The Sport of Dock Diving

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What is Dock Diving/Jumping?
Dock jumping is a sport for dogs that love the water. It involves a dock with a pool full of about 28,000 gallons of water. It is addicting and it is a blast. There are several different types of dock jumping.

One is based on distance, you want your dog to bolt down the dock as fast as he can and leap as far as he can into the pool of water. The distance is determined by where the base of the tail hits the water (in most organizations). You get two jumps.

Another is based on height. There is a toy hanging out over the water and it is raised by increments, the dog that can jump the highest to get that toy is the winner.

Catch-It is for those whose dogs can catch the toy as it's being thrown. Each handler/dog team gets two jumps and the combined distances determine the winner.

Speed Retrieve is for those that think their dogs are the fastest swimmer. It is a race against time for a dog to run, jump and swim to get the object in the fastest time possible.


Where Can I Get More Information?

There are multiple organizations that are involved in the sport of dock jumping and from there, multiple clubs. These places include:

Ultimate Air Dogs and the Ultimate Air Dog Forum

The United Kennel Club now includes dock jumping in their list of sports, so you can get your dog titled if you wish. They have many helpful articles as well, such as:

• Dock Jumping
• Getting Your Dog Started in Dock Jumping
• Dock Jumping Rules

Dock Dogs

• Whose Rules are listed HERE.

Splash Dogs

Sport Mutt has a great article on how to get your dog jumping further:

• Understanding and Working "The Chase"
• Along with many other very helpful and informational articles that can be found HERE

What Do I Bring to an Event?

Following is a list of things I suggest you bring to at least your first event, afterwards you'll know more what to expect and can modify to suit yourself

• Crate
• Water Dish
• Water for you and your dog
• Towels
• Chairs
• Floating, non-food toy
• Dog treats
• Flat collar, with no tags
• Change of clothes
• Tent for outdoor events (and sunscreen!)
• Coat for your dog for chilly or indoor events
• Leash
• Dog's shot records (I've never needed them but I bring them just in case)
• Change of clothes (I've personally fallen in...and didn't have them )
• Cooler with food for you if it's an all day event

What Should I Expect at My First Event?

For the most part, these events are busy, busy places. Expect a lot of noise, a lot of dogs, a lot of people, and to get wet. When you get to your event, you'll want to stake out your "place" and get everything set up (usually need to park away from the pool) and go park. Then you'll go to the registration tent to sign you and your dog in and sign a waiver. At this time, there is usually open dock practice for the upcoming jump. Get in line with your dog and try it out.

Frequently, a newbie (or even an experienced dog) will refuse to jump. This can be attributed to any number of things: noise, crowd, dogs but a big deal is that the water is clear and it is 2' lower than the dock. Most dogs aren't used to that. One way to try out a newbie is to let them get wet off the exit ramp, so they know there's water in there, and then try them again on the dock. Only throw the toy a very short distance, so it's essentially just out of reach and your dog just needs to get it. Have fun, don't get mad and be encouraging! If your dog goes in, you know you're doing it right if you make a giant fool of yourself cheering (but don't forget to go get your dog from the exit ramp ). If your dog doesn't go in, be patient, some dogs take more time than others. Some people swear by jumping in themselves and frequently their dogs will follow suit!

When it's time for the official jumping to start, find out what order you are in and get ready. If ever you are confused, lost or just need a hand - always ask - this is a very, very friendly community and just a great time in general with fantastic and nice people.

Most importantly, HAVE FUN!!