LURE COURSE

Please review this information before registering your dog for Elmbrook Humane Society’s lure course.
Our top priority is keeping dogs and people safe.

What is Lure Coursing?

Many dogs have a natural instinct to chase and lure coursing creates a structured outlet for this natural behavior.  It presents a simulated opportunity for a dog to pursue “prey” in an open (but fully fenced-in) field. EBHS utilizes a mechanical lure which consists of a white plastic bag attached to a movable line. Our lure operators are trained to run the course in such a way that they mimic prey movements and the unpredictability of a real chase. Our onsite lure course is about 650 yards in length and our offsite courses (Wagfest) are about 500 yards in length. Check out this short clip of our course in action!

Will My Dog Like It?

If your dog likes to chase, play fetch, or has a high prey drive, they will likely enjoy lure coursing! EBHS lure course events are a great, low-pressure introduction to the sport and can be enjoyed by first-time or experienced coursers. Some dogs might need some coaxing initially but they generally catch on quickly and follow along with great enthusiasm!

Lure coursing is not for every dog. We do not recommend dogs under 1 year of age (they are still developing) or those that have any physical health concerns run the course (increased risk for injury). Be aware of your dog’s physical capabilities and be attentive to their condition before and after an event. Always consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your dog running lure course.

Registration and Scheduling
 
  • Each time slot is $10 per dog. A second dog from the same household may run in the same time slot for an additional $5.
  • Dogs from the same household may run together in the same time slot, with a maximum of two dogs per run.
  • Dogs may run more than once, but not consecutively. If you would like your dog to run more than once, please stagger your registration times.
  • Requests to change dates or times may be accommodated when possible but are not guaranteed.
Weather and Cancellations
  • If conditions are questionable, we recommend calling ahead before coming to the event.
  • Refunds will only be issued if the event is canceled by EBHS.
 
Is Lure Course Right for Your Dog?
  • For safety reasons, the lure course operator has the final decision on whether a dog may run, continue running, or stop running the course.
Dog Age and Health Guidelines
  • Dogs with known physical health concerns should not run the course due to the increased risk of injury.
  • Please be aware of your dog’s physical abilities and pay close attention to their condition before, during, and after the event. You know your dog best, and we rely on you to make the best decision for their well-being. Please consult your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about whether lure course is appropriate for your dog.
Dog Behavior and Safety
  • Please do not allow your dog to go nose-to-nose with unfamiliar dogs unless both owners agree and are present.
Running the Course

Some dogs do not immediately understand how to run a lure course. The operator may try different techniques to help get your dog interested.

Event Rules and Courtesy
  • Owners are required to clean up after their dogs. Waste bags will be available at the event.
Training and Force Free Handling
  • Dogs may not wear prong collars, choke collars, electronic training collars, or similar corrective equipment while participating in the event.

2026 Onsite Schedule (held at EBHS)

All onsite lure events are held on Fridays from 4-6pm.

Click each date below to register or learn more. The Red date is lure course sign up for our TDIF (Thank Dog It’s Friday) event.

 

May

June

July

August

September

October