columbiakennelclub

The AKC Coonhound Events Program consists of Nite Hunts, Hunt Tests, Field Trials, Water Races and Bench Shows. Nite Hunts are the most popular of the events and are one of the only competitive sports where dogs hunt in natural areas where native game must be trailed and tracked and has not been planted. There are 7 coonhound breeds which participate in these events, they are – Black and Tan, Bluetick, American English, Leopard Hound, Plott, Redbone, Treeing Walker. These scenthounds are used to hunt raccoon and date back to early American settlers who developed these breeds from colonial foxhounds which arrived from Europe. Each breed was developed with its own hunting style skilled in trailing and treeing raccoons. They are driven hunters and relentless trackers that are often used to hunt big game still today. It is one of the few breed types where it is not unusual to earn both champion titles for their hunting ability as well as for their physical conformation. A true test to both form and function. These hounds love to hunt on land and water across various terrain and climates.

Sure, you think your dog is fast. But have you ever wondered how fast? Can your dog outrun Usain Bolt, who has been called the fastest runner in the world? He just might: Usain’s fastest time has been clocked at almost 28 mph – yet dogs have been known to reach speeds of 35-45 mph. Well, you no longer have to wonder how fast your dog can run. FAST CAT® – which stands for Coursing Ability Test – is a timed 100-yard dash where dogs run one at a time, chasing a lure. It’s over before you know it — and it’s nothing short of awe-inspiring to watch your dog run at top speed, ears back, eyes focused, legs strong. And if your dog is really fast, you might earn bragging rights if his name makes onto our list of top 20 fastest dogs by breed! Although it is a relatively new sport, its popularity has spread like wildfire. No wonder. According to one AKC official, “The FAST CAT® provides a terrific opportunity to introduce new participants to the world of AKC sports as one of the few events where all that is needed to compete is a dog’s natural instincts.”