A 100-yard sprint
Your dog runs straight down a course chasing a lure.
Dog Sports
Fast CAT
Fast CAT is a simple, thrilling 100-yard dash where your dog chases a lure and earns points toward titles. Runs are quick, easy to understand, and welcoming for first-time competitors.
What is Fast CAT?
Fast CAT stands for Fast Coursing Ability Test. Dogs run one at a time down a 100-yard course, chasing a lure, and their time is recorded. That time is converted into points based on your dog’s height, and those points add up toward titles.
Timed, not judged
No routines, no patterns. It is all about the run.
Beginner friendly
Most dogs understand chasing a lure right away.
Runs are quick
A full day can include waiting, but the actual run is fast.
Points and titles
Times convert into points, and points add up to titles.
A fun event atmosphere
Fast CAT events are energetic, supportive, and easy to watch.
Who it’s for
Is Fast CAT Right for Your Dog?
Fast CAT is a great fit for dogs who enjoy chasing and running, and for handlers who want a sport with a simple learning curve. It can also be a fun option for teams who do other sports and want something that feels totally different.
Dogs who love to chase
If your dog locks in on toys, squirrels, or moving things, they may love Fast CAT.
Dogs new to dog sports
You do not need advanced training. Your main job is safe handling and a good release.
Handlers who want a simple first event
Fast CAT is easy to understand, even if you have never been to a trial before.
Getting started
How to start Fast CAT
You do not need months of training. You do need a plan for safety, handling, and making the experience fun.
Watch a few runs first
Seeing the flow makes the whole day feel easier.Bring a high value reward
Many dogs love the run, but you still want something that helps with enthusiasm and focus.Practice a calm hold and release
Your dog needs to wait at the start line and then go on cue.Work on recalls and leash handling
At the end, you want a dog that comes back to you quickly and safely.Warm up and cool down
A short warm-up walk and a cool-down walk are helpful for a sport that involves sprinting.Start with one or two runs
First events are about learning the environment. You can build up later.
Fast CAT points calculator
Use the calculator to estimate points based on your dog’s height and run time. It is a quick way to see how a run converts into points and what you might need for your next goal.
Fast CAT Speed & Points Calculator
Blog
Fast CAT articles
Fast CAT can be simple to run, but there is still a lot to learn about titles, points, event flow, and keeping your dog safe and confident. These posts cover the basics and the details that matter.
See our blog
Fast CATFast CAT Points Calculator
Fast CAT Points Calculator If you’re participating in Fast CAT, you’ll want a quick and accurate way to calculate your dog’s speed and Fast CAT title points. That’s exactly what the Fast CAT calculator is for. This simple tool makes it easy for dog…
Read more »March 12, 2025 No comments
Fast CATFast CAT vs. Lure Coursing: What’s the Difference?
Fast CAT vs. Lure Coursing: What’s the Difference? When it comes to high-speed dog sports, Fast CAT and Lure Coursing are two of the most thrilling activities for dogs that love to run. Both sports tap into a dog’s natural chase instinct, providing a fun…
Read more »February 8, 2025 No comments
Fast CATAKC Fast CAT Rules: What You Need to Know
AKC Fast CAT Rules: What You Need to Know Fast CAT, short for Fast Coursing Ability Test, is a popular dog sport sanctioned by the American Kennel Club (AKC). It involves a timed 100-yard dash where dogs chase a lure, showcasing their speed and…
Read more »February 7, 2025 No comments
Fast CATChasing AKC Fast CAT Titles
Chasing AKC Fast CAT Titles Fast CAT is more than just a sprint — it’s a structured AKC competition where dogs get to showcase their speed while earning prestigious Fast CAT titles. Whether your dog is an experienced racer or just starting out,…
Read more »February 4, 2025 No comments
Fast CATFast CAT Top 20: Where Speed Meets Spirit
Fast CAT Top 20: Where Speed Meets Spirit The Fast CAT Top 20 is the ultimate showcase of speed, agility, and joy in the world of dog sports. This prestigious list, curated by the American Kennel Club (AKC), honors the fastest dogs in Fast CAT (Coursing…
Read more »January 12, 2025 No comments
Fast CATAKC Fast CAT Top 20: Understanding the Rankings and How to Get Your Dog on the List
AKC Fast CAT Top 20: Understanding the Rankings and How to Get Your Dog on the List 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.…
Read more »December 1, 2024 No comments
Common questions
Common agility questions
Do I need a sighthound to do Fast CAT?
No. Many breeds and mixes participate. The sport is designed to be accessible to a wide range of dogs.
Do dogs run together?
Dogs typically run one at a time. The goal is a safe, straight sprint while chasing the lure.
What should I bring to a Fast CAT event?
A crate or rest setup, water, a leash, treats or a toy, poop bags, and weather gear for you and your dog.
How do points work?
Your dog’s time is converted into points based on height. Points add up toward titles.
Is Fast CAT safe for all dogs?
It depends on the dog. Because it is a sprint, conditioning, soundness, and safe footing matter. If you are unsure, ask your vet and start with a conservative approach.
How can I help my dog run straight?
Most dogs follow the lure naturally. For dogs that curve or lose focus, practice short chase games, keep your start line calm, and reward at the end.