interested in finding their owner than chasing a plastic lure. A slower first attempt does not necessarily mean the dog will never enjoy the sport. Practice runs, fun runs and an enthusiastic catcher can help a new dog understand what is expected.
The goal should always be for the dog to finish safely and have a positive experience—not simply to record the fastest possible time.
Preparing a Great Dane to Sprint
Although dogs may become eligible to enter at 12 months of age, meeting the minimum age requirement does not automatically mean that every dog is physically or mentally ready to sprint at maximum speed.
Great Danes are giant dogs, and their readiness should be considered individually. Before entering, assess the dog’s physical maturity, body condition, previous exercise, confidence and general health.
Helpful preparation includes:
Full-speed sprinting places significant stress on a dog’s muscles and joints. Dogs accustomed to regular exercise are better prepared than dogs that are normally sedentary.
Although dogs may become eligible to enter at 12 months of age, meeting the minimum age requirement does not automatically mean that every dog is physically or mentally ready to sprint at maximum speed.
Great Danes are giant dogs, and their readiness should be considered individually. Before entering, assess the dog’s physical maturity, body condition, previous exercise, confidence and general health.
Helpful preparation includes:
- Regular controlled exercise
- Gradually building cardiovascular fitness
- Practising short recalls between two familiar people
- Teaching the dog to accept being held around the chest
- Using a reliable, non-slip release hold
- Practising being caught and immediately leashed
- Maintaining short nails and healthy paw pads
- Allowing the dog to become familiar with busy event environments
Full-speed sprinting places significant stress on a dog’s muscles and joints. Dogs accustomed to regular exercise are better prepared than dogs that are normally sedentary.
Equipment to Bring
Useful items for a Sprinter or Fast CAT event include:
Avoid dangling tags or accessories that could become caught while the dog is running. The collar should fit securely without restricting breathing or movement. CKC rules prohibit choke, prong and electronic training collars during the run.
Useful items for a Sprinter or Fast CAT event include:
- Two regular leashes
- A secure, properly fitted collar
- Water and a bowl
- A crate or secure resting area
- Shade or weather protection
- Cooling supplies when appropriate
- Towels for wet or muddy conditions
- High-value rewards
- Waste bags
- The dog’s registration information
- A copy of the event premium and running instructions
Avoid dangling tags or accessories that could become caught while the dog is running. The collar should fit securely without restricting breathing or movement. CKC rules prohibit choke, prong and electronic training collars during the run.
Warming Up and Cooling Down
A Sprinter run may last only a few seconds, but it is an intense athletic effort.
Before running, give your dog time to walk and move comfortably. A brief progressive warm-up is more appropriate than allowing the dog to remain crated or lying down until immediately before its turn.
After the run, walk the dog calmly rather than returning it directly to a crate or vehicle. Offer water in reasonable amounts and allow the dog time to cool down. Watch for signs that the dog is tired, sore, overheated or no longer enthusiastic. Entering multiple runs does not mean the dog must complete every run. It is always acceptable to withdraw when continuing would not be in the dog’s best interest.
A Sprinter run may last only a few seconds, but it is an intense athletic effort.
Before running, give your dog time to walk and move comfortably. A brief progressive warm-up is more appropriate than allowing the dog to remain crated or lying down until immediately before its turn.
After the run, walk the dog calmly rather than returning it directly to a crate or vehicle. Offer water in reasonable amounts and allow the dog time to cool down. Watch for signs that the dog is tired, sore, overheated or no longer enthusiastic. Entering multiple runs does not mean the dog must complete every run. It is always acceptable to withdraw when continuing would not be in the dog’s best interest.
Sprinter Safety for Great Danes
Speed is exciting, but safety must always come first.
Do not run a dog that is:
Examine the running surface and run-out area whenever possible. A Great Dane travelling at full speed needs adequate room to slow down. The finish should not require the dog to make a sudden turn or stop abruptly.
Dogs should be inspected after each run for sore feet, damaged nails, stiffness or any change in movement.
Owners are responsible for deciding whether their dog should participate, even when the dog has passed the event’s initial inspection.
Speed is exciting, but safety must always come first.
Do not run a dog that is:
- Lame or showing signs of pain
- Unwell or recovering from illness
- Significantly overweight
- Poorly conditioned for intense activity
- Struggling with the heat
- Frightened by the event environment
- Unable to be safely released or caught
Examine the running surface and run-out area whenever possible. A Great Dane travelling at full speed needs adequate room to slow down. The finish should not require the dog to make a sudden turn or stop abruptly.
Dogs should be inspected after each run for sore feet, damaged nails, stiffness or any change in movement.
Owners are responsible for deciding whether their dog should participate, even when the dog has passed the event’s initial inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Great Danes compete in Sprinter and Fast CAT?
Yes. Great Danes may participate provided they meet the organization’s registration and age requirements and are physically fit to run.
Does my Great Dane need to be extremely fast?
No. Dogs are not racing directly against one another. Each dog runs alone and accumulates points according to its own speed.
Does my dog need to chase the lure?
An interest in the lure makes the sport easier, but some dogs are initially more motivated by reaching a familiar catcher. Not every dog understands the game during its first attempt.
Can altered dogs participate?
Yes. Spayed and neutered dogs may participate in CKC Sprinter and AKC Fast CAT when otherwise eligible.
Can mixed-breed dogs participate?
Yes. Both organizations provide participation options for mixed-breed dogs that have the appropriate competition or registration number.
How old must a dog be?
Dogs must be at least 12 months old to enter either CKC Sprinter or AKC Fast CAT. Individual physical readiness should still be considered, particularly for giant breeds.
Do I need another person?
Plan to have one person release the dog and another catch it. Both should be capable of safely handling a large, excited Great Dane.
Can my dog wear a harness?
Equipment requirements may differ between organizations and host clubs. Review the current rules and the event premium before attending. A secure collar and two leashes should always be available.
Is the course completely fenced?
Not necessarily. The event premium should describe the course and fencing. Never assume the entire track and catch area are enclosed.
Can Great Danes compete in Sprinter and Fast CAT?
Yes. Great Danes may participate provided they meet the organization’s registration and age requirements and are physically fit to run.
Does my Great Dane need to be extremely fast?
No. Dogs are not racing directly against one another. Each dog runs alone and accumulates points according to its own speed.
Does my dog need to chase the lure?
An interest in the lure makes the sport easier, but some dogs are initially more motivated by reaching a familiar catcher. Not every dog understands the game during its first attempt.
Can altered dogs participate?
Yes. Spayed and neutered dogs may participate in CKC Sprinter and AKC Fast CAT when otherwise eligible.
Can mixed-breed dogs participate?
Yes. Both organizations provide participation options for mixed-breed dogs that have the appropriate competition or registration number.
How old must a dog be?
Dogs must be at least 12 months old to enter either CKC Sprinter or AKC Fast CAT. Individual physical readiness should still be considered, particularly for giant breeds.
Do I need another person?
Plan to have one person release the dog and another catch it. Both should be capable of safely handling a large, excited Great Dane.
Can my dog wear a harness?
Equipment requirements may differ between organizations and host clubs. Review the current rules and the event premium before attending. A secure collar and two leashes should always be available.
Is the course completely fenced?
Not necessarily. The event premium should describe the course and fencing. Never assume the entire track and catch area are enclosed.