UKC shares historic update for Field Dog Stud Book (FDSB) eligible breeds. See News section for full details.

I Accept

United Kennel Club (UKC) is an international dog registry celebrating bonds, rewarding ability, and preserving the value of a pedigree. We use cookies to capture information such as IP addresses and tailor the website to our clients' needs. We also use this information to target and measure promotional material. Please see our Privacy Policy for more information.

Skip to main content
Facebook Instagram Subscribe to E-news YouTube

ESD FAQ: Running Rules That Apply To All Classes

Rules Review

October 30, 2020

Source: Todd Kellam
Email: tkellam@ukcdogs.com

The following pertains to the UKC Elite Shed Dog Series official running rules.

Read the ESD rulebook

Clarification A question regarding videoing dogs on course has been coming up recently. In answering the question we take two important things into consideration. First and foremost is the integrity of the event and our attempt to keep the playing field level and fair. But we should also take into consideration the opportunity to grow and promote our sport.

Rule in question:

13. Cell phones and GPS devices may not be used by handlers on the course.

Under no circumstances should anyone who has connections to a dog or handler entered in the event be permitted to video a run either on the course or from the gallery. This is to protect the integrity of the event. We realize that 99% of the people who would like to video their run would never do so with the intent to cheat. However, it's that 1% that we have to write strict rules for and its to protect you, the honest handler. The rules against conspiring to cheat are clear and strict. To aid us in being able to enforce the rules it is necessary we prohibit anyone with a connection to a dog or handler from taking video during a run.

Should an event have a reporter, t.v. show, etc. on hand to cover the event it would be permissible to allow such on a course within reason. We are still obligated to keep disruption to a minimum out of respect to handlers and dogs. Ground rules should be clearly laid out to anyone covering the event in this manner so that they do not interfere with the running of the event. Growing our sport is an advantage to all of us! Let's do so while keeping a clear sense of a fair and level playing field.

Guided by the belief that dogs make a difference by being the best partner a human can have in the field, on the job, or in a competition event, UKC is a community for people and dogs to pursue excellence together. Founded in 1898, UKC has been dedicated to enhancing the lives of Dogs That Do More, and their owners, by providing essential resources to help owners and breeders make informed decisions. The dog-human bond is celebrated through family-friendly programs highlighting the instincts and heritage of purebred and mixed-breed dogs alike at over 15,000 licensed events annually.

Back to Elite Shed Dog Series News >