Just because your dog has a few more gray hairs doesn't mean the fun has to stop. UKI's Veterans classes are designed specifically for older dogs that still love to run, jump, and compete — just at a pace and intensity that suits their age.
Who Is Eligible?
Veterans classes are open to dogs that have reached a minimum age threshold, which varies by the size of the dog. Larger breeds typically become eligible earlier since they tend to mature and age faster than smaller breeds. Your dog's age is based on their registered date of birth, and eligibility is straightforward to determine.
What Classes Are Available?
UKI offers Veterans versions of its core agility classes, including Agility and Jumping. Veterans dogs run on courses that are appropriate for their needs — typically with lower jump heights and modified equipment. The courses still challenge your dog's skills and your handling, but they are built with the older athlete in mind.
A Separate Track
One important thing to understand about Veterans in UKI is that it sits as a lateral track, not part of the standard progression chain. In the regular program, dogs move up through levels like Beginner, Novice, Senior, and Champion. Veterans does not feed into or out of that progression. It is its own thing.
This means your dog's Veterans results are tracked separately. There is no pressure to qualify out of Veterans into a higher level — because there is no higher level to move to. Your dog simply competes in Veterans and earns recognition within that track.
Still Competitive, Still Fun
Don't mistake Veterans for a retirement class. The dogs running Veterans are experienced, well-trained, and often very fast for their age. The competition is real, and the atmosphere at the ring is full of respect for these seasoned athletes and their handlers.
Many handlers say that running Veterans is some of the most enjoyable agility they do. There is less pressure about level progression and more focus on celebrating the bond between dog and handler. It is a wonderful way to keep your dog active, engaged, and happy in their later years.
Can My Dog Run Veterans and Regular Classes?
In most cases, yes. If your dog is age-eligible for Veterans, you can enter Veterans classes while also continuing to run in the regular program if your dog is physically up for it. This gives you flexibility to tailor your trial entries based on how your dog is feeling on any given day.
Barkloop supports Veterans as a distinct class track, making it easy for trial secretaries to manage Veterans entries, results, and placements alongside the regular program. Keep your seasoned competitors in the spotlight with Barkloop.