The World Championships seek to adhere to the standard rules utilized by dog surf competitions across the globe. We do this in order to have the same general rules and expectations across events.
The rules include information regarding heats, dog sizes, safety protocols, and judging.
In general, entrants will be judged on elements such as: length of ride, the size of the wave, certainty on the board, (tricks are a bonus)
Dog Weight Categories:
Small Dog Surfing Heat - 1-20 pound dog
Medium Dog Surfing Heat - 21-40 pound dog
Large Dog Surfing Heat - 41-60 pound dog
Very Large Dog Surfing Heat - 61 pound or more dog
Tandem Dogs Surfing Heat - multiple dogs, any size
Tandem Human/Dog Surfing Heat - 1 human and 1 dog, any size
COMPETITION PROCEDURE
Dogs in each heat have 10 minutes to catch as many waves as they can.
Performances are scored by the judges panel. Each dog can earn up to 10 points from each judge. Points are awarded based on the following:
• Length of the ride (including if board reaches shore)
• Technique (eg. standing on all fours, sitting, laying down)
• Confidence
• Size or strength of the wave
• Other style aspects
The three highest scoring competitors from each heat category are awarded 1st, 2nd and 3rd place for that award category.
The 2 highest scoring competitors from each heat category compete against the highest scoring competitors from the other heats (excluding the Tandem heats) for the Top All-Around Surfing Championship Awards.
DOG SAFETY
REQUIRED GEAR
• Boards: A foam or foam and fiberglass surfboard
• Dog Life Jackets or Vests: A Life Jacket or Vest for the dog participant
• Human Gear: A Life Jackets or Vests or rash guard for the human participant
Gear is not provided by the Organizers. Examples of gear can be found here.
NOTE: Unlike with human surfers, Surfing Dogs cannot be leashed or attached to surf boards during the competition, as this it not safe for the dog in the water.
LEASHES ON BEACHES
For environmental concerns and our local native wildlife, all dogs whether attending or participating are required to remain on-leash when not actually in the water and competing.
NOTE: Unlike with human surfers, Surfing Dogs cannot be leashed or attached to surf boards during the competition, as this it not safe for the dog in the water.