Mixed breed dogs, just as purebreds, can compete in dog shows to earn titles in conformation, obedience, agility, flyball, and other canine events.
Known as mutt, mongrel, Heinz 57, or All American, the mixed breed is reported to be the most plentiful and most popular of pet dogs. Until recent decades, dog shows excluded any canine who was not purebred, but the mixed breed’s popularity brought about change. Organizations such as Mixed Breed Dog Clubs of America (MBDCA) now make it possible for the pup of unknown heritage to proudly strut its stuff just as the purebred.
Why Dog Sports?
Exercise gives the dog a job and a purpose which helps to burn off excessive energy and creates a sense of well being. Some mixed breeds in shelters end up there because of behavior problems resulting from high energy levels and boredom. Many dog owners report a disappearance of some problem behaviors after entering dog sports. The teamwork of these activities enhances the dog/human relationship. It’s also just plain fun!
Conformation
Yes, mixed breeds too can enter the show ring and earn a Championship in conformation. Organizations such as the AKC, judge purebreds against a breed standard in conformation competition but Mixed Breed Dog Clubs of America (MBCDA) uses a detailed standard and point system to stress obedience and companionship. Unlike AKC competition, an MBCDA conformation dog must earn an obedience degree before finishing a Championship.
Agility
Most agility clubs welcome mixed breeds. Any energetic dog who enjoys jumping and playing will love running the hurdles, tunnels, weave poles and teeter totter.
Canine Disc or Frisbee
Thousands of dogs of all kinds love to catch the flying disc. Some accomplished disc dogs learn fancy maneuvers. Disc dogs are popular attractions at fairs, festivals and entertainment events. All that’s required for this sport is a disc and a large, flat area.
Canine Musical Freestyle
What better way to enjoy your doggy than to dress up in cute matching costumes and go dancing to the doghouse rock? Basic obedience should be mastered first and then the handler needs only to choose music that suits the dog’s style and choreograph steps. Dance teams can shake, rattle, and roll over or give catchy names to their moves such as the Chihuahua Cha Cha, the Sheepdog Shuffle, or the Beagle Ballet.
Flyball
Dogs of all breeds and mixes love this competition sport. Teams of dogs race in relay fashion over jumps down a 51 foot long course to trigger the release of a ball from the box at the end, catch it, and return over the jumps. The first team of dogs to finish the course without error wins. Jump height varies by the height of the dogs.
Weight Pull
Weight pulling is good exercise for dogs if not overdone. Most organizations stress a rigid intolerance for any abusive action toward dogs. Training usually begins with a freight harness and an old tire.
Getting Started
These are a few of the activities in which mixed breeds can compete and earn titles. Others include tracking, herding, lure coursing, and earthdog trials, Almost any dog can excel in some kind of activity. Basic obedience is foundational to each of these sports. Those interested may find out the names of nearby organizations from local veterinary offices, shelters, kennel clubs, or an internet search. Club members are usually passionate about their sport and happy to help newbies learn the ropes.
