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
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Pre-registration is required.
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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.
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Dogs from the same household may run together in the same time slot, with a maximum of two dogs per run.
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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.
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Requests to change dates or times may be accommodated when possible but are not guaranteed.
Weather and Cancellations
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All dates are subject to change and may be canceled due to unsafe running conditions. Email notifications will be sent if lure course is canceled.
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If conditions are questionable, we recommend calling ahead before coming to the event.
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Refunds will only be issued if the event is canceled by EBHS.
Is Lure Course Right for Your Dog?
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Running the lure course is not appropriate for every dog. A dog’s age, size, physical condition, and overall fitness should all be considered before participating.
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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
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We do not recommend dogs under 1 year of age run the lure course, as they are still physically developing.
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Dogs with known physical health concerns should not run the course due to the increased risk of injury.
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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
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Dogs that show aggression toward people or other dogs will be asked to leave.
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When not actively running the course, all dogs must be kept on a 6 ft, non-retractable leash and under control.
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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
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Water will be provided.
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Owners are required to clean up after their dogs. Waste bags will be available at the event.
Training and Force Free Handling
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Lure course is a highly stimulating environment and is not intended to be used as a training opportunity. Dogs may show normal prey-driven, instinctual behaviors while running the course. Please do not correct or punish your dog for these behaviors.
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EBHS follows a Force Free Training policy, which means we do not use pain, fear, intimidation, startling techniques, or physical force when working with animals. Force Free Training considers an animal’s emotions and behavior, along with the science of how animals learn. This approach helps keep the event safe, positive, and humane for all dogs.
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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.
May
June
July
August
September
October
