The AKC Fast CAT Top 20 is an elite list of the fastest dogs in the American Kennel Club’s Fast CAT competition, showcasing the speed and athleticism of different breeds. Fast CAT, short for “Coursing Ability Test,” is a timed 100-yard dash where dogs sprint down a straight line chasing a lure, with their speeds recorded in miles per hour (MPH). This list recognizes the top 20 fastest dogs from each breed, celebrating those with exceptional speed and drive.
In this article, we’ll cover what Fast CAT is, how the AKC determines the Top 20 list, tips for improving your dog’s speed, and how you can work toward a spot on the prestigious AKC Fast CAT Top 20.
What is AKC Fast CAT?
AKC Fast CAT is a fun, competitive dog sport where dogs race 100 yards in a straight line, chasing a lure while their time is recorded. The dog’s speed is measured and converted to miles per hour, then adjusted by a formula based on the dog’s height to determine their official score. This score contributes to rankings, which are compared across breeds to create the AKC Fast CAT Top 20 list.
How Speed is Calculated
- Distance: 100 yards
- Time: The time taken to complete the run is recorded in seconds.
- Speed Calculation: The AKC uses a formula that factors in a dog’s height at the withers to level the playing field between small and large breeds. Smaller dogs get a slight advantage to account for their shorter stride length.
The Fast CAT event is open to all AKC-recognized breeds and mixed breeds, allowing a diverse range of dogs to participate and compete for ranking.
What is the AKC Fast CAT Top 20?
The AKC Fast CAT Top 20 is an annual list that highlights the top 20 fastest dogs of each breed based on their recorded times in the Fast CAT events throughout the year. The list is updated regularly, showing which dogs in each breed are leading in terms of speed and ranking.
The AKC Fast CAT Top 20 list celebrates the athleticism and agility of dogs across all breeds, from Greyhounds and Whippets to small but speedy dogs like Pomeranians and Dachshunds. Rankings are based on the MPH speed that each dog achieves during a Fast CAT run, and the list is available on the AKC website for competitors and enthusiasts to view.
Key Features of the AKC Fast CAT Top 20
- Breed-Specific Rankings: Dogs are ranked within their breed, so each breed has its own Top 20 list, allowing for fair comparison among dogs with similar physical characteristics.
- Recognition: The Top 20 provides public recognition for the fastest dogs in the country, showcasing their athletic prowess.
Updated Annually: The list is refreshed each year based on the most recent results, ensuring it reflects the current fastest dogs.
How to Get Your Dog on the AKC Fast CAT Top 20 List
Getting your dog onto the AKC Fast CAT Top 20 requires a combination of training, conditioning, and participation in Fast CAT events. Here’s a guide to help you prepare:
1. Start with Basic Training
- Ensure your dog is well-trained in recall and motivated to chase a lure. Fast CAT events use a lure to stimulate your dog’s chase instinct, so it’s important that your dog understands the goal of the run.
- Use a favorite toy or treat as a motivator, and practice short sprints to help your dog understand what’s expected in a Fast CAT run.
2. Condition Your Dog Physically
- Fast CAT is an intense sprint, so your dog’s endurance, speed, and strength will benefit from conditioning. Incorporate regular exercise, such as running, swimming, or agility training, to keep them in peak shape.
- Avoid overtraining, and focus on a balanced routine that combines cardio, strength-building, and rest.
3. Participate in Fast CAT Events
- To qualify for the AKC Fast CAT Top 20 list, your dog must participate in official AKC Fast CAT events, where their runs are recorded and logged. The more events you attend, the better chance your dog has to improve their time.
- Check the AKC events calendar for Fast CAT events near you, and consider traveling to additional events if possible.
4. Set Goals for Speed Improvement
- Each run presents a chance for improvement. Track your dog’s speed over time to set realistic goals for improvement.
- Work on enhancing your dog’s launch and minimizing distractions to improve overall time.
5. Understand the Points System
- Each dog’s points in Fast CAT are calculated based on speed, and points contribute to earning Fast CAT titles. Dogs with consistently high speeds across events may rank higher, giving them a better chance to appear on the AKC Fast CAT Top 20 list.
Tips for Increasing Your Dog’s Speed in Fast CAT
- Focus on Short, High-Intensity Sprints
- Practice short sprints to build your dog’s burst speed. Use a lure or a toy to encourage them to sprint at full speed over shorter distances before progressing to longer runs.
- Improve Starting Speed
- Teach your dog to launch quickly from a stationary position, as Fast CAT events start with the dog standing behind the starting line. Quick reflexes and a strong start can make a big difference.
- Reduce Distractions
- Help your dog stay focused on the lure by practicing in environments with different distractions. Over time, your dog will become more focused on the task, resulting in better times.
- Optimize Weight and Fitness
- Keep your dog at an optimal weight to ensure maximum speed and agility. Excess weight can slow your dog down, so maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise is essential.
- Build Trust with the Lure
- Some dogs may take a few attempts to understand that the lure is something to chase. Practicing with the lure outside of Fast CAT events can help your dog become more comfortable and excited about chasing it.
Fast CAT Titles and Achievements
In addition to the Top 20 list, Fast CAT offers title recognition for dogs that achieve certain point milestones:
- BCAT (Beginner Fast CAT): Awarded for achieving 150 points.
- DCAT (Advanced Fast CAT): Awarded for achieving 500 points.
- FCAT (Fast CAT Champion): Awarded for achieving 1,000 points.
- FCAT# (Fast CAT Champion Multiplier): After 1,000 points, additional FCAT titles are awarded for each 500 points earned.
These titles add to the sense of accomplishment for both you and your dog as you work toward higher speeds and higher point totals.
Top 20 Fast CAT Breeds: Which Dogs Are the Fastest?
Certain breeds tend to excel in Fast CAT due to their natural speed and agility. Here are some of the most common breeds that often appear in the Fast CAT Top 20 list:
- Greyhounds: Known for their remarkable speed, Greyhounds are often the fastest in Fast CAT events, reaching speeds of over 40 MPH.
- Whippets: With their lightweight build and powerful strides, Whippets are consistently among the fastest breeds, regularly reaching speeds of 35+ MPH.
- Borzoi: These tall, sleek dogs are built for speed and endurance, often appearing in the Top 20.
- Salukis: Known as one of the oldest sighthound breeds, Salukis excel in Fast CAT with speeds close to those of Greyhounds and Whippets.
- Vizslas and Weimaraners: Both are athletic hunting breeds with a natural sprinting ability.
- Australian Shepherds and Border Collies: Known for their agility and stamina, these herding breeds often achieve impressive speeds.
Smaller breeds, like Dachshunds, Pomeranians, and Jack Russell Terriers, have their own Top 20 rankings within their breed categories, allowing them to compete and shine against dogs of similar size and ability.
Why the AKC Fast CAT Top 20 Matters
The AKC Fast CAT Top 20 list recognizes exceptional canine athletes across all breeds, celebrating the unique abilities and dedication of dogs and their handlers. Whether you’re a competitor or an observer, the Top 20 highlights the impressive diversity and athleticism of dogs in a simple, fun event that any dog can enjoy.
For many owners, seeing their dog on the Top 20 list is a point of pride, showing that their dog is among the fastest of their breed. This achievement not only reflects the dog’s physical abilities but also showcases the training, commitment, and bond between handler and dog.
The AKC Fast CAT Top 20 list is an exciting way to celebrate the fastest dogs in each breed, recognizing the skill and athleticism of competitors across the country. By participating in Fast CAT events, conditioning your dog, and focusing on speed improvement, you can work toward securing a spot on this prestigious list. Whether your dog is a natural sprinter or you’re looking to build their speed and endurance, Fast CAT offers a fun, rewarding way to showcase their abilities.
With the right training, plenty of practice, and dedication, your dog could be on the path to joining the AKC Fast CAT Top 20 and earning the recognition they deserve as one of the fastest dogs in their breed.
