EWPL Board A. The EWPL Board consists of two representatives from each member organization. One of the representatives per organization must be the National Head Judge, the second representative per organization is chosen by the respective organization.
EWPL Rules A. A review of the ruleset follows the International Championships every year. Any changes to the rules must be voted on by a majority of the EWPL Board. B. A simple majority vote is more than half of the EWPL Board representatives. C. All rule amendments released following an EWPL Board review, will be valid the following season. D. Amendments to or changes of the rules cannot be done during the season. E. Rule proposals must be submitted to the EWPL Board at the latest at the International Championship the year of the review directly to the EWPL Board via email. F. EWPL Board members and judges need to be in agreement regarding interpretation and implements of the rules. G. Questions regarding the rules or interpretations of the rules are to be raised to the EWPL Board for discussion and clarification. H. EWPL judges are not allowed to accept payment for judging a competition. If an organizer needs to invite an EWPL judge (that is not to compete), the judge’s expenses (transport, food etc.) can be covered by the organizer, if the organizer chooses to. I. If any rules are broken during a competition, anyone can contact the Competition Head Judge and/or the organizer and ask for the competition to be halted, until the situation has been reviewed and any faults have been corrected. Questions can be raised to the EWPL Board, who will respond if available. J. Dictionary Warning – The handler can continue the competition. (E.g. - Tangle, Slingshot, touching the dog before the pull is finished) Second warning – The handler is out of the competition, the last approved pull will register as the result for the competition day. (e.g. - two of the listed examples above, tangle and tangle, tangle and slingshot, and so on) Two warnings –The handler is now out of the competition. Last approved pull will be registered as the result. Disqualification –dog and handler are out of the competition, and no results will be registered. E.g.: unsportsmanlike behavior, violence against dogs, etc. All disqualifications due to uncontrollable behavior, aggression or unsportsmanlike conduct will be reported to the EWPL Board. Severe and ongoing cases will be reviewed by the EWPL Board for possible action. Re-start: The dog is hooked off the cart. Handler and dog walk down the track to the starting line. The handler and dog do not leave the track. The handler is not allowed to leave the dog before being given an ok from the judge.
EWPL Sanctioned Competitions A. To host an EWPL sanctioned competition applications must be received by the EWPL Board at least 30 days before the competition is to take place. B. EWPL competitions cannot be held on the same weekend nationally. If more than one organization applies for the same weekend, the EWPL affiliated organization will have precedence. C. Competition results must be sent to the EWPL Board within 5 days after the competition has been held. Any delay in this must be communicated with the EWPL Board. D. Maximum entry fee for an EWPL member is 40 Euros per dog per day. Entry fee for non-EWPL members is the choice of the organizer. E. Entry fees are only refunded if a dog is out of the competition before the competition starts (e.g.: bitch in heat, injuries. National differences can occur.)
EWPL Judges & Judge Education A. Before a new competition season, all EWPL judges must pass a written test. If the test is not completed before the next season starts, the judge will have their license revoked and will have to stand apprentice again to become a qualified EWPL judge. B. The EWPL Board is responsible for creating the judges test every year. The National Head Judge of the respective EWPL affiliated organization is responsible for evaluating their country’s judges’ tests. C. An EWPL judge must judge a minimum of two classes at two different competitions every season or else license will be revoked. If a judge missed judging for a whole year,an application can be sent in to the EWPL Board who then can grant an exemption. D. The National Head Judge is responsible for the whole process of educating and approving new judges and correcting the judges’ test within their respective country. E. An EWPL judge-apprentice must have been an active competitor within the sport for a minimum of one competition season. F. Apprentices must have passed a written EWPL exam prior to standing as apprentice at a competition. G. The apprentice must work alongside a certified EWPL judge for a minimum of three weight classes at a minimum of two different competitions. A minimum of one of these occasions must be alongside the National Head Judge. H. The National Head Judge will give the final approval of the apprentice. When approved by the National Head Judge, an EWPL license will be awarded to the new judge. The license is required to be allowed to judge an EWPL sanctioned competition. I. Newly qualified judges cannot have apprentices or judge at the National or International Championship for the first season of being a judge. J. Numerous written complaints can result in a judge’s license being revoked. Each case is to be handled by the EWPL Board.
1. Criteria for competing in an EWPL sanctioned competition
A. All dogs must be over the age of 18 months. B. All dogs must be ID-marked by microchip or tattoo. C. All dogs must comply with the national/local requirements for vaccinations. Contact the respective country’s head organization for further information. EWPL recommend the following vaccinations: Canine distemper, Canine parvovirus, infectious canine hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Kennel cough and Rabies (to compete internationally). D. EWPL recommend that all dogs have their hips and elbows X-rayed. E. All vaccinations must be approved by local, state or national authorities in the country where the competition is held. See section 6 for information about the various countries' vaccination policies. F. EWPL follows the National Performance-Enhancing regulations. The use of performance-enhancing drugs e.g. steroids and painkillers are prohibited. If a dog is tested positive for any prohibited drugs, the handler will be suspended from EWPL sanctioned competitions for life. The dog will be suspended for the remainder of the season. Please refer to the attached links at the bottom of the EWPL rules to view each country’s National Performance Enhancing regulations. G. If a dog is on medication, an exemption can be made. An application for exemption must be sent to the organizer’s National Head Judge a minimum of 3 weeks prior to the competition. H. The veterinarian and the Competition Head Judge will make a health assessment of each dog prior to entering the competition. Both the veterinarian and the Competition Head Judge can disqualify any dog they deem to be in an unhealthy condition. If a dog is not cleared up in vet check, or if the veterinarian or the Competition Head Judge has a reservation, information regarding this shall be handed to the EWPL Board for statistic and opportunity to follow up. I. All competitors must sign a declaration form stating that the dog is healthy and has not been injured prior to the competition. This will take place during weigh-in or vet check on the competition day. J. If an injury occurs during a competition, or a dog fails the vet check, the veterinarian or the Competition Head Judge will decide what actions to take and the handler must comply with the decision. If a dog is stopped due to injury, either during vet check or during the competition itself, the Competition Head Judge must notify the EWPL Board of the incident (this includes handler’s name, dog’s name and type of injury). The EWPL Board will review the severity of the injury reported and then contact the handler of the stopped dog to discuss the next steps to be taken. Following severe injury/health implications, the handler of the stopped dog will need to notify the EWPL Board when the dog has been to a vet check after the competition. A letter from an approved veterinarian must then be presented to the EWPL Board prior to the next competition to be able to compete. K. Bitches in heat are not allowed to compete and are not allowed at the competition area. L. Pregnant or breastfeeding bitches (10 weeks after birth) are not allowed to participate in competitions. M. All dogs must compete in an EWPL-approved harness. The harness must not be longer than 75 cm from where the tail begins to where the cart is attached. The harness must fit the dog, as it can be painful and cause injuries if too big or too small. The harness must not put any pressure on the lower back of the dog. The harness will be checked at the weigh-in by the Competition Head Judge and should be checked while on the dog. If the harness is deemed unsafe, harmful or has a potential risk for injury, the Competition Head Judge has the right to stop the handler from using that harness. N. Individuals who participate in illegal activities with their dog may not participate in any EWPL sanctioned competitions. Any concerns shall be raised directly to the EWPL Board. O. A one-day competition is defined by: - Weigh-in for all dogs. No need for weigh-in on the second day if competitions are held on two consecutively following days. – Vet check for all dogs, optional for Norway. – Handlers meeting at the start of the competition day. – Competition Head Judge or vet shall check movement on all dogs the second day, if competitions are held on two consecutively following days. Dogs only doing the second day need to have a full vet check. – The class winner at a one-day competition is the dog that pulls the most weight in relation to its body weight (P4P). - If there are several one-day competitions consecutively following each other the starting order of and within the weight classes shall be the same on all competition days. – It is allowed to switch handlers between competition days, but not during a competition day. A two-day competition is defined by: – No weigh-in on the second day for the dogs competing on the first day. – No vet checks on day two for the dogs competing on the first day. – Handlers meeting at the start of the competition day. – The starting order of and within the weight classes shall be the same day 1 and day 2. – The class winner at a two-day competition is the dog that total pulls the most weight in relation to its body weight (P4P) (results from both days are to be combined) – It is allowed to switch handlers from day one to day two, but not during a competition day. P. The organizer chooses the starting order of their competitions. If they choose to raffle the starting order this must be declared in the entry form and announced at least 4 days before the entry registration closes. The starting order must be the same at a two-day competition or at consecutively following one-day competitions. Q. At competitions where the starting order goes from lightest to heaviest, the lightest dog will start. At competitions where the start order goes from heaviest to lightest, the heaviest dog will start. R. The dog that pulls the most weight, in relation to its body weight, is the winner (p4P,pound for pound). If two or more dogs finish with the same p4p, the dog that finished the pull in the shortest amount of time will be the winner. S. Consistent weight increments should be used throughout the whole weight class competition. T. All pulls must be timed with a clock that shows 1/100 sec. All pulls must be recorded in 1/100 seconds. U. A handler can enter any number of dogs in the same weight class
Weigh-In A. All dogs must be weighed in at a specified time before an EWPL sanctioned competition. Dogs must either use a leash offered by the organizer (same leash will be used for every dog), or be "naked" at weigh-in. B. If a dog misses weigh-in the dog will not be allowed to participate in the competition and the entry fee will not be refunded. C. The scales must be placed on a flat and hard surface. The Competition Head Judge must ensure this before and after the weigh-ins. Once the registered weights are approved by the Competition Head Judge, protests will not be accepted. D. The Competition Head Judge and a person from the organization must conduct the weigh-in. E. The dog’s weight must be registered with only one decimal, e.g. 22,3 kg. F. The dog is allowed to have a maximum of two weigh-ins, where the last weight will be the registered competition weight. All dogs can be required by the Competition Head Judge to have an additional weigh-in during the weigh-in period, this will be registered weight, even if the handler already has done two weigh-ins.
Weight Classes A. EWPL's weight classes are as follows (all weights are measured in kg): Lightweight: -5: 0 to 4.99 -10: 5 to 9.99 -15: 10 to 14.99 -20: 15 to 19.99 -25: 20 to 24.99 -30: 25 to 29.99 Heavyweight: -37: 30 to 36.99 -44: 37 to 43.99 -51: 44 to 50.99 +51: 51 to unlimited B. Making changes in a weight class requires a majority vote within the EWPL Board.
Proper conduct of dog & handler A. All participants (handlers, owners, etc.) are responsible for their dog's behavior. B. Violence towards dogs is not tolerated before, during or after a competition. C. Unsportsmanlike conduct towards dogs, competitors, spectators, officials and so forth will result in disqualification of the handler and all the handler’s dogs. This applies before, during and after the competition. D. All uncontrolled dogs will be disqualified from the competition. This also includes excessive aggression. E. Dogs that disturb other dogs in the Holding Area will receive a Holding Area warning. After a second warning the dog will be out of the competition. The Pit Boss will alert and report all behavior to the Class Judge. F. A dog that is disqualified due to uncontrollable aggression or the handler’s unsportsmanlike conduct on the first day of a two-day competition, will not be allowed to compete on the second day. G. All handlers must attend the handlers’ meeting. Decision regarding weight increments will be made at the handlers’ meeting. If a handler arrives late or misses the handlers’ meeting, they will be given a Holding Area warning. They will also lose the possibility to influence any decisions made within the handlers’ meeting. H. If a dog misses weigh-in or vet check or is late for its own class, the dog will be disqualified and not allowed to compete. I. Own treats are allowed in the Holding Area. The treats need to be shown to and approved by the Competition Head Judge. The handler needs to share the treats if asked. J. Toys, items used as toys or items that make/create sounds are not allowed in the Holding Area, on Deck or on track. Having any of these items will lead to disqualification of the handler and dog. K. Discussions between handlers sitting in the Holding Area and audience regarding the ongoing class are allowed if it does not disturb anyone on track or in Holding Area. Communication between other people and the handler on the track is allowed if it does not include the dog’s name or the pull command. L. Clothing for heat or cooling is allowed in the Holding Area when the weather requires it. Clothing to be worn on the track cannot be big or baggy as this will prevent the judge from seeing tangles etc. All clothing or other garments/clothes etc need to be shown to and approved by the Competition Head Judge. M. Video footage, if available, can be used in decision making if ruling is disputed. N. It is allowed to use two judges in a weight-class. But if this is done in one weight-class at the competition, it must be done in every weight-class that day. O. No other dogs are allowed in front of the finish line whilst a dog is pulling. This includes dogs belonging to audience members. P. Examples of warnings and disqualifications: - Aggressive behavior by dogs will lead to disqualification. Examples of aggressive behavior are, but not exclusive to, biting or trying to bite. - Violence is not tolerated at any point and will lead to an immediate disqualification. - Unsportsmanlike behavior at any instance, before, during and/or after competition will result in disqualification. - All uncontrolled dogs will be disqualified. - Having treats and/or toys on Deck or on track will lead to disqualification. - Baiting will result in a warning.
Procedure for a correct pull A. The cart is to be pulled from the start line over the finish line within 60 seconds. If the cart is moving and 60 seconds have passed, the pull will be allowed if the cart is continuously moving after 60 seconds have passed. If the cart stops after 60 seconds has passed and the cart has not crossed the finish line, the pull is not approved and will be classified as a non-pull. The 60 second count begins when the handler has passed the finish line/front axle of cart or when the dog starts to move. B. The handler has 2x30 seconds to prepare the dog, including having the dog sit/stand/lay still. After the first 30-second period a warning will be given. The second 30-second period will continue counting continuously. If the second 30-second period is passed, a second warning is given and the pull will count as a time out/no pull and the last approved pull will be the registered pull and the dog is out of the competition. C. When ready the handler will make eye-contact with the judge and await the start signal. A start signal will not be given if there is contact between handler and dog, if the dog repetitively barks/howls/yells or if the dog moves at the starting position. When the start signal has been given, no contact between handler and dog may occur until the handler has passed the finish line or position themselves behind the front axle of the cart. The dog may start moving before the handler has crossed the finish line/front axle of the cart. When leaving the dog, the handler walks in a normal way and pace. Walking too slow, fast or abnormal will lead to a warning and a re-start. D. If the handler has chosen to handle the dog from behind, the handler must be behind front axle of the cart before giving command to the dog. During this type of handling, neither the dog nor the cart is allowed to be touched. E. At the start the attached hook and lead must be placed straight on the ground. The lead should not be tangled or overlapping. F. On Deck is classified as part of the track and should be clearly marked. Handlers must ensure that no treats are given or held at this point. Treats discovered whilst on Deck or on track will result in immediate disqualification of the handler. G. The handler decides what weight to start with and which weight to pull. The handler has the right to pass on as many weight increments as they want to. All handlers have the right to pass until the handler stands on Deck. When on Deck the handler must either pull or drop out of the competition with the last approved pull registered as the result. H. The handler must give the dog’s leash to the cart personnel. The dog must be unleashed during the pull. The dog may compete with or without a collar, including choke collar. (Prong, weight, electric or anti bark collars are not allowed.) I. The next dog to pull must be on Deck before the cart is pulled back to the start line. If the handler and dog aren’t on Deck when the cart is pulled back a Holding Area warning will be issued and the right to move the cart is revoked. J. If the handler next in line to pull wants to move the cart sideways, the handler must announce this before the cart has been pulled back to the start line. When the handler is content with the position of the cart, the cart will be moved to the start line and will not be moved again. K. Only the handler can communicate with the dog during the pull. L. The handler is entitled to two minutes of rest between each pull, counting from the time the dog is unhooked from the cart. The judge will keep track of the time. If the handler and dog aren’t on Deck within 2 minutes a Holding Area warning will be issued. M. Slingshot is not allowed and will lead to a warning and a re-start from the place of cart when warning was given. Slingshot is when a dog clearly takes a step back and shoots forward into the harness. A slingshot can also be defined as a dog who jerk forward intensely or continuously jerk forward into the harness. The Class Judge should always take the dog’s safety into consideration when it comes to the judgement of slingshot. N. Baiting is not allowed and will lead to warning. The judge can at any time request the handler to empty pockets or open hands. O. Digging is not allowed and will lead to a warning. Re-start from the place of cart when warning was given. Digging is defined as a repetitive digging motion which can result in damaging the track. P. A tangle leads to a warning. Unhooking, untangling and re-start from the place of cart when warning was given. Unhooking is not necessary if a swivel is used on the cart and the rope isn’t twisted or tangled. A tangle is when the dog gets tangled in the equipment in a way that could potentially cause injury, tries to pull with one or more legs outside the harness, dog touching the cart, gets behind the start line or spins around. The handler has the right to point out tangle to the judge; however, the judge must approve the tangle before the handler is allowed to intervene. The judge can deny the tangle request. Time stops when tangle has been called. The time will resume once the handler has passed the finish line or the cart’s front axle, or when the dog starts moving. Q. If the equipment or the harness malfunctions during an ongoing pull, the handler has 60 seconds to repair it. If the handler cannot repair the malfunction, the handler has the right to pass the current round of pulls. If the handler manages to correct the malfunction during the pull, the pull will continue where the cart last stopped. The harness must be intact when the pull is performed. R. Glue, boots or anything that will improve the traction (i.e. grip) for the dog is not allowed. Only water can be used on paws before a pull. S. If a handler increases the cart weight without having the dog attempt to pull (e.g. asking the cart personnel to push from start), the dog will be disqualified, and no results will be registered. The handler must give the pull command, and the dog must at least try to pull on their own. The handler can at any time stop and end the pull. The last approved pull will then be the registered pull. T. If a handler crosses the finish line, touches the cart, moves in front of the cart’s front axle and/or moves back to the dog to get a warning and a re-start, the handler will be disqualified and no results will be registered. U. A handler is not allowed to attach a camera to themselves or the dog during an ongoing class, either on track or in the Holding Area. V. It is not allowed to correct the dog in the Holding Area, on or off track by jerking the collar, ear etc. Especially not at a re-start. This will result in a warning or in severe cases disqualification with no result registered. W. Examples of warnings and disqualifications: - If the handler is unable to prepare the dog within 30 seconds, the judge will give the handler a warning (Time). This counts as one warning, and a second 30-seconds period starts immediately. If the handler is still unable to prepare the dog within the second 30-seconds period, the handler will receive a second warning and will be out of the competition with the last approved pull registered. - When the judge has given the start signal, the handler is not allowed to touch the dog or the pull equipment or communicate with the dog. If communication occurs, the handler will receive a warning and a re-start is required. (e.g. eye contact, touching, talking/whistling or hand signals are all considered forms of communication). - When the handler leaves the dog, the handler must keep a normal walking speed. If the handler walks slowly to gain time, a warning will be given. The cart will be returned to the start line and a re-start is required. - If the handler touches the dog or the equipment, a warning will be given and re-start is required. - Examples of baiting; Holding of the hand in a position which indicates to the dog that handler may have treat in the hand (closed hand), putting hand in pocket to indicate to the dog that handler has treats/toys in the pocket will result in warning. - Dogs are not allowed to bite or play with the leash or harness. This will lead to a warning. - If the dog grabs the fence during the pull in attempt to gain grip, a warning will be given and re-start from where the warning was given. - The cart may not be moved unless it is caught in the fence. If the cart is caught in the fence, it must be put straight. If the cart has to be moved back to get it in position, a restart from the start line is required. - If the handler intentionally gets the dog tangled the pull will not be approved, and the handler will be disqualified.
Officials & Responsibilities A.Organizer: - Publish registration to the competition in English, other languages are optional. - Making all necessary equipment available to host the competition. - Choosing the starting order of the weight classes. (Lightest to heaviest or vice versa or raffle). - Provide P4P-lists to all competitors in every weight class. - Provide treats and water in the Holding Area. - Maintain the surface on the track between classes. - Completing and sending of all the EWPL forms to the person in charge of the competition. This includes the pull report, result report, the Competition Head Judge’s report and the vet report. - Confirming that all EWPL rules have been followed and that the dogs have not been injured during the competition. B. Competition Head Judge: - Monitoring all aspects of the event, including registration, weigh-ins and all dogs’ condition. - Confirm that all dogs are healthy and, in a condition, to participate in the competition. - Checking track and cart, according to checklist provided by EWPL. - Conduct the handlers meeting. – Making the final call on questionable judgments and decisions made before, during and after the competition. -Making notes on all disqualifications and complaints in the judge’s report and sending them to the EWPL Board. - Disqualify any handler for unsportsmanlike conduct before, during and after the competition. - Confirm that all judge apprentices have followed the EWPL rules. - Be aware of sling shots. C. Class Judge: - Keeping track of the 2x30-second periods before starting the pull. - Keeping track of the time and judging each pull. - Announcing which dog is up next to the audience and secretary. - Making notes of warnings made in Holding Area. - Enforcing the EWPL rules by giving clear instructions. - Ensure that the correct weight increments are always placed on the cart during the respective classes. – Issue holding area warnings. D. Pit Boss: - Overseeing the Holding area. - Announcing which dog is to pull next. - Keeping track of the starting list. - Escort dogs that must be walked (i.e. to pee or poop) during the competition or assign someone to accompany the handler. - Keeping track of, and lining up, the competitors for the competition to run fast and smooth. – Inform the Class Judge of actions from dogs and/or handlers that may lead to a Holding Area warning and if the Class Judge rules such a warning inform the handler in question. E. Cart personnel: - Safe loading of weights and making sure that the weights are evenly placed on the cart. - Making sure that the correct weight has been loaded at each weight increment; each increment must be announced loud and clear to the judge/secretary when completed. - Hooking on/off the dog to the cart if the handler does not wish to do that themself. - Cart personnel are not allowed to stop a dog who wants to leave, walk behind the cart, or a dog that pulls the cart backwards. The Class Judge will make this call. - Cart Personnel are not allowed to break the cart before the dog has stopped pulling and/or the Class Judge has given signal. F. Secretary: (It is up to each organizer to decide whether they want a secretary or not) - Registering the time for each dog’s pull. - Registering when a handler chooses to pass a round. - Making notes of warnings announced by the Class Judge. – Noting disqualifications or non-pulls.
Complaints A. The Competition Head Judge has the final word on all complaints. B. All complaints must be submitted in writing and must be given to the Competition Head Judge maximum 10 minutes after the weight class is finished. C. Complaints received after the end of the competition will not be accepted. D. All complaints regarding judges, judging, organizer or the competition are to be sent to the EWPL Board within a day of the competition.
Fun Pull A. Funpull is an event where handlers can learn more about competing under EWPL rules. Funpull follows the EWPL rules, although in a looser sense, e.g. the judge is allowed to give the handler tips during the pull. B. All dogs must be at least 12 months of age. C. The dog is not allowed to pull more than 5 pulls. D. The dog is not allowed to pull more than 35 p4p for lightweight classes and 25 p4p for heavyweight classes, but it’s up to each organizer to have stricter rules. E. The judge has the right to stop the pull at any time, if the judge considers the dog not ready to pull. F. The judge of a funpull event needs to be a qualified EWPL judge.
Alcohol A: Neither officials nor competitors are allowed to drink alcohol before or during the competition. Consequence will be a disqualification for the handlers concerned. Officials consequence will be discussed within the EWPL-board.
Doping Tests A. The EWPL reserves the right to perform doping tests at any competition. Tests will be notified at the handlers meeting. See section 6 for information regarding doping in the respective countries.
Dog handlers with disabilities A. A competitor with a disability must include this information when registering to the competition. B. Arrangements for disabled people should always be done so they can participate in the competition. Specific requests are to be discussed with the Competition Head Judge before the weight class begins.
Holding Area A. Holding Area must be large enough for all competitors in the on-going weight class.The Holding Area must be fenced off from the audience with a rope, tape or fence, clearly separating the Holding Area from the audience. B. The Holding Area cannot be in front of the finish line unless it is separated by a wall. C. All competitors in the current weight class must be in the Holding Area when the competition begins. If a dog is not in the Holding Area when the competition is set to begin, the dog will be disqualified and not allowed to compete. The competitors in each weight class must remain within the Holding Area while the weight-class is ongoing. D. Only dogs in the current weight class are allowed in the Holding Area. Once a dog is out of competition, the handler and the dog must leave the Holding Area. A handler that is not competing but remains in Holding Area will be given a Holding Area warning. E. If a dog must leave the Holding Area to be walked, it must be accompanied by the Pit Boss or someone appointed by the Pit Boss. A dog is not allowed to relieve themselves in Holding Area or on track. Doing so will lead to a Holding Area warning. F. Dogs cannot be left alone in the Holding Area. If a handler is competing alone with several dogs in the same weight class, the dogs must be placed in crates, where the dog is due to pull next to being the only dog not crated or use an assistant to hold the dog. G. The handler is allowed to have an assistant if space allows it. This will need to be approved by the Competition Head Judge. H. If necessary, each handler has the possibility to use a cage in the Holding Area. I. Underage handlers are required to be accompanied by an adult in the Holding Area. J. The Organizer will provide treats in the Holding Area. K. Toys are not allowed in the Holding Area. Having one will result in an immediate disqualification with no results registered. L. Handlers are allowed to bring fluid for themselves and a water bowl for the dog, but the dog is only allowed to drink the water provided by the Organizer. M. Smoking and food are prohibited in the Holding Area. Breaking this rule will lead to a holding area warning.
On Deck A. "On Deck" shall be a clearly marked area positioned before entering the track. B. Treats are not allowed in any pockets, on Deck or on the track. The treats that the handlers may have must be finished or discarded before the next pull. Breaking this rule will lead to disqualification of the handler and all the handlers’ dogs without any results registered.
Weight Pull Track A. The length must be at least 11 meters. B. The width should be between 2,5 - 6 meters. C. The track must continue at least 3 meters after the finish line. D. Distance between start line and finish line is 5 meters. E. The track must be level or uphill. F. The surface must be the same throughout the whole track, except the area behind start line which can be made in concrete to avoid bumps. G. It is allowed to use solid material on a dirt track (such as concrete or concrete slabs) at the start. Start line should be between 10-15 cm from the front edge of the concrete. Concrete must be seamlessly attached to, and level with the rest of the track. H. The surface of the track can be grass, soil, carpet or fine gravel. I. Prohibited surfaces are coarse stone, tarmac or concrete. J. Maintenance of the track is only allowed between weight classes. The start and the finish line can be painted between pulls if required. K. During an on-going weight class only repairs which prevent dangerous incidents are allowed. For example, material damages to the cart, the fence or the rails. It is not allowed to repair the track surface etc. The decision to allow for repairs will be made by the Competition Head Judge. L. All tracks must have a roof, but it need not be a permanent roof. The roof should be wider and longer than the track and may not interfere with the track itself. If a nonpermanent roof is used and becomes damaged or useless due to weather, the competition is allowed to continue if the Competition Head Judge and organizer decide to. M. The path from the finish line to the Holding Area must be fenced and separated from the audience. There is no requirement of what type of material is used, if the track and audience are separated.
Weightpull Track, Rails A. The shape of rails can be round, flat or V-shaped and must be safely secured. B. A stop/break must exist on both ends of the track (start and finish) and on both rails. C. The rails must have an incline. The incline must be 0,75-1,25%. The incline must be consistent from start to finish line. D. The distance between the rails must be 120-170 cm. E. The track must be at least 7,5 meters long, measuring from the start line. F. Maintenance of the track is only allowed between weight classes. The start and the finish line can be painted between pulls, if required. The track incline shall always be checked between each class and adjusted if needed.
Fencing for all tracks, including rails A. The track fence must be the length of the track on each side and must continue at least 2,5 meters after the finish line. B. The track fence must be at least 90 cm high. C. The track fence must be placed along the outer edges of the track. D. The track fence must be stable enough to keep in all breeds of dogs. E. Barrier towards crowd must be located at least 1 meter from the track fence. F. The size and the length of the crowd barrier should be adjusted after the size of the audience.
Cart A. The cart for classes -15 and up must be able to withstand a weight load of at least 2500 kg, where the cart itself must not weigh no more than 200 kg. B. The small cart is only to be used in weight classes -5 and -10. When the weight of the cart has reached the same weight as the main cart, the cart will be replaced with the regular/main cart. C. The small cart must be able to withstand a weight load of at least 200 kg, where the small cart itself must not weigh no more than 30 kg. D. The maximum measurements of the cart are 220 cm wide (including tires) and 240cm long. E. The cart must have 4 air-filled or solid tires. All tires must be of the same size. The maximum size of tires is up to 19.68 inches or 50 cm. All tires must have the same air pressure at the beginning of the competition and throughout the weight class. F. A spare tire must be available. If a tire breaks during the competition, the organizer is responsible for completing the competition under equal terms. G. The lead should be 120-180 cm from the front axle to where the dog is hooked on. H. The lead must be attached to the cart in V-shape. The lead must be firmly anchored in the cart and cannot be tied to the cart in the form of knots. I. The cart must be equipped with a lead or rope at the back to be able to break the cart and to return the cart to the start line. J. The lead between the cart and the dog must be made of nylon or rope. K. Attachment point on the cart so it can be moved up and down for dogs of different sizes is allowed.
Cart (Rails) A. The cart must not weigh more than 200 kg and must be able to withstand a minimum of 4000 kg. B. The cart can be wider than the rails. C. The loading platform of the cart must not be wider than 30 cm of the rails. D. The cart must be equipped with a lead that should be 120-180 cm long between the cart and to where the dog is hooked on. The lead can be V-shaped or a straight line and must be made of rope or nylon. E. The cart must be equipped with a lead at the back to break the cart and to return the cart to the start line.
Weights A. Sufficient amount of weights (at least 3500kg) must be available for the competition. All weights must be weighed and designed to facilitate proper loading. B. Weights need to be appropriate for smaller dogs in -5 and -10. C. Maximum height of loaded weights is 150 cm, measured from the ground or from track if rails. D. If maximum height is met, the tire pressure must be decreased, or the angle of the rail track must be increased.
National Championships A. National Championships are held in August or the first weekend of September. B. Each National Championship location is decided by the respective national board. C. To qualify for the National Championships, the dog must achieve the qualifying requirements set for each country. Each country determines the qualification requirements to the National Championships. The qualifying requirements must officially be reported to the EWPL Board before the season starts. D. Maximum entry fee at competitions is 40 Euros per dog per day for EWPL members.Entry fee for non-EWPL members is the choice of the organizer. Organizers can give a discount if the owner has 3 or more dogs. E. The National Championship is only open to dogs residing in the country. F. The Swedish qualification requirements for the dogs in weight classes -5, -10, -15, -20,-25, and -30 are 40 p4p. In weight classes -37, -44, -51, and +51 it's 30 p4p.The qualification needs to be achieved on a minimum of 3 different competitions, where a minimum of two qualifications must be required in Sweden. Swedish Championships can only be a one-day competition. The weight class start order must be drawn at least three days before the competition. The organizer decides in what order the dogs within the weight class start (lightest dog to heaviest dog or vice versa). Each dog has a minimum starting weight of the weight closest to their individual 15 p4p. G. The Finnish qualification requirements for the dogs in weight classes -5 -10 -15 -20 -25 and -30 are 35 p4p. In weight classes -37 -44 -51 and +51 it's 25 p4p. Finnish championships can only be a one-day competition. The qualification requirements must be achieved on at least 3 different EWPL competitions/days. The organizer decides in what order the dogs in the weight class start (lightest dog to heaviest dog or vice versa). H. The Norwegian qualification requirements for the dogs in weight classes -5 -10 -15 -20 -25 and -30 are 40 p4p. In weight classes -37 -44 -51 and +51 it's 30 p4p. The qualification requirements must be achieved on at least 2 different competitions/days. Norwegian championships can only be a one-day competition.The weight classes start order must be drawn at least three days before the competition. The organizer decides in what order the dogs within the weight class start (lightest dog to heaviest dog or vice versa). A dog that changes weight and falls into a weight class with higher p4p qualifications can still compete in the class they weigh in on the day of the championship if they have the required p4p qualifications for the lower weight class.
International Championships A. The International Championship is to be held in August/September. B. The location of the International Championship is decided at the beginning of the season, by the representatives of the EWPL countries. The International Championship cannot be held in a country with BSL (like Norway) C. Norway can host the International Championship in an EWPL country without BSL and can choose which country to organize it with (Finland or Sweden). D. The international qualification requirements: Lightweight classes: -5 -10 -15 -20 -25 -30 – minimum 40 p4p in three separate EWPL competitions. Heavyweight classes: -37 -44 -51 +51 – minimum 30 p4p in three separate EWPL competitions. E. International Championships can only be a one-day competition. F. The class winner is the dog that pulls the most weight in relation to its body weight (P4P). G. Maximum entry fee at competitions is 45 Euros per dog per day for EWPL members. Entry fee for non-EWPL members is the choice of the organizer. Organizers can give a discount if the owner has 3 or more dogs. H. Weigh-in and vet check are required for all countries at the National and International Championships. I. Each dog has a minimum start weight closest to their individual 30 p4p for lightweight classes -5, -10, -15, -20, -25, -30 and 20 p4p for heavyweight classes -37, -44, -51, +51.
National Point System A. The EWPL approves national points in each weight class. Each country is responsible for their individual points system, including counting and scoring system. B. The National Point Champion is the dog that earned the most points during the season. Points are gained from the respective national competitions governed by the EWPL. C. The EWPL Board will keep documentation of all dogs and registered results. D. Dogs can only be awarded points earned from oicial competitions sanctioned by the EWPL. E. To earn points it is required that the dog completes at least one pull in its weight class. F. Class winner: 10 points. Class second: 7 points. Class third: 4 points. Dog receives one point per obtained title. (i.e. EWP1 = 1 Point, EWP2 = 2 points.) G. The dog will receive points for titles earned (see title list in section 9). H. Each class winner in the National Championship will receive 5 bonus points. I. The points calculations are terminated following the National Championship. J. At the end of the season, if two or more dogs have equal amount of points the winner will be the dog who has the most wins in its weight class. If winnings are equal, then the comparison is done by second places etc.
International Points System A. The EWPL approves international points in each weight class. B. The International Points Champion is the dog that has earned the most points. All points received at EWPL competitions will be awarded the dog. C. Dogs can only be awarded their points from official competitions sanctioned by the EWPL. D. To earn points it is required that the dog completes at least one pull in its weight class. E. The dog will receive points for titles earned. F. Class winner: 10 points, Class second: 7 points, Class third: 4 points. Dog receives one point per obtained title. (I.e. EWP1 = 1 Point, EWP2 = 2 points.) G. Each class winner in the National Championships will receive 5 bonus points. H. If two or more dogs have equal points at the end of the season, the winner will be the dog who has the most wins in its weight class. If first places are equal, the comparison will be done by second places through the season etc.
EWPL Titles A. For carpet, natural surface and rails. P4P=Title 10 P4P=EWP 1 15 P4P=EWP 2 20 P4P=EWP 3 25 P4P=EWP 4 30 P4P=EWP 5 35 P4P=EWP 6 40 P4P=EWP 7 45 P4P=EWP 8 50 P4P=EWP 9 55 P4P=EWP 10 Etc. B. Titles achieved on rails are to be marked with an "R" on the EWPL website. Ex: EWP 11R C. The dog will only be awarded one title for each EWPL sanctioned show. D. When a dog has been awarded an EWP4-title or higher at three or more competitions, the dog will receive an EWP4 Champion (CH) title. E. If the dog has been awarded an EWP4 title or higher, at five or more competitions, the dog will receive an EWP4 Grand Champion (GR CH) title. F. If a dog for instance has two EWP5-titles and one or more EWP4-titles, the dog will receive a EWP4 CH-title. G. Champion and Grand Champion titles can only be collected per season.
(note that this information can change during the season with decisions outside of the EWPL)
Vaccination Rules & Banned Breeds A. Sweden Vaccination Policy: Click to see relevant regulations Doping Policy: Click to see relevant regulations Banned dog breeds: No breeds are illegal to travel with or import into Sweden. B. Norway Vaccination Policy: Click to see relevant regulations Vaccination when traveling to Norway: Click to see relevant regulations Banned dog breeds: American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier,Czechoslovakian Wolfdog, Dogo Argentino, Fila Braziliero, and Tosa Inu. These breeds or mixtures of these are forbidden to travel to or import to Norway. C. Finland Vaccination Policy: Click to see relevant regulations Doping Policy: Click to see relevant regulations Crop and Dock Policy: Dogs with cropped ears/docked tail will need to provide adequate documentation from an approved veterinarian. Cropped/docked dogs can only participate in European competitions. Banned dog breeds: No breed is illegal to travel to or import to Finland. More info of what is needed to travel to Finland with dogs can be found here: Click to see relevant regulations
