Flyball

 

Flyball first became popular as a sport in America and made its debut in the UK at Crufts in 1990.

 

Each team must have four dogs and handlers plus a 'box loader' and 2 reserves. Two teams compete at one time, with each dog jumping over four hurdles in succession before triggering the Flyball box. A tennis ball is then released which the dog must catch and hold while returning over the hurdles to the start line. The next dog is released as the returning dog reaches the start/finish line.

 

The first team to have its fourth dog across the finish line without any faults (eg dropping the ball), with any part of the dog's body, wins the race.

 

Usually the best of five runs decides which team proceeds to the next heat but this can vary.