Welcome to the world of dock jumping! If you're new to this exciting sport or just curious about some of the terms and concepts involved, you've come to the right place. In this article, we'll delve into the NADD Glossary, providing explanations and insights into the terminology and rules of dock jumping. Whether you're a handler, competitor, or simply a dog lover, this FAQ guide will help you navigate the world of dock jumping with ease. So let's jump right in!
Air Retrieve
Q: What is Air Retrieve in dock jumping?
A: Air Retrieve is a competition where a toy is suspended 2 feet above the surface of the dock and gradually moves away from the dock with each successful grab. Handlers pick their dog's starting distance, and as the dog successfully grabs the toy, it is moved out in 1-foot increments.
Q: How does Air Retrieve scoring work?
A: In Air Retrieve, dogs are scored based on the height at which they successfully grab the toy. The higher the grab, the more points they earn. Each dog has three attempts to grab the toy at increasing heights.
Titles and Divisions
Q: What are the different divisions in dock jumping?
A: There are five main divisions for competition: Novice, Junior, Senior, Master, and Elite. The distances and requirements vary depending on whether the dog competes in Open, Lap, Air Retrieve, or Lap Air Retrieve.
Q: How do dogs earn titles in dock jumping?
A: To earn a title in dock jumping, a dog must achieve five qualifying jumps in the same division. Dogs can work on earning multiple titles simultaneously.
Equipment and Facilities
Q: What is a dock in dock jumping?
A: The dock is a flat, level surface 24 inches above the water's surface. It serves as the launching pad for dogs to jump into the pool. The dock is typically 40 feet long and covered in an “astro turf” like surface to prevent dogs from slipping when wet.
Q: What is a bumper in dock jumping?
A: A bumper is a common throw toy used in dock jumping. It is usually made of harder plastic or rubber and shaped like a large pill. Some handlers decorate them with ribbons or decorative tape to make them more individual or visible to the dog.
Q: What is a sanctioned facility in dock jumping?
A: A sanctioned facility is a facility approved to hold NADD events. Only NADD-sanctioned facilities can host official dock jumping competitions.
Competition and Scoring
Q: How does scoring work in distance jump?
A: In distance jump, dogs are scored based on how far they jump, measured to the point where the base of the dog's tail enters the water. The farther the jump, the more points they earn.
Q: What is a qualifying jump?
A: A qualifying jump is when a dog jumps into the water from the dock on their own accord within the allotted time. The higher of the two qualifying jumps is recorded as the official qualifying score.
Q: How are dogs scored in Air Retrieve?
A: In Air Retrieve, dogs are scored based on the height at which they successfully grab the toy. The higher the grab, the more points they earn.
FAQs
Q: Can I participate in dock jumping if I'm new to the sport?
A: Absolutely! Dock jumping offers try-it sessions during events for newcomers to try the sport or for dogs to get acclimated to the dock and pool. Check with the event organizers for more information.
Q: Are there any restrictions on the type of toys used in dock jumping?
A: Yes, toys used in dock jumping must float, be throwable, be non-edible, not be alive or have never been alive, and not dissolve in water. Only two toys are allowed on the dock during competitions.
Q: Can I enter a competition on the day of the event?
A: Yes, day-of-show entries are allowed in dock jumping. You can sign up for splashes at the event on the day you want to compete.
Q: How do I earn an invite to the National Championships?
A: To earn an invite to the National Championships, dogs must participate in a qualifier event and have a minimum of three completed splashes. The average of all their jumps is taken, and the top dogs in each division automatically earn invites.
Q: What is sandbagging in dock jumping?
A: Sandbagging refers to intentionally jumping a dog below its potential to gain a competitive edge or earn a lower ranking. This practice is not allowed and can result in disqualification.
Q: Can handlers use double handling during competitions?
A: No, double handling, which involves throwing the toy from outside the pool or splashing the water to entice the dog to jump, is not allowed. Dogs must jump on their own accord.
Q: Are there any age restrictions for handlers in dock jumping?
A: The minimum age for a handler is 5 years old, with an adult serving as an additional handler. At age 7, handlers can compete alone on the dock.
Q: How are dogs categorized as Lap Dogs?
A: Dogs measuring under 16 inches at the withers are considered Lap Dogs. They are considered “unverified” until they have been measured at a mobile event, Nationals, or have a permanent Height Card from AKC or CKC.
Q: Can I enter a splash more than once with different dogs?
A: Yes, handlers can enter a splash more than once with different dogs. However, each dog may compete in a splash only once.
Q: What is the purpose of the jump card in dock jumping?
A: The jump card is a card that handlers receive when they check in at mobile events. It contains the dog's information and serves as a sign that the handler wants to jump their dog. The score written on the jump card is the official score for the splash.
Keys to take away
- Dock jumping is an exhilarating sport that involves dogs jumping into water from a dock.
- Air Retrieve is a competition where dogs grab a toy suspended above the water.
- Titles in dock jumping are earned through qualifying jumps in specific divisions.
- The dock serves as the launching pad for dogs to jump into the pool.
- Scoring in dock jumping is based on distance or height, depending on the competition.
- Dock jumping events offer try-it sessions for newcomers and acclimation sessions for dogs.
- Handlers must adhere to rules and restrictions to ensure fair competition.
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