There’s a vast world of dog sports out there, and I find myself discovering new events and opportunities almost every day. Many of the sports I’ve participated in came from conversations with fellow dog lovers and word of mouth. To help you get started, I’ve narrowed down a list of 10 different dog sports and training levels that are worth exploring. As always, I encourage you to dive into your own research, connect with others in the community to gather insights and seek out training resources tailored to each sport’s requirements. Each event has its own unique appeal and level of commitment, so learning from others and finding the right fit for you and your dog is key.
1. Agility
High Training Level
Agility involves guiding your dog through an obstacle course, including jumps, tunnels, and weave poles. It’s a test of speed, accuracy, and teamwork, requiring both the handler and dog to navigate the course as quickly and cleanly as possible. When it comes to agility trials, many organizations host events across various locations. To get started, check out local clubs and see which ones hold agility trials near you. This can be an excellent way to find events and connect with the agility community in your area. Agility: Get Started
Intermediate Agility class with Rain and classmates
2. Flyball
Low Training Level
Flyball is a relay race where teams of four dogs compete to retrieve a tennis ball from a spring-loaded box and return it to their handler. It’s a high-energy sport that combines speed, accuracy, and teamwork. Flyball is an exhilarating and high-speed sport, where the excitement truly comes alive as dogs and their handlers work in perfect harmony. Watching the seamless teamwork and the rush of competition is nothing short of magical. Flyball 101: How to Compete in Flyball for Dogs
3. Barn Hunt
Low Training Level
Barn Hunt is a sport where dogs search for rats hidden in tubes among bales of hay. It tests the dog's ability to use their nose and work with their handler to locate the hidden rats. It’s a great way to engage a dog’s natural hunting instincts in a controlled environment. Barn Hunt Association
Nosam N Whispering's Beza Rain CAA FCAT SIN CGC TKN
4. Disc Dog
High Training Level
In Disc Dog, dogs and handlers perform tricks and routines involving flying discs. Dogs catch and perform tricks with the disc, and the sport is judged based on accuracy, style, and creativity. Up Dog Challenge
5. Scent Work
High Training Level
Scent Work involves training dogs to detect specific scents and find hidden items or substances. It can range from finding a particular odor in a search area to more complex scenarios, and it’s an excellent way to engage a dog’s sense of smell. AKC Scentwork
Nosam’s Running River BCAT TKN FITB Follow River here
foundations 1 scent work (training class)
Low Training Level
Fast Cat is a time trial where dogs chase a lure over a 100-yard straight away course. This is a great way for dogs to burn off energy and showcase their athleticism and speed. Dogs are timed, and the fastest dogs in their breed categories are recognized and ranked on the AKC website. AKC Fast Cat
High Training Level
Rally Obedience combines elements of traditional obedience with a more relaxed, fun approach. Dogs and handlers navigate a course with various obedience stations, performing specific tasks at each one. It emphasizes teamwork and communication. AKC Rally
RACH Nosam's Aspen Fall Forest CDX PCD BN GN RM3 RAE3 RC TD DCAT CGCA CGCU TKN ATT Owned by Chris McKelvey at Rally Nationals.
Medium Training Level
The CGC program tests dogs on basic obedience and good manners in various everyday situations. It’s not a competitive sport but a valuable certification that demonstrates a dog's reliability and good behavior in public. This can be completed through a dog trainer and class within your community. CGC Get Started
9. Dock Diving
Medium Training Level
Dock Diving involves dogs leaping off a dock into a pool of water to retrieve a toy. Dogs are judged on the distance they jump, and it’s a fantastic way for water-loving dogs to showcase their athleticism. There are different events within the “dog diving” umbrella. North America Diving Dogs
UKC CH Levian's Diamond in The Rough NA I JH DS (Levy of Nosam) at NADD event
10. Trick Dog
Medium Training Level
Trick Dog focuses on teaching and performing a variety of tricks, from basic commands to complex routines. It’s a fun way to engage with your dog, and there are various levels of certification to achieve as you progress. Rain just received her first Trick Dog title while attending a Fast Cat event. Keep an eye out at your other sporting events for opportunities to explore additional activities or experiences. AKC Trick Dog
Get Started Today: Find an event near you by visiting AKC Event Search & Results
(Wonderfur Photography)
Each of these dog sports offer unique opportunities for bonding with your dog and honing their skills. Exploring different sports can help you find the perfect fit for both you and your furry companion, while also adding a new dimension to your relationship. Keep in mind, that this list is just a starting point—there are countless other dog sports out there waiting for you and your pup to discover together!
If you missed the first blog post check it out : Beginners Guide to Dog Sports
If you would like to follow along on Rain’s journey, follow us on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram @rain_the_weim.
About the Author
Rain, CGC, FCAT, CAA, SIN, RATN, TKN
Rain is an exceptional Weimaraner that has consistently been the fastest-ranked Weimaraner for the past three years, reaching speeds up to 30 mph in Fast Cat, 100-yard race. Her impressive performance extends beyond speed; Rain excels in various dog sports, including barn hunt, scent work, CAT, trick dog, and agility. While she loves her people immensely, Rain’s passions also include chasing tennis balls, indulging in treats, and any chance to hunt. Her enthusiasm and skill make her a standout in the dog sports community.
Megan Bohinc, MA, PCC-S, LPC, MFT
Megan Bohinc is licensed as a Professional Clinical Counselor/Supervisor and Marriage and Family Therapist in both Ohio and Georgia. With over 17 years of experience as a therapist, she specializes in working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families in nonprofit, private, and higher educational settings.
Outside of her professional life, Megan enjoys spending time with her dog, Rain, participating in various dog sports. She also frequently travels to Ethiopia to volunteer with an organization dedicated to teaching high-risk women valuable skills to help preserve families, prevent orphanhood, and empower women.
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