Dogs and Companion/Performance Sport: Unique Social Worlds, Serious Leisure Enthusiasts, and Solid Human-Canine Partnerships

Abstract

As with many sports enjoyed by humans, canine sports have evolved from activities often serving utilitarian purposes. For centuries hunters have taken along dogs for their natural ability to flush out game. Dogs have swum with families on vacations, often diving off docks. Shepherds have used dogs to move sheep and other livestock. Farmers have used dogs to flush out vermin and other critters that harm their crops. Those living in the northern climates have used dogs to pull sleds for transportation and supply delivery.