Can any dog take part?
At open events, yes, as long as it's healthy and chases the lure. Dogs compete in breed and size categories.
Speed and running
Straight Racing
The simplest race there is: a straight run of a few hundred metres, a lure at the end and a stopwatch. With no turns, the risk of injury is far lower.
About the discipline
What Straight Racing is
Straight racing strips out everything complicated. No turns, no oval track. You get a straight stretch, a lure and a clock.
People like the format because it's simple and safe. With no turns at speed, the joints take far less load than in track racing or coursing.
It's often run as an open event, with very different breeds turning up, each in its own category. For plenty of owners it's the first time they see their dog run absolutely flat out, safely.
How it works in practice
How it works
- a straight lane, from 100 to a few hundred metres
- a lure pulled mechanically to the far end
- dogs run alone or in pairs, in lanes
- electronic timing
- categories by breed and size
- a run-out area for braking past the finish
Which dogs it suits
- any healthy dog that chases a lure
- dogs for whom turns would be risky
- owners who want to try a first race
What you need
- nothing special for the owner
- an ID collar, at some events
- water and time to cool down after the run
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about Straight Racing
Is it safer than coursing?
Yes. Without high-speed turns the risk of injury drops a lot. That's why we recommend it as a first race.
How do I know if my dog will enjoy it?
You'll see straight away. A dog with chase drive takes off after the lure without hesitating. If it doesn't follow it, don't push: this just isn't its thing.
Does the dog need any prior training?
Next to nothing. It has to be healthy and keen to chase the lure, that's all. No obedience needed, no special training. That's why we recommend this format for a first race: if your dog happily chases a toy dragged along the ground, it's ready.
The rule figures on this page come from FCI - Regulations for international sighthound racing and lure coursing events, 2026. Rules change and federations differ - always check the rulebook of the competition you are entering.
From the same category
Related sports
Canicross
Running off-road with the dog clipped to your waist.
Bikejoring
The dog runs ahead of the bike and pulls it.
Scooterjoring
The dog pulls a purpose-built off-road scooter.
Skijoring
Cross-country skiing with one or more dogs pulling you.
We do not run Straight Racing
This page is informational. We work in mantrailing, search and rescue and preparation for the TSAC and BH exams - but if you want an honest opinion on what would suit your dog, write to us anytime.