A few of the quickest pups around were crowned the champions at The American Kennel Club (AKC) National Dexterity Champion, taking place March 26-28 at a livestock complex in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

According to the AKC, “The exposition is an indoor, climate-controlled horse arena on dirt and has multiple rings set up for competition. After the pandemic canceled last year’s event, leading dexterity canine professional athletes aspire to participate in this year’s event.”

The champion included over 1,122 pet dogs from across the country, including 100 different breeds. All rivals completed in jumps varying in height from 4″ to 24″ (based on size).

The two-hour competitors aired last night on ESPN2, providing sports fans a real preview of the athletic capability of pets. “We’re delighted we were able to have this year’s championship with safety procedures in location, however with all the fun of a dexterity competition,” stated Carrie DeYoung, AKC’s Agility Director.

For those folks that are new to the sport (or checking out a pet dog dexterity championship for the first time), here’s a fast introduction. The AKC states that dexterity courses (or barrier courses) typically have between 14-20 barriers consisting of dives, canine ramps, weave poles, tire jumps, open tunnels, seesaw, A-frame, and a pause table. The course is timed and scored by judges.

According to the AKC, it’s one of the fastest growing canine sports in the United States. “And as an additional perk, even these fundamental skills can assist develop your canine’s confidence, decrease his anxiety, increase his trust, and present him to brand-new experiences,” includes the organization.