SW19 SWIFTS FLYBALL

 Flyball is fun and allows both dogs (and handlers) to exercise their brain and body. We want all dogs to get as much enjoyment out of flyball as they can within training or in competition. We aim to provide a friendly atmosphere in which both dogs and handlers can reach their full potential. The social aspect of our club is as important to the dogs as the owners. Our flyball training follows the process and procedures that are required by the British Flyball Association (BFA) for entry into competitions and we will work towards achieving those standards. However, our primary aim is for us all to have fun, and  enjoy our time together, and that our dogs enjoy training and socialising  with their furry friends.  We do want our dogs to reach competition standard eventually, but our focus in our weekly training sessions is to involve all our dogs and handlers in developing fellowship, teamwork and supporting each other in the sport of flyball. We are Kennel Club and British Flyball Association registered.

Each row of hurdles has a start/finish line. Ideally as the previous dog is returning over this line the next dog should be crossing the line to fetch the next ball. Timing is essential. If you release your dog too late you risk losing precious seconds and the other team may win. However, if you misjudge the time and release your dog too early so he has crossed the start line before the previous dog is back you will get a fault. If you get a fault you will need to run your dog again after all four dogs have run and this costs the team time.

Levels of competition for novice dogs there are ‘starter’ competitions where the lanes of hurdles are enclosed in netting or surrounded by wooden wings. This stops the dogs ‘running out’ – many dogs prefer to get the ball and run back alongside the hurdles rather than over them as this is quicker! Starter hurdles are also lower with a minimum height of 7 inches.

Experienced dogs jump over hurdles of a maximum of 14 inches, but this depends on the height of the shortest dog in the team.  The jump height is set at 5″ below the shoulder height of the smallest dog, known as the ‘height dog’.