Canine Communication

Flyball is a team sport for dogs and their handlers.  It is loud, full of energy, and fun for all involved - the dogs, handlers, judges, and spectators. Dogs of all shapes, sizes, breeds, colors, and ages can participate in flyball. Dogs with high drive for ball are in particular very suitable for Fly Ball Training.

Flyball got its start in the 1970's when Californian Herbert Wagner developed the first
tennis ball launcher. Subsequently, the new sport for dog enthusiasts was introduced in
the Toronto - Detroit area by several dog training clubs. After a few small tournaments
were held in conjunction with dog shows, the first ever Flyball tournament was held in 1983.

Flyball races match two teams of four dogs each, racing side-by-side over a 51 foot long
course.  Each dog must run in relay fashion down the jumps, trigger a Flyball box releasing
the ball, retrieve the ball, and return over the jumps.   The next dog is released to run the
course but can't cross the start/finish line until the previous dog has returned over all 4
jumps and reached the start/finish line.  The first team to have all 4 dogs finish the course
without error wins the heat.