Articles
Happy Hoopers publishes also weekly publication on Substack in Finnish. In case you’re interested, please see from HERE.
The Hoopers Stride Challenge results are here! We explored how dogs of different sizes move through a simple three-hoop setup. With 150 participating dogs representing 53 breeds, the data offers an eye-opening look at stride patterns, speed, and size differences. Dive into the findings and see what we learned.
In this second part of the series, Michelle Johnston looks back on how hoopers found its place in France and what she hopes the sport will hold on to as it grows. She reflects on the early steps, the role of fairness in competition and the connection between dog and handler that remains at the heart of hoopers.
Michelle Johnston, one of the pioneers of hoopers in France, shares her perspective on what keeps the sport safe and enjoyable. She highlights the importance of clear teaching, smooth lines and giving the dog time to understand the task, so training stays both confident and injury-free.
Hoopers is often associated with large, fast-moving dogs, but small dogs can find their own superpower in the sport too. In this article, two handlers, Mimmi and Inka, share their experiences training hoopers with small dogs: the challenges, insights, successes, and hopes for the sport’s future. This is the second part of the Small Dogs in Hoopers series, created in collaboration with Happy Hoopers and Tiima Dog Sport.
Miten eri kokoiset koirat liikkuvat hoopers-radalla?
#laukkahaaste kutsuu sinut tarkastelemaan, miten oma koirasi etenee. Laske laukat ja osallistu!
How do dogs of different sizes move on a hoopers course?
#stridechallenge invites you to observe your dog’s movement. Count the strides and participate!
Happy Hoopers and Tiima Dogs Sport explored the experiences of small dog handlers in hoopers through an international survey that gathered 360 responses from 18 countries. This publication highlights the sport’s suitability, challenges, and successes from the perspective of small dogs, as well as handlers’ hopes for the future development of hoopers.
What does it take to become a successful hoopers team? According to Italian coach Renata Camis, it all starts with four key elements: Lines, Skills, Timing and Trust. In this post, we dive into her LSTT method and explore how she uses it.
Why is trust the core of hoopers? What makes patience the biggest challenge in this sport? In this article, we share insights from Italian hoopers coach and handler Renata Camis, who brings a thoughtful, passionate perspective on what hoopers means to her.
In the final part of our conversation with Lisa and Veronique, we take a look at the Dutch hoopers scene and then ahead to the future of hoopers. They will share their hopes for the hoopers and why inclusivity and joy should remain at its heart.
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Hoopers training inspiration can run out even for experienced handlers. This article explores common challenges in hoopers practice and shows how ready-made exercises can support skill development, variety and motivation. Learn how training with 1-6 obstacles can be effective, flexible and easy to adapt for different spaces and skill levels.