The Total K-9 Experience!
EVENTS
Proud winners of multiple awards for BEST Dog Training!
LET THE GAMES BEGIN!
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ALPHA K9 U, LLC
69th FORD INDIANAPOLIS BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW
K-9 X GAMES & DOG DOCK-DIVING COMPETITION
K-9 X GAMES & DOCK-DIVING COMPETITION
The K-9 X Games Shows are performances by the Alpha K-9 U Crew exhibiting the different dock-diving sport disciplines such as Big Air, X-treme Retrieve, X-treme Vertical, and added to the lineup, the newest discipline, X'treme Air.
Competition Waves is a Big Air Dock-Diving Competition with all levels of teams, from new to professionals, competing for placements & awards - then the Top Alpha Dogs of all divisions are invited to compete in the grand finale, the Finals!
K-9 X GAMES & COMPETITION EVENT
What: Dock-Diving Competition
When: Friday, February 16, 2024 through Sunday, February 25, 2024
Where: Indiana State Fair Grounds
VENUE
The 69th Ford Indianapolis Boat, Sport & Travel Show ~The Largest Sports Show in the Nation ~ The Alpha K9 U Dock-Diving Competition will be held at the Champions Pavilion at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, 1202 East 38th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana (on the corner of East 38th Street and Fall Creek Parkway).
PARKING
Parking is available for $10 per vehicle.
CHAMPIONS PAVILION
The Alpha K9 U X Games Show & Dock-Diving Competition will be held at the Champions Pavilion. Handlers and dogs MUST enter through the east door entrance. (Please be advised: admission is free for the HANDLER & K-9 TEAM ONLY - all others must purchase tickets online or at the north gate (main) entrance.
TEAM ENTRANCE
The Team (Handler/Dog) entrance is located on the east side of the Champions Pavilion (There is a side street behind the Champions Pavilion; the entry door will be marked "Alpha K9 U - Handler/K-9 Entrance").
DOCK-DIVING COMPETITION GENERAL INFO
K-9 Vaccination Requirements/Rabies
Competition(s) Preregistration/Entry Fees
To pre-register for any or all of the competition waves, the total entry fees are payable in full, provided the wave/heat is not full. The preregistration entry fee is thirty dollars ($30) per team/ wave for "Big Air" and thirty dollars ($30) per Team for X'treme Air, X'treme Retrieve, and X'treme Vertical. To Pre-register for any of the following events, contact Amy directly at #317.284.1299 Ext. 305 or email Amy at: amy@alphak9u.com.
For your convenience, you may also complete the preregistration request below. Please be aware that preregistration is limited to thirty (30) teams per wave; some events may have already been filled before receiving your reservation(s) request. But rest assured, as always, we will do our best to accommodate your requests!
Refund Policy - All entry fees are non-refundable should the Team decide to withdraw from the competition or should the competition be canceled for reasons beyond the Event's Organizer's control.
Competition Preregistration Notice
Pre-Reg will be limited to thirty (30) teams per Big Air Wave for this Event, twenty (20) teams per X'treme Air, fifteen (15) teams per X'treme Retrieve Heat, and fifteen (15) teams competing in X'treme Vertical.
Competition Registration/Entry Fees
Following the preregistration deadline, a team may register onsite one (1) hour before any wave during the Event's day run, provided the wave is not full - The fee to register onsite on the event day is $35 per team/per wave.
Only Cash or Checks will be accepted onsite.
Refund Policy - All entry fees are non-refundable should the Team decide to withdraw from the competition or should the competition be canceled for reasons beyond the Event's Organizer's control.
HANDLER/TEAM GENERAL INFO
Check-In
Immediately upon your arrival, please check in at the Alpha K9 U registration desk to confirm show times, wave(s), heat(s), etc., and sign the necessary paperwork.
Staging Area
There is a staging area for participants, competitors, and their dogs. Spectators are not permitted in the staging area. Only Handlers who have signed the Alpha K9 U, LLC Liability Release are allowed in the staging area! All dogs must be kept in the competition staging area unless participating in the X Games Show and practicing during open dock and while competing. Please be advised! K-9s are NOT ALLOWED outside the designated "competition areas" without express permission from the Alpha K9 U Event Coordinator in the area of bystanders, audience/spectators, etc. In addition, dogs are not allowed inside "The Sports Show" itself and in or around public areas (this includes walking your Dog through "The Sports Show" to get to the Champions Pavilion) - ALL K-9s MUST ALWAYS ENTER/EXIT THROUGH THE EAST ENTRANCE DOOR OF THE CHAMPIONS PAVILION.
Best Practices
The K-9 X Games Shows are performances by the Alpha K-9 U Crew exhibiting the different dock-diving sport disciplines such as Big Air, X-treme Retrieve, X-treme Vertical, and added to the lineup, the newest discipline, X'treme Air.
Competition Waves is a Big Air Dock-Diving Competition with all levels of teams, from new to professionals, competing for placements & awards - then the Top Alpha Dogs of all divisions are invited to compete in the grand finale, the Finals!
K-9 X GAMES & COMPETITION EVENT
What: Dock-Diving Competition
When: Friday, February 16, 2024 through Sunday, February 25, 2024
Where: Indiana State Fair Grounds
VENUE
The 69th Ford Indianapolis Boat, Sport & Travel Show ~The Largest Sports Show in the Nation ~ The Alpha K9 U Dock-Diving Competition will be held at the Champions Pavilion at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, 1202 East 38th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana (on the corner of East 38th Street and Fall Creek Parkway).
PARKING
Parking is available for $10 per vehicle.
CHAMPIONS PAVILION
The Alpha K9 U X Games Show & Dock-Diving Competition will be held at the Champions Pavilion. Handlers and dogs MUST enter through the east door entrance. (Please be advised: admission is free for the HANDLER & K-9 TEAM ONLY - all others must purchase tickets online or at the north gate (main) entrance.
TEAM ENTRANCE
The Team (Handler/Dog) entrance is located on the east side of the Champions Pavilion (There is a side street behind the Champions Pavilion; the entry door will be marked "Alpha K9 U - Handler/K-9 Entrance").
DOCK-DIVING COMPETITION GENERAL INFO
K-9 Vaccination Requirements/Rabies
Competition(s) Preregistration/Entry Fees
To pre-register for any or all of the competition waves, the total entry fees are payable in full, provided the wave/heat is not full. The preregistration entry fee is thirty dollars ($30) per team/ wave for "Big Air" and thirty dollars ($30) per Team for X'treme Air, X'treme Retrieve, and X'treme Vertical. To Pre-register for any of the following events, contact Amy directly at #317.284.1299 Ext. 305 or email Amy at: amy@alphak9u.com.
For your convenience, you may also complete the preregistration request below. Please be aware that preregistration is limited to thirty (30) teams per wave; some events may have already been filled before receiving your reservation(s) request. But rest assured, as always, we will do our best to accommodate your requests!
Refund Policy - All entry fees are non-refundable should the Team decide to withdraw from the competition or should the competition be canceled for reasons beyond the Event's Organizer's control.
Competition Preregistration Notice
Pre-Reg will be limited to thirty (30) teams per Big Air Wave for this Event, twenty (20) teams per X'treme Air, fifteen (15) teams per X'treme Retrieve Heat, and fifteen (15) teams competing in X'treme Vertical.
Competition Registration/Entry Fees
Following the preregistration deadline, a team may register onsite one (1) hour before any wave during the Event's day run, provided the wave is not full - The fee to register onsite on the event day is $35 per team/per wave.
Only Cash or Checks will be accepted onsite.
Refund Policy - All entry fees are non-refundable should the Team decide to withdraw from the competition or should the competition be canceled for reasons beyond the Event's Organizer's control.
HANDLER/TEAM GENERAL INFO
Check-In
Immediately upon your arrival, please check in at the Alpha K9 U registration desk to confirm show times, wave(s), heat(s), etc., and sign the necessary paperwork.
Staging Area
There is a staging area for participants, competitors, and their dogs. Spectators are not permitted in the staging area. Only Handlers who have signed the Alpha K9 U, LLC Liability Release are allowed in the staging area! All dogs must be kept in the competition staging area unless participating in the X Games Show and practicing during open dock and while competing. Please be advised! K-9s are NOT ALLOWED outside the designated "competition areas" without express permission from the Alpha K9 U Event Coordinator in the area of bystanders, audience/spectators, etc. In addition, dogs are not allowed inside "The Sports Show" itself and in or around public areas (this includes walking your Dog through "The Sports Show" to get to the Champions Pavilion) - ALL K-9s MUST ALWAYS ENTER/EXIT THROUGH THE EAST ENTRANCE DOOR OF THE CHAMPIONS PAVILION.
Best Practices
- All dogs MUST be on a leash no longer than six (6) feet long. Retractable leashes (i.e., Flexi-Leads) are strictly prohibited.
- Respect the space of all others at all times! We ask that you please maintain a minimum of eight (8) feet between your Dog and all other competing dogs (other handlers and bystanders) at all times.
The aforementioned guidelines are some, but not limited to, General Rules & Best Practices!
*A complete list of Competition Regulations can be found at the bottom of this web-page*
*A complete list of Competition Regulations can be found at the bottom of this web-page*
Downloadable/Printable Docs
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Specifications/Dimensions
The Dock - The Dock is forty (40) feet long by eight (8) feet wide. The top of the dock surface is twenty-four (24) inches off the water surface.
The pool is 21'X41'X52" - 28,000 + gallon pool.
Alpha Air Dogs
Alpha Air ("Big Air") is a "long jump for dogs." The Dog, which may be placed anywhere on the forty (40) foot dock, runs and jumps into the water after a retrievable object with sixty (60) seconds to execute each jump; the Team is given two (2) jumps in each competing Wave. The longer distance of the two (2) jumps is the Team's official score for that Wave. The measurement is taken at the point at which the tail set (where the tail meets the body) intersects with the water.
Ranking/Divisions
Divisions allow competitors to be competitive at their current jumping level and work towards advancement. All teams are ranked according to how far the Dog jumps and are rated against teams within their Divisions for Division Placements (e.g., Novice, Jr., Sr., etc.). Older dogs (eight (8) years or older) have their own Vet's (Veteran) Division.* We will be adding a "Mighty Dog" Division (fourteen inches (14") or less) to our program very soon. *Please note: You must notify Alpha K9 U staff upon Registration if your Team is competing in the Vet's Division or for Division Placements (e.g., Novice, Junior, Senior, etc.).
Division Jump Distance
X' Vertical
X' Vertical® is a "high jump" for dogs. A bumper is suspended from an extender eight (8) feet out from the dock and at heights ranging from four feet six inches (4'6") up to as high as the Dog can jump. The Handler sets the Dog anywhere in front of the twenty (20) foot mark on the dock and has sixty (60) seconds to complete each Launch/Jump. The Bumper must be snatched wholly or cleanly knocked down into the water by the Dog for the Launch/Jump to be scored as a "make." The Bumper is moved up in two-inch (2") increments as the participating dogs execute the Launch/Jump. Each Dog is given two (2) chances to accomplish the Launch/Jump at each height.
Please note: A few dog diseases/illnesses are contagious and can be transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids (e.g., saliva) and contact with contaminated surfaces such as bumpers; consequently, please feel free to bring your Bumper, and we will utilize your Bumper for you and your Team during practice, classes, and competitions.
Division Launch/Jump Height
Rocket X: Up to 5'11"
Missile X: 6'0" and above
X'treme Retrieve
X'treme Retrieve is a "timed event." A Bumper is suspended two (2) inches above the water towards the end of the pool (thirty- eight feet (38') from the dock). The Handler sets the Dog at the ten-foot (10') mark on the dock; when the signal is given, the timer starts, and the Dog is released. The Dog runs down the dock, jumps into the water, and swims to obtain the Bumper. When the Dog takes hold of the Bumper, the Dog must retrieve the Bumper and bring the Bumper back to the finish line, at which point the timer stops. If the Dog begins to run and crosses the ten (10') mark before the signal is given, it is considered a false start, and the run time equates to zero (0). If the Dog does not retrieve the Bumper and does not bring the Bumper past the finish line, the run time equates to zero (0). The Handler/Dog Team has ninety (90) seconds to execute the run. Each Team is given two (2) runs in each heat, with the best time of the two (2) runs being the official score for that heat.
GENERAL RULES
Scoring
The official Jump distance is measured from the end of the dock to the point at which the Dog breaks the water closest to the dock (where the tail meets the buttocks), not including the tail.
The Dog/Handler Teams are ranked within each Wave Round according to their jump distances.
At no time may a Competitor pass their first jump in each Wave Round, but a competitor may elect to "pass" on the second jump of that Wave Round and will receive a jump distance for that jump of zero (0) feet and zero (0) inches – this will be considered a "Scratch."
As a rule, a Jump is considered official when the Handler's Chase Object hits the water, and the Dog retrieves it. If the Dog jumps before the toss or before a handler "is ready," this IS considered a Jump. The jump is counted regardless of whether the Dog jumps independently, without control of the Handler, or if a dog stops and jumps from a stand, jumps off the side of the dock onto the ramp, etc.
A tie in the Final Round of a Wave will result in a "jump-off." Each Dog will have one (1) jump, and the longer the two distances, the winner will be declared.
During the Finals of any event, should two (2) or more dogs be tied at the end of the Final Round, a one (1) jump "jump-off" will occur. The longest jump of the "jump-off" will be declared the winner.
Competition/Competition Flow/Running Order
The competition Team will consist of one (1) dog and one (1) handler only. The Handler must be able to throw the chase/retrievable object while keeping the Dog under control and encouraging it to jump to the best of their ability. The Handler may, at their option, allow the Dog to jump while wearing a collar. The collar should only be buckle-type and should not include hanging tags or brackets. Choke collars, prong collars, electronic collars (including electronic collar receivers & transmitters), gentle leaders, halti-collars, or martingale-type collars must be removed before stepping onto the dock.
Running order is determined randomly by the Alpha K9 U staff/event coordinators. The running order will be announced at the Handlers' Meeting or in the staging area immediately preceding the start of the competition.
Teams will be held in a specified staging area. If your name is called and you are not in the staging area ready to run your Wave, your run will be forfeited, and the Wave Fees will not be refunded.
The Judge and an Alpha K9 U Representative will hold a "Handlers' Meeting" before the start of each competitive Wave at all events. Competitors' attendance at this meeting is required. If you are absent during this meeting, your Wave will be forfeited, and the Wave Fees will not be refunded.
All competitors within each Wave will be broken down into Groups of no more than twenty (20) Dogs/Handlers. One group at a time, each Dog will be given one (1) jump in rotation order; after the rotation of all dog/handler teams has been completed, all dogs will then take a second jump in the same rotation order.
When your group is called, while standing in line waiting for your turn on the dock, it is your responsibility to keep your Dog out of reach of all others at all times. Keep your Dog next to you and at no greater than a four (4) foot distance from your control position (at your side). When it is your turn to compete, please lead your Dog towards the Dock Entrance/Event Wrangler. The Event Wrangler will always assist you and let you know when you may proceed to the competition dock.
Only (1) one Team may be on the dock or in the pool at a time. The previous competitor must have their Dog out of the pool and on leash on the exit ramp before the next competitor releases their Dog onto the dock.
Disqualifications
The Bubble Format
The Highest Distance Jump of each event Team will be used to determine Divisional Finals Qualification. A Bubble will be posted at the end of every day of the event and list every Team's Highest Distance Jump throughout the event and whether or not they are currently qualifying for finals.
Each event division's Top Five (5) Teams will advance to the Finals.
If two (2) different Handlers compete with the same Dog, and both are the top-scoring teams, only the SCORING DOG/HANDLER TEAM will advance to the finals.
PLEASE NOTE: These standings are only temporary and change after every Wave; ONLY the Highest Distance Jump is used to determine the category of the Division/Team. "Sandbagging" i.e., A Handler purposely holding a dog back from their potential, trying to move into a lower division, will not be tolerated.
Ribbons/Medals & Awards
Rank all Teams from first place to last place.
Recognize the Top Three (3) Teams in each division and may or may not provide recognition to the other entries. However, in most cases, participant awards will be given to the remaining Teams who complete a jump.
Ribbons/Medals and awards shall be awarded within thirty (30) minutes following each Wave or Finals Round.
In general, blue, red, and white ribbons are awarded to the designated top teams/divisions.
Handlers (or a representative) must be present to receive Ribbons and Medals.
Ribbons/Medals (and awards) will NOT be mailed.
Divisions Titles
Titles are based on the performance of the Dog and Handler Team.
Within each Wave of competition (not including Finals), a Team can secure one (1) division leg toward a title based on their score.
A Title is earned by accumulating five (5) legs within one (1) division.
A Team that has earned a Division Title will continue to compete for event standings within each event and a spot in the Overall Rankings.
A Team may earn legs in more than one (1) division over the course of competitions.
A more advanced title will be awarded upon completing five (5) legs in the next higher division but not the lower one.
If a Team earns a Division Title or moves up to a more advanced Division Title at any time during a particular event, the change will not be in effect until after the event has ended.
EVENT INFORMATION
Check-In/Open Dock
Immediately upon your arrival, please leave your canine companion(s) in your vehicle. At the same time, you check in at the administration desk to provide proof of vaccinations, confirm your Wave (s), and sign the appropriate documents (i.e., Waiver of Liability, etc.). Following check-in, immediately remove your Dog (s) from your vehicle. There is a staging/crating area for competitors and their dogs. Please bring a crate for your Dog, specifically if you are competing in more than one (1) wave on the same day. PLEASE NOTE: Spectators are not permitted in the staging area. Only handlers (and family members of handlers) who have signed the Alpha K9 U, LLC Liability Release are allowed in the staging area!
Open Dock/Practice
The dock is open before the competing Wave (s). Please note that you may only utilize the open dock time to practice IF you are registered for the subsequent competition wave. Please refer to the Wave Schedule for the open dock/designated practice times.
Handlers Meeting/Judges Briefing/Competing Waves
An Alpha K9 U Instructor or Judge will announce the Handlers' Meeting/Judges Briefing approximately fifteen (15) minutes at the start of each Wave. This meeting is imperative for all handlers, and attendance is mandatory. All pertinent information will be discussed during this meeting, and the Groups/Running Order will be announced.
What to Bring
Dogs: You are welcome to bring a crate, waste bags, food, treats, water, bowls, towels, blankets, toys, and anything else necessary for your Dog's comfort and care while at the event. Humans: You are welcome to bring a change of clothes, socks (you will get wet), chairs, coolers, snack foods, or other items deemed necessary for your comfort and care while at the event. All of these things should remain within the Staging area. Bring a toy that your Dog is crazy about. Any toy that they like that will float is a good choice. Wubbas, hunting dummies, bumpers, etc., are training toys for many people because they float and are easy to see. Don't forget your camera!
The Dock - The Dock is forty (40) feet long by eight (8) feet wide. The top of the dock surface is twenty-four (24) inches off the water surface.
The pool is 21'X41'X52" - 28,000 + gallon pool.
Alpha Air Dogs
Alpha Air ("Big Air") is a "long jump for dogs." The Dog, which may be placed anywhere on the forty (40) foot dock, runs and jumps into the water after a retrievable object with sixty (60) seconds to execute each jump; the Team is given two (2) jumps in each competing Wave. The longer distance of the two (2) jumps is the Team's official score for that Wave. The measurement is taken at the point at which the tail set (where the tail meets the body) intersects with the water.
Ranking/Divisions
Divisions allow competitors to be competitive at their current jumping level and work towards advancement. All teams are ranked according to how far the Dog jumps and are rated against teams within their Divisions for Division Placements (e.g., Novice, Jr., Sr., etc.). Older dogs (eight (8) years or older) have their own Vet's (Veteran) Division.* We will be adding a "Mighty Dog" Division (fourteen inches (14") or less) to our program very soon. *Please note: You must notify Alpha K9 U staff upon Registration if your Team is competing in the Vet's Division or for Division Placements (e.g., Novice, Junior, Senior, etc.).
Division Jump Distance
- NOVICE: 0’1” – 9’11”
- JUNIOR: 10'0” -14'11”
- SENIOR: 15'0” -19'11”
- MASTER: 20’0” – 24’11”
- ALPHA ELITE: 25'0+
X' Vertical
X' Vertical® is a "high jump" for dogs. A bumper is suspended from an extender eight (8) feet out from the dock and at heights ranging from four feet six inches (4'6") up to as high as the Dog can jump. The Handler sets the Dog anywhere in front of the twenty (20) foot mark on the dock and has sixty (60) seconds to complete each Launch/Jump. The Bumper must be snatched wholly or cleanly knocked down into the water by the Dog for the Launch/Jump to be scored as a "make." The Bumper is moved up in two-inch (2") increments as the participating dogs execute the Launch/Jump. Each Dog is given two (2) chances to accomplish the Launch/Jump at each height.
Please note: A few dog diseases/illnesses are contagious and can be transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids (e.g., saliva) and contact with contaminated surfaces such as bumpers; consequently, please feel free to bring your Bumper, and we will utilize your Bumper for you and your Team during practice, classes, and competitions.
Division Launch/Jump Height
Rocket X: Up to 5'11"
Missile X: 6'0" and above
X'treme Retrieve
X'treme Retrieve is a "timed event." A Bumper is suspended two (2) inches above the water towards the end of the pool (thirty- eight feet (38') from the dock). The Handler sets the Dog at the ten-foot (10') mark on the dock; when the signal is given, the timer starts, and the Dog is released. The Dog runs down the dock, jumps into the water, and swims to obtain the Bumper. When the Dog takes hold of the Bumper, the Dog must retrieve the Bumper and bring the Bumper back to the finish line, at which point the timer stops. If the Dog begins to run and crosses the ten (10') mark before the signal is given, it is considered a false start, and the run time equates to zero (0). If the Dog does not retrieve the Bumper and does not bring the Bumper past the finish line, the run time equates to zero (0). The Handler/Dog Team has ninety (90) seconds to execute the run. Each Team is given two (2) runs in each heat, with the best time of the two (2) runs being the official score for that heat.
GENERAL RULES
- Handlers may get wet and should be prepared to dress accordingly, including footwear (i.e., closed-toe non-slip shoes).
- To be eligible to compete, handlers must be present and registered for the Wave they wish to compete in THIRTY (30) MINUTES BEFORE the Wave is scheduled to start. If a handler is late, they will be asked to register for the next Wave.
- Dogs must be in control and restrained at all times. Dogs must be kept on a leash and be held at a four-foot (4') distance (or shorter) from the Handler or "crated" (when the Dog is not working) in the designated staging area at all times. Retractable leads (i.e., Flexi Leads) are strictly prohibited.
- Crates, pens, and shades can be set up in the staging area for dogs while they are not competing, but dogs must be supervised and provided adequate water and care.
- Spectators are not permitted in the staging area. Only handlers who have signed the Alpha K9 U, LLC Liability Release (and family of handlers) are allowed in the area.
- Bitches in heat will not be allowed on the dock or anywhere within the competition venue.
- Dogs that appear to be injured will not be allowed to participate. Should a dog appear injured or ill, the Handler will be asked to cease competition until the Dog regains health. Examples of injury will include visible limping, bandages, stitches, open wounds, etc.
- Should a dog be known to have had a recent injury or be exhibiting bandage wraps, etc., a letter from an accredited veterinarian, on appropriate letterhead, must be presented to the Judge no less than thirty (30) minutes before a Wave, stating that the Dog is healthy and able to compete.
- Dogs cannot "mark," urinate, or defecate anywhere in the Facility. If an accident happens, handlers are responsible for cleaning up after their Dog and dispose of all waste OUTSIDE in the bins provided.
- Handlers are responsible for alerting Alpha K9 U Staff if their Dog is aggressive, Dog aggressive or has "space issues."
- If a dog bites/snaps at another dog or person, including the Handler, it is at the Alpha K9 U staff's discretion whether to let the Dog continue participating.
- If a dog has problems getting out of the pool, it is the Handler's responsibility to get them out. DO NOT pull the Dog up and OVER the sides of the pool!
- Unsportsmanlike behavior or abuse/harsh correction to a dog (as determined by the Alpha K9 U staff) will not be tolerated.
- At no time may a participant or spectator interfere with another participant, touch, or interfere with another participant's/person's Dog.
- Your chase/throw object/ toy must float and may not be edible; rocks, sticks, etc., are prohibited. Wubbas, hunting dummies, bumpers, etc., are training toys for many people because they float and are easy to see.
- Purposefully holding a dog back from their potential (Sandbagging) is not only in bad taste but is considered unsportsmanlike behavior and is highly frowned upon!
Scoring
The official Jump distance is measured from the end of the dock to the point at which the Dog breaks the water closest to the dock (where the tail meets the buttocks), not including the tail.
The Dog/Handler Teams are ranked within each Wave Round according to their jump distances.
At no time may a Competitor pass their first jump in each Wave Round, but a competitor may elect to "pass" on the second jump of that Wave Round and will receive a jump distance for that jump of zero (0) feet and zero (0) inches – this will be considered a "Scratch."
As a rule, a Jump is considered official when the Handler's Chase Object hits the water, and the Dog retrieves it. If the Dog jumps before the toss or before a handler "is ready," this IS considered a Jump. The jump is counted regardless of whether the Dog jumps independently, without control of the Handler, or if a dog stops and jumps from a stand, jumps off the side of the dock onto the ramp, etc.
A tie in the Final Round of a Wave will result in a "jump-off." Each Dog will have one (1) jump, and the longer the two distances, the winner will be declared.
During the Finals of any event, should two (2) or more dogs be tied at the end of the Final Round, a one (1) jump "jump-off" will occur. The longest jump of the "jump-off" will be declared the winner.
Competition/Competition Flow/Running Order
The competition Team will consist of one (1) dog and one (1) handler only. The Handler must be able to throw the chase/retrievable object while keeping the Dog under control and encouraging it to jump to the best of their ability. The Handler may, at their option, allow the Dog to jump while wearing a collar. The collar should only be buckle-type and should not include hanging tags or brackets. Choke collars, prong collars, electronic collars (including electronic collar receivers & transmitters), gentle leaders, halti-collars, or martingale-type collars must be removed before stepping onto the dock.
Running order is determined randomly by the Alpha K9 U staff/event coordinators. The running order will be announced at the Handlers' Meeting or in the staging area immediately preceding the start of the competition.
Teams will be held in a specified staging area. If your name is called and you are not in the staging area ready to run your Wave, your run will be forfeited, and the Wave Fees will not be refunded.
The Judge and an Alpha K9 U Representative will hold a "Handlers' Meeting" before the start of each competitive Wave at all events. Competitors' attendance at this meeting is required. If you are absent during this meeting, your Wave will be forfeited, and the Wave Fees will not be refunded.
All competitors within each Wave will be broken down into Groups of no more than twenty (20) Dogs/Handlers. One group at a time, each Dog will be given one (1) jump in rotation order; after the rotation of all dog/handler teams has been completed, all dogs will then take a second jump in the same rotation order.
When your group is called, while standing in line waiting for your turn on the dock, it is your responsibility to keep your Dog out of reach of all others at all times. Keep your Dog next to you and at no greater than a four (4) foot distance from your control position (at your side). When it is your turn to compete, please lead your Dog towards the Dock Entrance/Event Wrangler. The Event Wrangler will always assist you and let you know when you may proceed to the competition dock.
Only (1) one Team may be on the dock or in the pool at a time. The previous competitor must have their Dog out of the pool and on leash on the exit ramp before the next competitor releases their Dog onto the dock.
Disqualifications
- Dog aggression in any form will not be allowed. It is the responsibility of the Handler to ensure their dogs are not put in any conditions or situations that may provoke their Dog or other dogs. One warning will be given before disqualification.
- The Handler may NOT jump into the water at any time.
- Bumping, pushing, or throwing a dog into the water WILL result in disqualification.
- Pulling or pushing a dog up the stairs to the dock or on the dock WILL result in disqualification.
- Dog abuse will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
- Dogs in season are not allowed to compete. Should a competitor attempt to bring a dog in season to the event, that Team will be immediately disqualified, and the Handler and all their dogs will be barred from the competing venue.
- Any unsportsmanlike behavior or harsh dog corrections is unacceptable. The Judge, Alpha K9 U Event Personnel, and the Event Promoters can and will determine what is disrespectful, aggressive, harsh, or questionable. One warning will be given before disqualification.
- YOU are responsible for cleaning up after your Dog. Not cleaning up after your Dog at the Alpha K9 U Facility/Campus, a Venue, OR Hotel Sponsors WILL result in immediate disqualification. Furthermore, allowing a dog to "mark" anywhere within the competition venue may result in disqualification.
The Bubble Format
The Highest Distance Jump of each event Team will be used to determine Divisional Finals Qualification. A Bubble will be posted at the end of every day of the event and list every Team's Highest Distance Jump throughout the event and whether or not they are currently qualifying for finals.
Each event division's Top Five (5) Teams will advance to the Finals.
If two (2) different Handlers compete with the same Dog, and both are the top-scoring teams, only the SCORING DOG/HANDLER TEAM will advance to the finals.
PLEASE NOTE: These standings are only temporary and change after every Wave; ONLY the Highest Distance Jump is used to determine the category of the Division/Team. "Sandbagging" i.e., A Handler purposely holding a dog back from their potential, trying to move into a lower division, will not be tolerated.
Ribbons/Medals & Awards
Rank all Teams from first place to last place.
Recognize the Top Three (3) Teams in each division and may or may not provide recognition to the other entries. However, in most cases, participant awards will be given to the remaining Teams who complete a jump.
Ribbons/Medals and awards shall be awarded within thirty (30) minutes following each Wave or Finals Round.
In general, blue, red, and white ribbons are awarded to the designated top teams/divisions.
Handlers (or a representative) must be present to receive Ribbons and Medals.
Ribbons/Medals (and awards) will NOT be mailed.
Divisions Titles
Titles are based on the performance of the Dog and Handler Team.
Within each Wave of competition (not including Finals), a Team can secure one (1) division leg toward a title based on their score.
A Title is earned by accumulating five (5) legs within one (1) division.
A Team that has earned a Division Title will continue to compete for event standings within each event and a spot in the Overall Rankings.
A Team may earn legs in more than one (1) division over the course of competitions.
A more advanced title will be awarded upon completing five (5) legs in the next higher division but not the lower one.
If a Team earns a Division Title or moves up to a more advanced Division Title at any time during a particular event, the change will not be in effect until after the event has ended.
EVENT INFORMATION
Check-In/Open Dock
Immediately upon your arrival, please leave your canine companion(s) in your vehicle. At the same time, you check in at the administration desk to provide proof of vaccinations, confirm your Wave (s), and sign the appropriate documents (i.e., Waiver of Liability, etc.). Following check-in, immediately remove your Dog (s) from your vehicle. There is a staging/crating area for competitors and their dogs. Please bring a crate for your Dog, specifically if you are competing in more than one (1) wave on the same day. PLEASE NOTE: Spectators are not permitted in the staging area. Only handlers (and family members of handlers) who have signed the Alpha K9 U, LLC Liability Release are allowed in the staging area!
Open Dock/Practice
The dock is open before the competing Wave (s). Please note that you may only utilize the open dock time to practice IF you are registered for the subsequent competition wave. Please refer to the Wave Schedule for the open dock/designated practice times.
Handlers Meeting/Judges Briefing/Competing Waves
An Alpha K9 U Instructor or Judge will announce the Handlers' Meeting/Judges Briefing approximately fifteen (15) minutes at the start of each Wave. This meeting is imperative for all handlers, and attendance is mandatory. All pertinent information will be discussed during this meeting, and the Groups/Running Order will be announced.
What to Bring
Dogs: You are welcome to bring a crate, waste bags, food, treats, water, bowls, towels, blankets, toys, and anything else necessary for your Dog's comfort and care while at the event. Humans: You are welcome to bring a change of clothes, socks (you will get wet), chairs, coolers, snack foods, or other items deemed necessary for your comfort and care while at the event. All of these things should remain within the Staging area. Bring a toy that your Dog is crazy about. Any toy that they like that will float is a good choice. Wubbas, hunting dummies, bumpers, etc., are training toys for many people because they float and are easy to see. Don't forget your camera!
Pre-registration is available by calling Alpha K9 U at 317-284-1299 or on-site one (1) hour before competitive Wave (s) unless the event is full.
Handlers can register an unlimited number of dogs, and there is no limit to the number of dogs allowed to advance to the finals.
All Handlers should be prepared to perform in front of spectators/audience, be on camera, and dress accordingly.
Alpha K9 U, LLC reserves the right to make any changes to the rules, regulations, services, events, or any other materials to benefit the sport.
Alpha K9 U, LLC reserves the right to use its discretion in making any judgment calls, disqualifications, refusal of service, or corrections necessary to provide accurate and fair event operation and competition results.