Ultimate Dog Performance

Mission Statement:

The UDP Inc Agility Program will allow dogs and handlers to demonstrate their skills at graduated levels of training and ability on various courses using a variety of obstacles.

Sanctioning of Events:

1. Events are open to all dogs 15 months and older. Events can be hosted by a club or member in good standing with UDP Inc.

2. UDP’s sanctioning form must be completed 60 days in advance and sent to the Corresponding Secretary.

3. Copies of UDP’s program, score sheets and trial result forms will be provided on a CD at a nominal fee.

4. A copy of the Premium list will be provided to the Corresponding Secretary at least three weeks prior to the event. It will include: start time for classes, awards to be given, classes offered, facility renting fees, trial secretary’s name, and run fee.

5. Premium should state:

Entry fee= $1.00 UDP Inc Recording Fee + Administration Costs + Jackpot Monies Back to Class

Example: $10.00 = $1.00 + $5.00 + $4.00

Organization and Recording:

TRIAL COMMITTEE AND OFFICIALS

The following officials shall preside at each UDP Agility Trial:

Judge: A minimum of one Judge per ring per day is required unless otherwise approved. The Judge shall be chosen from the approved UDP Judges list.

The Judge’s duties are as follows:

Designing courses prior to the trial

Course approval prior to the trial (initial courses are due to UDP’s course reviewer at least 5 weeks prior to the trial)

Inspect equipment - UDP specifications, safety

Finalizing each course prior to class judging

Instructs Scribe - signals, points

Instructs Timer - timing, course times, and maximum course times

Measuring Dogs or appointing a steward to measure

Measuring course and establishing a Standard Course Time

Briefing exhibitors about the course design prior to each class.

Completing any required UDP Judge’s reports. The reports shall be sent to UDP directly from the judge. Do not include with the host club results.

Judges must give their permission to the host club if the club wants to change their trial limits after a contract has been signed. Note: the judge cannot give permission to exceed UDP limits: 350 per day. The club cannot change their limits if less than 6 weeks to the trial, or if the premium has been posted.

ALL JUDGE’S DECISIONS ARE FINAL

Judges will not use video to determine a score; video may be used only to obtain a time if the timer did not get a time.

A judge may show their dogs IF the host club is allowing it. It is not allowed for a two ring trial (rings running simultaneously).

Judges cannot place on their own course designs, regardless of the dog they are running.

Judges cannot judge a person residing in their household or immediate family members (child, spouse, sibling, and parent).

Family members who are judged by a step-in judge do receive earned placements.

Judges cannot judge their own dog run by someone else.

Judges cannot judge a dog that is co-owned with another owner that resides outside of their residence.

If a judge’s dog is run and judged by other persons, the dog is not eligible for placements if earned.

All of the following positions are allowed to show dogs at a UDP trial if the handler wishes:

Trial Chairperson & Trial Secretary: The Chairperson is the official contact person for complaints or infractions. The Chairperson is also the back up for the Show Secretary in an emergency situation. Both are required to be current year members.

The Trial Secretary is responsible for answering prospective entrants’ questions, email/mailing premium lists to prospective entrants, email/mailing confirmation notices, preparation of the show catalog, ensuring the table help understands the scoring and computer procedures, preparation of the results catalogs for UDP and the host club.

A trial report form will be sent electronically to the Corresponding Secretary showing scores and places and listing all qualifying run for recording purposes. A $1.00 office fee per run will accompany the score sheets and be mailed to the Corresponding Secretary. This will be due 15 working days from the trial date

Course Builders: The course builders are responsible for the set up of the course as close as possible to the course design provided by the Judge. Changes are not to be made to the physical course design without authorization from the Judge. The course builders shall be available to assist the Judge in finalizing the course, and during measuring should the Judge need them.

Table Stewards: The table stewards (preferably 2 per ring) are responsible for recording class information for the results catalog. Information to be recorded in the results catalogs include: Top of page: Judge’s name, Course Yardage, Standard Course Time for each jump height grouping, marking any absent dog(s), dogs run information.

Scribe sheets are turned into the table stewards, who will convert the run time into seconds (if run is over one minute). They also calculate faults, points and determine the qualifying scores. The table stewards shall determine class placements for all jump heights.

Scribe: A scribe is required for each class. The scribe’s responsibility is to observe the Judge while each handler and dog

team is running, marking any faults or points the Judge signals during the performance. Under no circumstances will the scribe interpret the dog’s performance. The scribe shall write the time on the scribe sheet or NT if the judge gives the “NO TIME” signal. If the scribe has a question regarding faults or points during a run, he / she shall ask the Judge immediately following that dog’s run.

Timer: A timer is required for each class. The same timer shall time the entire class, including all jump heights, for at least that level, if at all possible. At minimum, the same timer should time an entire jump height. It is important that the timekeeper be consistent and accurate.

If there is a problem with the stopwatch or electronic timer, the timekeeper shall notify the Judge:

Classes that faults are called during: The call needs to be within 3 obstacles of the dogs start, or immediately after the run.

Point classes: The call needs to be immediately when discovered – DO NOT stop the time on a point class unless directed to by the judge.

The timekeeper is also responsible for sounding the whistle when required in the games, and to signify a dog exceeding maximum course time. Every dog receives a time unless the owner or judge excuses the dog or the dog goes over the maximum course time, or the judge signifies NO TIME.

Gate Steward: A gate steward is required for each ring, when a class is in session. He/she has no responsibility to find dogs.

He/she is responsible to keep the ring running quickly and smoothly, preferably having at least 3-5 dogs ready at all times.

The gate steward has the authority to change the order of the class, within the jump height, at ringside. This will help keep the trial moving if a dog is late to the ring, or has a ring conflict - another dog may show first. Late dogs may be moved to the end of the class. The gate steward must communicate this change to the scribe, who will verify the number on the scribe sheet. The gate steward will also announce a jump height change, and the last dog in the class. Dogs MAY NOT be moved by handler’s choice. Dogs must run in order unless there is a conflict.

Ring Stewards: Ring Stewards are required for the following duties, and may do more than one duties below:

· change jump heights & reset knocked bars

· straighten tunnels & chute fabric

· leash runner and scribe sheet runner

Eligibility:

1. The program will be open to all dogs 15 months of age and older, depending on each individual level.

2. Bitches in heat may not participate.

3. Dogs must be sound and in good health. The course director will determine if the dog is unfit to participate. Examples – lameness, injury, illness, advanced pregnancy.

4. Owners of participating dogs must be members of UDP Inc. A UDP Inc tracking number can be obtained from the Corresponding Secretary, so the Titles and Life Time Earnings can be earned and recorded.

Levels of Agility Titles:

UAD-I – Ultimate Agility Dog Introductory – The dog is capable of the following: Running a simple course with the handler exhibiting basic handling skills. These dogs have not earned a qualifying run/ or title in any agility venue.

UAD-N – Ultimate Agility Dog Novice – The dog is capable of the following: Completing at least 6 Weave Poles, See-saw, and running more complicated courses and showing some obstacle discrimination. The dog will have earned qualifying runs or titles in a beginning or novice level in another agility venue.

UAD-O – Ultimate Agility Dog Open – The dog is capable of the following: Completing 12 Weave Poles, handling at a distance from the handler, showing obstacle discrimination, and following increasingly more difficult and longer courses. The dogs should be working on intermediate titles in other agility venues.

UAD-A – Ultimate Agility Dog Advanced– The dog is capable of the following: Competently handing any obstacle sequence, using obstacle discrimination, working at a distance from the handler, and handling more complex weave entrances.

The dog will be working towards its championship title or have earned a championship title in another venue.

UAD-CH – Ultimate Agility Dog Champion– The dog is capable of all skills listed for the UAD-A. Once a Championship has been earned, a dog can continue to compete at the championship level for life time earnings and National ranking. The dog must have earned an advanced title with UDP Inc. to run on this level.

Run Order:

1. Run order will be determined by random drawing.

2. Drawn positions will not be altered after the draw with the following exception: Back to back runs will be avoided, by providing at least one handler between the drawn back to back runs.

Run Start Time To Finish Time:

1. The clock will start when the handler releases his dog or the dog crosses an electronic timer.

2. Time to be used – to the 1/10,000 of the second: i.e. 23:45:27

MEASURING AND CHECK IN AT A TRIAL

Measuring and check-in will begin at least 15-45 minutes prior to the start of the first class. A general briefing (if necessary) must precede the first class briefing. It is recommended that all entered dogs be required to check in and be measured before the start of the first class. Host clubs may, at their option, permit check-in and measuring after the first class has started. The check-in and measuring procedure and schedule must be included in both the premium and confirmation letter. In the event that a host club decides to permit check-in and measuring after the first class has started, neither the host club nor the judge has any responsibility to inform such an exhibitor of the content of the general briefing; and the exhibitor will be subject to any terms or conditions set forth during the general briefing.

MEASURING A DOG

The dog may be measured by using wickets or a measuring device, on a flat surface while being measured. The measurement is a perpendicular line from the top of the dog’s withers (top point of shoulder bones) to the ground with the dog standing naturally, not leaning forward or back. The head must be in a natural position, not held up by the leash.

A dog may need to move to a higher jump height.

If a dog measures for a lower jump height, they may move down in height for that trial if the club is allowing height move downs. This may also enable the dog to move to a different height category.

If the club is not allowing height move downs, the dog may enter the next lower height at the next trial.

Only a judge may measure a dog.

A judge has the right to revoke a permanent card for an individual trial, and measure that dog. If the dog’s jump height will change for that trial, a report must be filed with UDP immediately following the trial, to be reviewed upon receipt at UDP offices. The Judge's decision is final for that trial.

HEIGHT CARDS

If a dog does not have an H-card, they must be measured for a height card (H-card) regardless of the entered jump height.

An H-card is a dog’s ID card that has a jump height number on it. If the dog is under 2 years old as of its last measurement, a sentence will be on the bottom of the card with the date the dog must be re-measured, at the next trial entered, after this date.

Upon check-in at an agility trial, the dog’s permanent height card shall be shown. If the owner cannot show the card, the dog must be measured (unless the club is using the UDP trial secretary program with a record of the dog’s H-card), or your dog may need to move to a higher jump height for that trial.

Your dog must be measured by an approved judge.

Measurements within 1/2" of a jump height: A second measurement is required by another judge, which may or may not be at the same trial. If the two measurements are on either side of a jump height, a third “tiebreaker” measurement is required, may or may not be at the same show.

If a dog is under 2 years old when first measured, the dog then must have at least one measurement after 2 years of age. A height card, with the re-measure date, will be issued.

Owners may enter their dogs in a higher jump height than the height card shows the minimum jump height that the dog is allowed to enter in regular classes. See the Jump Height table for all measurements and height category jump heights.

UDP will issue permanent cards upon receipt of the measuring sheet with measurements and signatures from the host club holding the trial. Exhibitors usually receive cards within a month after the trial their dog(s) was measured at, unless the dog requires another measurement.

Replacement cards may be obtained for a fee of $5.00 per card from UDP.

ID cards not received by the member must be reported to UDP within three months of the trial the dog was measured at. If UDP is notified after three months, the replacement card fee will be in effect.

UDP encourages handlers to have their dog re-measured later in their life. If your dog has been a borderline measurement for a jump height, he/she could measure down to the next jump height. This could mean a lower competitive, veterans, or choice height.

Dogs that are re-measured for a lower height card must obtain two judge’s signatures. The judge(s) must sign for that individual dog. Both signatures may or may not be at the same trial. Only one signature is required for that trial for the dog to jump at the lower height.

DOG JUMP HEIGHTS

Dog’s Measurement	Regular	Veterans & Challenger
8” and under	4”	4”
Over 8” and up to 12”	8”	4”
Over 12” and up to 16”	12”	8”
Over 16” and up to 20”	16”	12”
Over 20” and up to 24”	20”	16”
Over 24”	24”	20”

You can enter only 1 jump height category for each trial.

Veteran dogs are 6 years and older on the day of the trial.

AGILITY TRIAL SITE

The Agility Trial ring area should measure at least 100 x 100 or 10,000 sq feet square feet. If the ring area will be less than this, size and description must be sent with the Trial Application, and with approval, sent to the Judge(s). Minimum width is 60 ft.

The ring area should be of a non-slip surface - grass or groomed dirt is preferred, which will provide a safe footing for dogs and handlers. The ring should be enclosed by fence, gating, or ring flags to separate the course from spectators. If the trial is indoors on cement, the ring must be appropriately matted, with jump mats for each jump landing, and the down side of the contacts.

A warm-up area must be provided for each ring. A jump must be available, and a set of 6 weaves is optional.

These areas are limited to exhibiting dogs.

Area(s) must be provided for crating and exercising dogs. In the spirit of responsible dog ownership and sportsmanship, please pick up after your dogs! As exhibitors, we want to be able to continue using hotels and show sites.

When possible, a spectator area should be available, preferably away from the crating area. Public spectators may need to be made aware of the ring boundary.

AGILITY TRIAL REGULATIONS

There will be a maximum of 5 runs per day for any one dog. The host club/member shall always try to adhere to the published class order and jump height. Only in unforeseen or extreme circumstances may the order be changed, with the Judge and host club in agreement.

Dogs in the ring, leashes, exiting the ring

Dogs shall run without anything attached to its body. This is for the safety of the dog. This includes no: collars, stitches, wraps or any other item. The only exception is a small barrette or rubber band to keep hair out of a dog’s eyes.

Leashes cannot have anything (other than name/license tags) attached to them when used in the ring.

Dogs may enter the ring on a collar, quick release harness or head halti/gentle leader. Prong collars are not allowed on the trial site.

Handlers may not carry their leash with them on the course – if done so, an NT will result. Exception: Challenger handlers that have a mobility problem in picking up the leash at the finish may put their leash in their pocket – the leash must be out of sight.

Dogs must be under the handler’s control when leaving the ring or the judge may enter the run as No Time - NT.

Training a dog in the ring during a run

Training is not allowed in the ring at a UDP agility trial. First offense will result in an excusal from the run.

Further offenses will result in additional excusals for the day/weekend per the judge’s discretion. This is for the safety of the dog.

The following items are not considered training in the ring (Dog grabbing its leash at the end of a run -if the run has not yet ended, the dog would receive an NT)

Asking the dog once for a sit or down on the table in the point games (asking more than once will be a delay of finish, 5 faults/points)

The following items are considered training in the ring:

Violating the 4 paw safety rule (directing the dog back onto the contact)

Start line stay – leaving the dog and going back again to reposition the dog after the handler passes the plane of the first obstacle (before the handler leaves the dog, repositioning or repeated commands can be a delay of start)

Putting the dog back on the table in the point games

While running on course

The handler will direct the dog through the course without a collar or lead.

Food, toys, training devices (includes fanny packs and leash attachments) are not allowed within 10’ feet of the ring.

Clickers, training whistles and squeaky toys are not to be used within distraction distance of the ring.

The handler may not carry anything that could aid the dog in its performance. Exclusion: Challenger Handlers using a cane, scooter, wheelchair, etc., to enable their progression around the course.

The dog cannot have anything attached to its body during the run - exception: small plain clips or rubber bands to keep the hair out of a dog’s eyes for long haired dogs.

The handler may use any verbal or visual commands to direct the dog through the course. The Judge may assess a 5 fault penalty to elimination for any command that is not given in a sportsmanlike manner. Faults can be; but are not limited to foul or abusive language, display of anger, extreme frustration or excessive harshness. If the fault is deemed severe enough, the Judge has the right to excuse the exhibitor from the ring and / or the remainder of the trial. If excused from the trial, a report would be filed with UDP.

Obstacles:

Only the obstacles listed below and meeting the specifications to these regulations may be used at UDP sanctioned events.

All of the courses include obstacle minimums, however, the Judge has full authority to remove or substitute an obstacle if it does not meet UDP specifications, is deemed unsafe or due to inclement weather conditions. The Judge shall try to substitute a similar obstacle or may substitute more than one obstacle to meet distance requirements.

OBSTACLE PERFORMANCE

Contact Obstacles

The 4-Paw Safety Rule applies to all contact obstacles. If the dog places all four paws on a contact obstacle then leaves the obstacle prior to completion, the dog may not attempt the obstacle again – as a result of the handler’s cue. If the dog does attempt the contact obstacle again, by handler cue, the team must be excused from that run. If the dog does attempt the contact obstacle again without handler cue, the dog will not qualify, NQ, and the team may continue their run. This rule pertains to Standard, Slots, Can You Handle It and Cross Country classes.

Back-to-back contact performances in the point games MUST be performed safely or points will not be awarded for the second performance. The Judge’s decision is final.

1. A-Frame

The dog must touch the descending contact area - with at least one paw. If a contact area is missed, a failure to perform fault is assessed. If the dog leaves the obstacle before beginning its descent, a failure to perform will be assessed. If the dog ascends the incorrect ramp in a Standard, Slots, Can You Handle It and Cross Country classes.

, an off course will be assessed.

2. Dog Walk

3. See-Saw

The dog must touch both contact areas - ascending and descending - with at least one paw. If a contact area is missed, a failure to perform fault is assessed. The dog must touch the see-saw before the pivot point with at least one paw, and must touch the contact area on the descent with at least one paw. If the dog leaves the obstacle before reaching the pivot, or if the dog leaves the plank after the pivot, and before the descent, a failure to perform will be assessed. The plank must touch the ground while the dog has at least one paw in contact with the obstacle, otherwise a fly-off (failure to perform) shall be assessed.

If the dog has completed the see-saw, turns immediately and performs the see -saw on the wrong side (the see-saw has not begun its return tip), an off course or a No Time excusal will be assessed – the Judge’s decision is final.

4. Chute

The dog must pass through the rigid opening to the fabric “chute”, burrowing through to the end. If the wind opens the end of the chute fabric, and the dog performs the chute backwards, an off course will be assessed.

5. Tunnel

The dog must perform the tunnel as directed by the Judge’s course design. If the dog performs the tunnel in the wrong direction, an off course will be assessed.

6. Pause Table

The table is used only as a time stopping method in the appropriate games. The table height shall be 4” or 8" for 4", 8" & 12" jump heights and 16" for 16", 20" & 24" jump heights. The dog need only place one foot on the table to stop the clock.

7. Tire

The dog must jump through the tire as directed by the Judge. If the dog jumps the tire in the wrong direction, an off course will be assessed. If the dog performs the tire in an unsafe manner, a major fault is called.

8. Broad Jump

The dog must jump the broad jump as directed by the Judge. If the dog places a paw on a plank, 5 faults will be assessed. Ticking the jump is not a fault. An off course will be assessed if the dog jumps between the corner marker poles, walks across the jump, or jumps in the wrong direction.

9. Jumps - bar, panel, winged, wingless; double, triple or Spread Jump

The dog must jump over the jump as directed by the Judge. The dog must pass between the uprights or wings, without displacing the top bar or panel. If the top bar or panel is displaced, a 5-point fault is assessed (bar down). If the dog jumps the obstacle in the wrong direction, an off course will be assessed. All decisions made by the Judge are final.

Bars knocked in a faulted class when used multiple times are only judged the first time the bar is knocked. If a dog knocks the second bar on the next performance, another knocked bar would apply. Bars are not replaced during a run, thus, in a point class, a knocked jump is not worth points for multiple performances.

10. Weave Poles

The dog must weave in and out through a line of poles as directed by the Judge. For judging to begin, the dog must enter with the first pole at its left shoulder. The dog would then continue the performance by bending to the right to go past the second pole at its right shoulder, then bending to the left to go past the third pole at its left shoulder, continuing until the obstacle is complete. If the course contains two sets of weaves to make up the required total, each set of weaves is scored independently. Back weaving shall be faulted as a 5 fault off course, only if the dog actually enters between any two poles, as if weaving, and completes at least three poles in a weaving rhythm.

Standard Class Judging Weaves

Introductory: No weaves.

Novice: 6 weave poles on a course. Weaves are not faulted for any reason other than failure to perform (15 faults) in the faulted classes. Weaves only need to be completed.

Open: 6-12 weave poles on a course. Restarts and/or mid-point corrections are faulted as a 5 fault other fault.

Only one 5-fault penalty shall be assessed per set of weaves, regardless of the number of restarts or mid-point corrections.

Weaves can be one continuous set, and are faulted as one obstacle. If weaves are split into two sets, they are faulted separately

Advanced: 12- 18 weave poles on a course. Restarts and/or mid-point corrections are faulted as a 5 fault other fault. Only one 5-fault penalty shall be assessed per set of weaves, regardless of the number of restarts or mid-point corrections. Weaves can be one continuous set of 12 and one set of 6. Continuous weaves are faulted as one obstacle. If weaves are split into two sets, they are faulted separately

Championship Level: 18- 24 weave poles on a course. Restarts and/or mid-point corrections are faulted as a 5 fault other fault.

Only one 5-fault penalty shall be assessed per set of weaves, regardless of the number of restarts or mid-point corrections.

One set of Weaves must be a continuous set of 12. Continuous weaves are faulted as one obstacle.

OBSTACLE SPECIFICATIONS

All obstacles must be constructed with the dog’s safety in mind. All sizes of dogs must be able to perform all obstacles without injury. All equipment must be maintained on a regular basis. When PVC is used in the construction of obstacles, schedule 20 or 40 may be used.

Magnetic breakaway tire is allowed for use in UDP trials. At this time, the only approved design is from

www.dog-equipment.com, BC Canada. Any other design must be approved by UDP prior to trial use.

Contact-A-Coat rubber granules are allowed on all contact equipment. (www.contactacoat.com)

A-Frame with rubber granules: slats are only required above the contact, see A-Frame specifications below for slat size.

Dog Walk and See-saw with rubber granules: slats are optional, if used, are only required above the contact zones, and must meet the specifications listed below, see obstacle specifications for slat size.

Tunnel

The Tunnel consists of a flexible tube that can be curved into shapes. The tunnel openings are round with a maximum diameter of 24", with an allowance of 2". The length may be 10' to 20' long when extended. The tunnel must be able to be secured safely to minimize a dog’s motion from moving the tunnel. Black tunnels are not permitted and very dark interiors are discouraged (traditional blue and red are allowed).

Chute

The Chute has two parts. The first part is a rigid tunnel, with a circular opening, with a diameter of 24", with an allowance of 1". It may be 24" to 36" in length. The bottom of the rigid tunnel must be a non-skid surface. The rigid tunnel must be able to be secured or weighted if a dog’s motion may move it.

The Chute fabric attaches to the rigid tunnel. The chute should be a durable fabric, though lightweight. The ideal fabric would be opaque, non-static, and water-resistant Packcloth or Nylon and is strongly recommended. The chute shall be sewn so that there is an opening at either end. The exit opening shall flare from the rigid tunnel to a circumference of 96", with an allowance of 2".

The total length of the chute fabric should be between 6' to 8' for a short chute (the circumference will be less than 96"), and 12' to 15' feet for a long chute.

Pause Table

The Pause Table will be a square measuring 36". A paint and perlite (see contacts), sand mixture, or outdoor carpeting are regulation surfaces. The table must not have any sideways movement when a dog jumps onto it. The table must be able to adjust to 4” or 8" and 16" heights.

Weave Poles

The weave pole base shall be no more than 1" in height, and 4" in width. The base, the bottom of the poles, and pole fasteners should be as smooth as possible so that no dog is injured. Poles should flex moderately at the base when the dog is weaving. Bands of colored tape, along the length of the pole, are recommended for better visibility.

Base floor braces – ideally, the right brace should extend from the second pole, so the dog does not enter the weaves on a base brace, and each subsequent base brace is alternating from the side opposite from where the dog is weaving.

Pole Width 1" PVC

Pole Height 36" to 48"

Distance between Poles on Base 22" to 24" from Center to Center with no more than a 1” variance UDP has a preference for a distance of 24”.

Contact Obstacles

The contact obstacle surfaces shall be made from wood or fiberglass. The surfaces must be maintained on a regular basis for the safety and foot traction of the dogs. Recommended traction surface is texture additive for paint (perlite). Known brand names:

Skidex, Bondex, Homax. Do not use “fine”. Recommended consistency of paint and additive is thick oatmeal.

Apply with deep napped paint roller, do not over roll. Any high points can be removed by running hand over them. Sand is an acceptable alternative. A paint mixture that includes fine sand provides better traction than coarse sand. The surfaces should not be so rough that footpads are injured.

The obstacles must be painted in a contrasting color to the contact zones - which are a bright color (e.g.: yellow).

Recommended colors include: blue, purple, or red. Paint MUST be flat only! Do not use a gloss or semi-gloss of any kind.

Contact-A-Coat rubber granules are allowed on all contact equipment. (www.contactacoat.com)

A-Frame with rubber granules: slats are only required above the contact zones, and must meet the specifications listed below.

Dog Walk and See-saw with rubber granules: slats are optional, if used, are only required above the contact zones, and must meet the specifications listed below.

The See-saw should have an extension from the base, on each side of the plank, to alert the dog to the pivot point.

Slats are required on the A-Frame and are strongly recommended on the Dog Walk. The slats are placed across the width of the board, spaced at 12" intervals. The allowed slat size is 1 / 4" to 1 / 2" in height, and 1" to 1 ½ " in width.

Recommended size is 3/8" in height, 1 ½ " in width. No slat may be within 4" of the top of the contact zone. Sharp edges must be smoothed down.

Adequate support must be provided for the A-Frame and the Dog Walk so there is minimal to no movement when the dog is ascending or descending. The See-saw base should be wide enough to support the largest of dogs safely.

The following length measurements have an allowance of 1" to 2"; height measurements have an allowance of up to 2” lower

Description	A-Frame	Dog Walk	See-saw
Plank Width	3’ to 4’	12”	12”
Contact Zone	42”	42”	42”
Plank Length	8’	8’	12’
Apex Height	4’ 8”	36”	24”
Plank Length	9’	12’	NA
Apex Height	5’ 3”	48”	NA

Bar Jumps

The Bar Jumps may consist of one or two bars in the same vertical plane. Bar jumps must be flanked by upright side standards, with graduated “cups” to support the bars. Jump heights are measured from the top of the bar to the ground. The “cups” must accommodate all jump heights. The second bar of a vertical jump should be placed at approximately one half of the jump height. On the 4” & 8" jump heights, it may be placed on the ground.

The jump bars should be 1" diameter PVC, or square, lightweight wood - 1" to 2" square. The bars should be between 4' to 5' long, and must be striped with contrasting color(s) for visibility.

The uprights should have a minimum inside height of 32", and width of 1" (1.5" or more is recommended). Jump standards can be made out of many different materials; however, safety rules must be adhered to - for the dog and handler alike. Jump standards are recommended to be no more than 30" in overall width, with a maximum of 48". No metal jump cups are allowed.

The Judge shall have complete authorization to deny the use of any jump that he/she deems unsafe.

Tire

The Tire Jump consists of a frame to hold a suspended “tire”. The tire must have an opening of 24” (plus or minus 1”) and be of 1 piece construction. The wall of the tire must be 4" thick. The tire MUST be wrapped for the safety of the dog.

There must be, at minimum, four equally spaced 2” or wider bands of white tape on the tire to ensure its visibility to the dog.

There must be at least two contrasting colors on the tire, one of which will be white.

The frame should be made from PVC, steel/aluminum or Wood, with a wide base so that it will not topple onto a dog.

If aluminum, the tire frame base must be heavy enough not to allow the tire to topple over if a dog hits the tire itself. The tire must be suspended from the frame, at the four corners, two at the top and two at the bottom, or top / bottom (optional) / both sides. The frame top and sides should be square to the tire. There should be at least 8" clearance between the tire and the frame. The frame must be tall enough to accommodate all jump heights, with the tire resting on the ground for the 4” jump height. The jump height is measured from the inside bottom of the tire to the ground.

If bungee cords are used to suspend the tire, covering the hook ends is strongly recommended for safety. A short piece of garden hose can be quickly slipped up and down. Bungee cord hooks can be replaced by a closed eyehook, with an opposite clip end. Make sure to use a virtually unbreakable “thread” to sew the bungee to the eyehook.

Panel Jump

The Panel Jump consists of up to six planks, resembling a solid wall. The planks shall be 4' to 5' in length, 3" to 4"wide, and up to 1" thick. The planks must be displaceable.

Broad Jump

The Broad Jump consists of 1 - 5 planks, 6" - 8" in width, 4' - 5' in length. Each board’s height is graduated and can

be slanted. If slanted, the next board should be 1/2" taller than the previous. Each board should have the front edge measuring 1/2" lower than the back.

The Broad Jump may be used only in one direction (upward slant).

The Broad Jump must be made easily visible to the dog - freestanding, corner marker flags are recommended.

Flags should be at least 1" in width, and 36" in height.

See the following for jump widths:

Jump Height	Jump Width	Number of boards		Maximum Height
Jump Height	Jump Width	8” 6”		Maximum Height
4”	8”	1	1	6”
8”	16”	2	2	6”
12”	24”	3	4	6”
16”	32”	3	4	6”
20”	40”	4	5	8”
24”	46”	4	5	8”

Double Jump

The Double Jump is ascending. The Double Jump consists of two sets of parallel bars, the two highest bars being set at ascending order for the jump height (see table below). The bars must be spaced one half of the jump height, center to center (see table below). A second set of bars should form an “X” under the highest height bar. For the 4” height, the “X” will

be one bar that rests on the ground as a mini “broad” jump.

If a second double is needed but not available, the two highest bar measurements on the triple can be used as an ascending double.

Jump Height	First Bar	Second Bar	Bar Spacing
4”	Ground	4”	2”
8”	4”	8”	4”
12”	8”	12”	6”
16”	12”	16”	8”
20”	16”	20”	10”
24”	20”	24”	12”

Triple Spread Jump

The Triple Spread Jump consists of three ascending bars.
Jump Height	Bar Heights	Bar Spacing
4”	Ground Ground 4”	2”
8”	4” 6 8”	4”
12”	6” 9” 12”	6”
16”	8” 12” 16”	8”
20”	10” 15” 20”	10”
24”	12” 18” 24”	12”

Table

Jump Height – no dog will jump lower than 4”

Measurement	Competitive	Veterans	Challenger
8” and under	4”	4”	4”
Over 8” up to 12”	8”	4”	4”
Over 12” up to 16”	12”	8”	8”
Over 16” up to 20”	16”	12”	12”
Over 20” up to 24”	20”	16”	16”
Over 24”	24”	20”	20”

CLASS LEVEL ENTRIES WHEN FIRST ENTERING A UDP AGILITY SHOW

Once a handler has chosen a level to begin with in UDP, the dog must be entered in the same level for all classes at the first show they are entered in.

Once a dog has run in a given level at its first UDP agility trial, the dog cannot move down to a lower level. A dog CANNOT move up to the next level for a class until the requirements for that respective class have been met in that level.

Due to a dog meeting the requirements for a respective class, he/she may be trialing in more than one level for different classes. A dog receives the title at each level ONLY after meeting the requirements for all classes at that level.

INTRODUCTORY – recommended for beginning dogs OR handlers, who have not shown at an agility trial, or who may want additional ring experience at an easier level. The course has fewer obstacles, and does not include the See-saw or Weaves in Standard. If included in the games where allowed, the See-saw and Weaves must be optional.

Any dog or handler may begin showing in UDP in Level 1 regardless of their experience.

NOVICE – recommended for dogs who may have earned the first title in another agility organization, or for a handler who has previously titled another dog in agility. Level 2 will include the See-saw and 6 weaves in Standard.

Any dog OR handler may begin showing in UDP in Level 2 regardless of their experience.

OPEN - recommended for dogs who may have earned at least the first title or higher in one or more other agility organizations.

ADVANCED- Recommended for dogs who have achieved a MACH, ATCH or C-ATCH.

CHAMPIONSHIP-Dogs must trial on the ADVANCED Level with UDP and earn the title at the Advanced Level, before moving up to this level. The dog must have achieved the Advanced Title in Standard, Jumpers and Slots to move to the Championship Level.

JUDGE’S SIGNALS

Bar Down	5 faults	One hand open
Off Course	5 faults	One hand closed
Other faults	5 faults	Two hands open
Major Fault	15 faults	Arms crossing in motion at waist or above head
No Time	No Time listed for dog	Hands forming a “T”, as in a time out motion in sporting events

The Judge must brief each scribe (if the scribe changes) before the class as to his/her signals.

Classes with Faults - A Qualifying score is earned if the dog’s score is within the “Faults Allowed” limits, and does not exceed the faults allowed total for their entered level.

INTRODUCTORY and NOVICE: may not exceed 10 faults total within the allowable faults for the level and class.

OPEN: may not exceed 5 faults total within the allowable faults for the class.

ADVANCED and CHAMPIONSHIP: clean runs only, no faults are allowed.

Ultimate Top Dog Nationals Top 15 classes: clean runs only, no faults are allowed.

If a team has a No Time (NT), that team is ineligible to receive placement monies.

FAULTED CLASSES FAULTS, ELIMINATIONS AND EXCUSALS

Faults will be assessed as follows:	See Obstacle Performance for other possible Faults assessed or the following section – UDP Classes. Maximum of 5 Faults per jump. · Bar Down – 5 Faults · Off Course – 5 Faults · Broad jump stepped on (Judge’s decision) – 5 Faults · Other Faults - 5 Faults · Failure to Perform (Major fault) -15 Faults
15 Faults	Missed contact on A-Frame, Dog Walk or See-saw
15 Faults	Fly-off of See-saw (board did not touch the ground before dog has left the board)
15 Faults	Failure to perform any obstacle
15 Faults	Unsafe performance of any obstacle
15 Faults	Dog knocks over the tire frame
5 Faults or 5 Points off score	Handler intentionally blocking the Judge’s view, or blocking the dog - forcing it to a certain path with or without direction to the correct obstacle, handler touches an obstacle on course (including stepping over end of contact or chute, jumping jumps or ducking under an obstacle, stepping through weaves)-
5 Faults or 5 Points off score	Excessive delay at start or finish line
5 Faults or 5 Points off score to Excusal of that run or from the trial (file report with UDP)	Excessive force at start line, Poor Sportsmanship, excessive handling, excessive force when leaving the ring, outside ring assistance, cursing in the ring
5 Faults or 5 Points off score to Excusal of that run or from the trial (file report with UDP)	Sign of aggression to Judge, other dog, ringside spectators or handler (including nipping / biting on course) – can be inside or outside of the ring any time during the event. The Host Club or Judge can make the determination - 15 Faults or 15 Points off score to Excusal of that run (No Time)
No Time (but allowed to run) to Excusal from run (EXC)	Deliberately moving any obstacle that is on the course once the Judge has set it, or has approved the course as built(this also includes during the exhibitor’s walk through)
No Time (Excusal from run)	Food, toys or training devices on course- The Judge’s decision is final
No Time (Excusal from run)	Leaves the ring, dog out of control, dog ceases to work, Handler intentionally touches dog or obstacle
No Time	- Dog fouling anywhere within the ring before, during or after completion of a run

POINT CLASSES

A Qualifying score is earned if the dog completes the requirements of the respective point game for their entered level and height category.

An Off Course is taking an obstacle out of sequence (one paw touching obstacle or over a jump). Only one off course is called per incident, regardless of how many out of sequence obstacles are taken. Each off course is five faults. See obstacle performance for other possible off course faults.

Time faults: one full second equals one fault. Fractions are dropped for scoring the dog’s run. The timekeeper shall report time in 1/10,000th of a second for placements (EX: 35.09.67).

If the weather or surface conditions warrant, up to 10 seconds may be added to the Course Time, for all jump heights in all classes. Conditions include: excessive rain, mud, heat, humidity, snow, poor footing, long grass, etc.

This is for the safety of the dogs and handlers. The Judge has full authority.

Class Types:

Standard (All Levels -Faulted)

Games: Jumpers (All Level-Faulted), Slots (All Levels-Points)

Ultimate Top Dog: Can You Handle It – Precision (Advanced-Points), Stadium Jumping-Speed (Advanced-Faulted), Cross Country-Endurance (Advanced-Faulted).

The Ultimate Top Dog Events will be used for Top 15 rankings at the end of the year.

Description of classes and regulations:

STANDARD: A full course with obstacles in a numbered sequence. All obstacles must be performed successfully within the Fault Limits for each Level.

Obstacles on Course	Minimum	Maximum
Introductory	10	14
Novice	12	16
Open	14	18
Advanced	16	20
Championship	18	22

Obstacle requirements	Introductory	Novice	Open		Advanced		Championship
Dog Walk	1	1	1		1		1
A-Frame	1	1	1		1		1
See-Saw	0	1	1		1		1
Tunnel	1-3	1-3	1-3		1-3		1-3
Chute	1	1	1		1		1
Weave Poles 6	0	1	1	2	1	2-3	1-2	0
Weave Poles 12			0	0	1	0	1	2
Bar Jumps (Winged Wingless)	3-12	3-12	3-12		3-12		3-12
Broad Jump	0	0-1	1		1		1
Panel Jump	0	0-1	0-2		0-2		0-2
Double Jump	0	0	1		1-2		1-2
Triple Jump	0	0	0-1		1-2		1-2
Tire Jump	1	1	1-2		1-2		1-2

COURSE TIME

Standard Course Time	Yards per Second
Introductory	1.75 – 2.25
Novice	2.00– 2.50
Open	2.25 – 2.75
Advanced	2.50 – 3.00
Championship	2.50 – 3.00

The Judge will set the maximum course time and is responsible for instructing the timer accordingly. The course yardage is determined by measuring for 20” dogs.

Modifications: Course yardage less than 150 yards 5 seconds will be added to the time for 4”. 8” and 12” dogs.

Course yardage 150 yards and more 10 seconds will be added to the time for 4”. 8” and 12” dogs.

JUMPERS: A course consisting of jumps, tunnel and chutes.

Obstacles on Course	Minimum	Maximum
Introductory	10	14
Novice	12	16
Open	14	18
Advanced	16	20
Championship	18	22

Obstacle Requirements	Introductory	Novice	Open	Advanced	Championship
Tunnel	1-2	1-3	1-3	1-4	1-4
Chute	1	1	1	1-2	1-2
Bar Jumps (Winged or Wingless)	4-6	4-8	4-10	4-12	4-12
Double Jump	0	1	1	1-2	1-2
Triple Jump	0	0	0-1	1-2	1-2
Tire Jump	1	1	1	1-2	1-2
Panel Jump	0	0-1	0-2	0-2	0-2
Broad Jump	0	0	0-1	1	1

Timing - Yards per second. The course shall be measured for 20" dogs, adding 5 seconds for 8" & 12" jump heights if less than 150 yards, adding 10 seconds if over 150 yards.

Introductory Novice & Open Advanced & Championship

2.5 – 3.0 3.0 – 3.5 3.5 – 4.0

The Judge will set a maximum course time and has the responsible of instructing the timer about the course time. The timer will sound a whistle at maximum course time, and the dog will receive an NT (no time) on their scribe sheet.

SLOTS:

1. Slots will start with a jump to enter the First Slot. No points are earned with this jump.

2. The team must earn exactly 7 Points in the First Slot to continue.

3. The team will then enter a Tunnel or 6 Weaves to enter the Second Slot. The tunnel guarantees a continuation of the game. Completing the 6 Weaves give the team a Turbo Charge worth DOUBLE Points.

4. The team must earn exactly 7 Points in the Second Slot to continue.

5. The team will then enter a Tunnel or 6 Weaves to enter the Third Slot. The tunnel guarantees a continuation of the game. Completing the 6 Weaves give the team a Turbo Charge worth DOUBLE Points.

6. The team must earn exactly 7 Points in the Third Slot to continue.

7. A jump is used to complete the course.

8. Placings will be based on total points, and then time to the 1/10000 of a second. The course must be completed to place.

Total Game Time
	Introductory	Novice & Open	Advanced & Championship
4”, 8" & 12"	55 seconds	50 seconds	45 seconds
16",20&24"	50 seconds	45 seconds	40 seconds

Obstacles on Course	Introductory	Novice	Open	Advanced	Championship
Tire Jump	1	1	1	1	1
Bar Jumps	2-4	2-4	4-6	4-6	6-8
Tunnel And 6 Weaves	Just between slots	Just between slots	Just between slots	Just between slots	Just between slots
Chute	1	1	1	1	1
A-Frame	1	1	1	1	1
See-Saw	0	1	1	1	1
Dog Walk	1	1	1	1	1
Double Jump	0	1	1	1	1
Triple Jump	0	0	1	1	1
Broad Jump	0	0	1	1	1

9. Bar Jumps, Tire Jump: 1 POINT

Chute: 2 POINTS

Double Jump: 2 POINTS

Broad Jump: 2 POINTS

A-Frame: 3 POINTS

Dog Walk: 3 POINTS

See-Saw: 3 POINTS

Triple Jump: 3 POINTS

ONLY ONE 3 POINT OBSTACLE CAN BE USED IN EACH SLOT

Classes for Year End Standings: ULTIMATE TOP DOG:

CAN YOU HANDLE IT-PRECISION:

1. The course always starts with three (3 jumps)

2. The center of the course will consist of three (3) tunnels (size and configuration determined by the judge)

3. There will be 3 sets of 6 weave poles going from the center tunnel configuration to 3 separate challenge sequences. The weaves will be used to go into and out of each challenge sequence.

4. There must be two (2) contact obstacles.

5. The course is designed with the easiest challenge first and the most difficult last.

6. Points are accumulated as marked. (Example: If a team goes off course after obstacle 7, the team’s score would be 7 points plus time to exit which must include a “natural” course back – weaves tunnel and the three (3) jumps.

7. All course points are needed to place and earn points and monies.

Total Game Time

4”, 8" & 12" = 55 seconds

16", 20" & 24" = 50 seconds

STADIUM JUMPING-SPEED

1. The course will consist of jumps only.

2. There must be: 1 broad jump and 2 double or triple jumps on the course.

3. There will be 18-22 obstacles.

4. No Faults are allowed for a run to place and earn points or monies.

Timing – 3.5-4.0 Yards per second. The course shall be measured for 20" dogs, adding 5 seconds for 8" & 12" jump heights if less than 150 yards, adding 10 seconds if over 150 yards.

CROSS COUNTRY-ENDURANCE

1. The course design may use all obstacles used on a Standard Course.

2. The course design should be in an N, M or H shape to provide maximum movement over the field.

3. No Faults are allowed for a run to place and earn points or monies.

COURSE TIME

Standard Course Time	Yards per Second
Advanced	2.50 – 3.00

The Judge will set the maximum course time and is responsible for instructing the timer accordingly. The course yardage is determined by measuring for 20” dogs.

Modifications: Course yardage less than 150 yards 5 seconds will be added to the time for 4”. 8” and 12” dogs.

Course yardage 150 yards and more 10 seconds will be added to the time for 4”. 8” and 12” dogs.

Determining Winners and Places:

1. Clean runs will determine the winner and subsequent places for each trialing level.

2. Scoring for Class Placements: Placements are determined in the following order of importance:

a) Qualifiers

b) Number of faults or points

c) Time

3. If a team has a No Time (NT), that team is ineligible to receive placement monies.

4. Ties will be resolved by the lowest time elapsed for the entire run.

5. Monies paid will be determined by the number on entries at

That level.

6. High In Level and High In Trial awards can be given (in addition to payouts) at the choice of the member or club hosting the trial.

Payout Schedule:

ENTRIES	PAYOUT PLACES	PERCENT OF PAYOUT
1-4	1	100%
5 -8	2	60%	40%
9-12	3	50%	30%	20%
13-16	4	40%	30%	20%	10%
17-20	5	30%	25%	20%	15%	10%
21-24	6	30%	24%	18%	12%	9%	7%
25-28	7	28%	23%	16%	12%	9%	7%	5%
29-32	8	25%	20%	15%	12%	10%	8%	6%	4%
33-36	9	23%	18%	15%	11%	9%	8%	7%	5%	4%
37-40	10	20%	16%	14%	11%	9%	8%	7%	6%	5%	4%
41-45	11	20%	16%	12%	10%	9%	8%	7%	6%	5%	4%	3%
45 & over	12	20%	15%	11%	10%	9%	8%	7%	6%	5%	4%	3%	2%

Titling Requirements:

The dog needs to earn 3 Qualifying Scores on each course, under 2 different judges with one score being in the Top 20% for that class on that day.

The Ultimate Top Dog Events are on the Advanced Level and not for titles. All competitors may participate in this program.