Fast Paws SYdney F.A.Q
General – Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to commonly asked questions about our products and services.
What is lure coursing?
Lure coursing is a fun, high-speed sport where dogs chase a mechanically operated lure around a set course. It mimics the thrill of the chase, providing great exercise and mental stimulation for dogs.
What is Fast Paws Sydney?
Fast Paws Sydney is a club that organizes sprint dog lure coursing events, giving dogs of all breeds and sizes the chance to experience the excitement of running after the lure in a safe, controlled environment.
Is lure coursing safe for my dog?
Yes! Lure coursing is designed to be safe for dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes. The courses are set up on secure fields with safety as a priority. However, as with any physical activity, please consult your vet if you have concerns about your dog’s fitness level.
Can any dog participate?
Yes! Sprint and Lure coursing is open to all breeds, including mixed breeds. Whether your dog is a sighthound or not, they are welcome to join in the fun. Small dogs, large dogs, young or old—there’s a place for everyone.
Does my dog need to be trained beforehand?
No prior training is required. The instinct to chase is natural for most dogs, and they quickly understand the game. However, if your dog is hesitant at first, we encourage patience and positive reinforcement.
Do I need any special equipment for my dog?
No special equipment is needed. Your dog should wear a well-fitting collar (flat collars are preferred) and be on a leash when not running.
How can I get involved with Fast Paws Sydney?
We are always looking for volunteers and dog lovers to help at events. If you’re interested, reach out to us through our website or social media.
Event & Participation – Frequently Asked Questions
How do I sign up for an event?
You can register for an event through Show Manager website . Remember spots can fill up quickly.
What should I bring to an event?
– A leash and flat collar – NO PRONG, CHOKE OR prong, choke, or e-collars
– A person to catch or release your dog
– A chair
– Plenty of water for your dog
– Crate or Portable Shade
– Poop Bags
– Jacket or Coat (for colder months)
– Sunscreen
– A crate or shaded area for resting between runs
– Treats or a favorite toy for post-run rewards
– A positive attitude—get ready to have fun!
Can my puppy participate?
Yes, but with some restrictions. Puppies under 12 months (SprintDog™) and 16 months (Lure Coursing) should run shorter distances to prevent strain on developing joints. We recommend checking with your vet to ensure your puppy is ready.
What if my dog doesn’t chase the lure?
Not all dogs immediately understand the game. Some need a few tries or encouragement from their owners. We provide a welcoming, no-pressure environment where your dog can learn at their own pace.
How long does a session last?
Sessions typically run for a few hours, and each dog gets multiple turns. The exact time may depend on the number of participants and weather conditions.
Can I run multiple dogs?
Currently, participation is limited to one dog per owner per event. This allows us to manage the event smoothly and ensure all dogs get a fair opportunity to run.
We understand that many owners have multiple dogs who would love to participate, and we plan to revisit this policy after we have had a few trials to assess how best to accommodate more dogs while maintaining a great experience for everyone.
Stay tuned for updates as we refine our event structure!
Can spectators come and watch?
Absolutely! We love having spectators cheer on the dogs. Bring friends and family to enjoy the excitement.
Is there food and drink available at events?
Some events may have food trucks or vendors, but it’s best to bring your own snacks and drinks.
Safety & Health – Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any health restrictions for participating dogs?
Dogs must be in good health to participate. If your dog has a heart condition, joint problems, or any other medical concerns, please consult your vet before signing up. Pregnant dogs and those recovering from recent injuries should not participate.
Do dogs run together or separately?
SprintDog™ – Dogs run individually to ensure safety and focus on the lure. However, in some cases, experienced dogs may be allowed to run together if they are well-matched and comfortable with each other.
Lure Coursing – For Traditional Lure Coursing: Dogs may run in small groups or individually, depending on the event setup. Group runs mimic real coursing situations and can add an extra layer of excitement for dogs that enjoy running with others. However, at some events, dogs will run separately to ensure a controlled and safe experience.
Is there a risk of injury?
As with any physical activity, there is always a small risk of injury. However, we take every precaution to ensure a safe experience, including properly maintained equipment and controlled runs.
What happens if my dog gets too tired or overwhelmed?
We monitor all dogs closely and encourage owners to rest their dogs between runs. If your dog seems overly tired or stressed, we recommend taking a break and keeping plenty of water on hand.