CuBeens for Dogs

CuBeens - An Energetic Game Celebrating Canine Nature.
CuBeens is the only team-based precision retrieval sport for dogs that anyone can play anywhere. Like pickleball revolutionized racquet sports by being instantly accessible yet endlessly engaging,
CuBeens brings that same philosophy to dog sports. Using just CuHurl (our dual-ball thrower) and CuBalls (our standardised retrieval balls), any dog owner can start playing in minutes.

Drawing inspiration from the ancient Celtic game "Scubeens" (meaning "conquering goal"), this modern sport celebrates dogs' natural instincts while creating an inclusive environment for all skill levels, ages, and abilities.

What You Need 

• 1 CuHurl (dual-ball launcher) - the heart of the game
  
• 2+ CuBalls (bright yellow strong balls) - tournament quality
  
• Any open space 15+ meters long
  
• Something for a target (basket, hula hoop, or even a towel on the ground) 

Basic Play (Single Dog)

1. Throw: Use CuHurl to launch one CuBall 15+ meters
   
2. Retrieve: Dog fetches ball and brings it back
   
3. Score: Dog drops ball in/near target area
   
4. Repeat: Do this 3-5 times, timing the whole sequence
   
5. Win: Fastest total time wins!
   

Advanced Play (Dual Dog with CuHurl)

1. Dual Launch: Load two CuBalls in CuHurl, launch simultaneously
   
2. Team Retrieve: Both dogs race after their balls
   
3. Return Together: Both balls must reach target to complete round
   
4. Compete: Multiple teams compete for best time
   

That's it! You're playing CuBeens! 

Equipment - Designed for Everyone

CuHurl Dual-Ball Launcher

• Launches 1 or 2 CuBalls simultaneously
• Adjustable distance control (beginner to advanced)
• Ergonomic design for all handler ages/abilities
• The signature equipment that makes CuBeens unique

CuBalls (Standardized Retrieval Balls)

• Tennis ball size, extra-bright yellow colors
• Consistent bounce and durability
• Safe for all dog sizes 
• High visibility for easy tracking

Flexible Target Options:

Beginner: Towel on ground (3-meter target area)

Intermediate: Hula hoop or rope circle (1-meter target)

Advanced: CuBasket (elevated precision target)

Expert: Multiple small targets for bonus points

Field Setup - Anywhere You Want

The "Pickleball Principle" - Scalable Spaces

Backyard Play: 10m x 3m (smallest functional space)

Park Standard: 20m x 4m (most common setup)

Club Regulation: 30m x 5m (official tournaments)

Championship: 40m x 6m (advanced competition)

3-Zone Layout (All Sizes)

1. Start Zone: Where handler launches CuBalls (back 1/6 of field)
   
2. Play Zone: Open running area (middle 2/3 of field)
   
3. Target Zone: Where balls must land to be "in play" (front 1/6 of field)

Mark boundaries with anything: cones, rope, sticks, or even shoes!

Game Formats - Something for Everyone

Family Fun Format (No Pressure)

• Goal: Just have fun with your dog
• Rules: Flexible timing, any successful return counts
• Perfect for: New players, senior dogs, or just bonding time
• Equipment: CuHurl + CuBalls + any target

Recreational Format (Casual Competition)

• Goal: Friendly competition with basic timing
• Rules: 3-round standard, loose target requirements
• Perfect for: Weekend warriors, dog park groups
• Equipment: CuHurl + CuBalls + simple target + phone timer

Competitive Format (Serious Sport)

• Goal: Precise competition with official scoring
• Rules: 5-round championship, strict target requirements
• Perfect for: Clubs, tournaments, rankings
• Equipment: Full CuBeens kit + official timing + judges

Dual-Dog Format (The CuHurl Advantage)

• Goal: Showcase teamwork and CuHurl's unique dual-launch
• Rules: Two dogs, simultaneous launch, cooperative or competitive scoring
• Perfect for: Multi-dog households, club competitions
• Equipment: CuHurl + 4+ CuBalls + dual targets

Accessibility - Truly for Everyone

Dog Accessibility

Any Size: Field dimensions scale down for small breeds

Any Age: Modified rules for puppies and senior dogs

Any Ability: Accommodations for dogs with disabilities

Any Temperament: Beginner formats work for nervous or reactive dogs

Handler Accessibility

Any Age: Kids can use CuHurl easily, seniors get seated options

Any Mobility: Wheelchair accessible, shorter throwing distances available

Any Experience: Zero experience required to start

Any Budget: Basic equipment gets you playing immediately

Universal Design Features

• Visual: Bright CuBalls work for dogs with vision issues
• Physical: CuHurl reduces strain for handlers with arm/shoulder issues
• Cognitive: Simple rules easy to remember and teach
• Social: Scales from solo play to large group competitions

Level 1: Backyard Beginner

• Space: Your backyard or local park
• Equipment: CuHurl + 2 CuBalls + towel target
• Goal: Learn basic game, have fun with your dog
• Time: 15 minutes of play

Level 2: Park Recreational

• Space: Larger park area or community space
• Equipment: CuHurl + 4 CuBalls + hula hoop target + timer
• Goal: Compete with friends, improve times
• Time: 30-45 minutes including multiple rounds

Level 3: Club Competitive

• Space: Designated CuBeens field with boundaries
• Equipment: Full CuBeens kit + official scoring
• Goal: Join league, earn rankings, qualify for championships
• Time: 1-2 hour sessions with multiple teams

Level 4: Championship Elite

• Space: Regulation championship field
• Equipment: Professional timing systems + judges
• Goal: Regional/national competition, titles and recognition
• Time: Full tournament days
  

Competition Progression Path

Qualification System

• Recreational → Competitive: Complete 3 recreational tournaments
• Competitive → Elite: Top 25% finish in competitive division
• Maintain Level: Participate in minimum 2 tournaments per season

Tournament Formats:

• Drop-In Friendly: 30% of spots reserved for same-day registration
• League Integration: Season points count toward regional championships

Virtual Competition: Submit video times for remote participation

Basic Scoring (Recreational)

• Time: Start when first CuBall launches, end when last ball reaches target
• Penalties: +5 seconds for missed targets or rule violations
• Winner: Lowest total time after 3 or 5 rounds

Handicap System (Competitive)

• Qualification Round: Each dog/team runs solo for baseline time
• Handicap Calculation: Time difference from fastest baseline distributed across tournament rounds
• Fair Competition: Ensures every skill level can compete meaningfully
• Example: If your dog is 10 seconds slower in qualifying, you get 10 seconds subtracted from your tournament time per round
  

Penalties and Infractions

Time Penalties:

• Invalid Throw: +5 seconds
• Missed Basket: +5 seconds
• Boundary Violation: +3 seconds
• Handler Interference: +10 seconds

Disqualification Offenses:

• Unsportsmanlike conduct
• Dog aggression or safety concerns
• Equipment tampering
• Repeated rule violations

Dual-Dog Scoring Options:

Cooperative: Both dogs must complete before round ends (teamwork emphasis)

Competitive: Dogs scored individually in head-to-head format (speed emphasis)

Relay: Dogs alternate rounds (endurance emphasis)

Timing Precision  

Official Timing Rules

• Start: Timer begins when first CuBall leaves CuHurl launcher
• Stop: Timer ends when final CuBall enters target zone
• Dual-Dog Rules:
• Cooperative Format: Both balls must reach target to stop timer
• Competitive Format: Each dog timed separately, best combined time wins
• Incomplete Retrieval: +30 seconds penalty if any ball fails to return

Target Zone Definition

• Basic: CuBall must completely cross target boundary
• Precision: For elevated targets (CuBasket), ball must remain in target for 3 seconds
• Handler Assistance: Handlers may guide dogs to target but cannot touch CuBalls

Week 1: Basic Fetch

• Day 1-2: Dog learns to chase CuBall launched by CuHurl
• Day 3-4: Dog learns to bring ball back to general area
• Day 5-7: Dog learns to drop ball near target
• Equipment: CuHurl + 1 CuBall + large target area
  

Week 2: Precision Return

• Day 1-3: Make target area smaller and more specific
• Day 4-5: Practice with distractions (other people, dogs nearby)
• Day 6-7: Introduction to timing and basic competition format
• Equipment: CuHurl + 2 CuBalls + medium target

Week 3: Competition Ready

• Day 1-2: Practice full 3-round competition format
• Day 3-4: Work on consistency and speed
• Day 5-7: Ready for first recreational tournament!
• Equipment: CuHurl + 4 CuBalls + small target + timing

Advanced: Dual-Dog Training

• Week 4: Parallel running without interference
• Week 5: Simultaneous ball recognition and retrieval
• Week 6: Competition format with two dogs
• Equipment: CuHurl + 6 CuBalls + dual targets

Option 1: Cu Basket Training

• Start with large, low basket
• Place treats around/in basket initially
• Gradually raise basket height as dog improves
• Practice "drop" command with treats

Option 2: Ground Circle Training (Recommended for Beginners)

• Create large (2-meter) circle initially
• Reward any ball placement within circle
• Gradually shrink circle size as dog improves
• Much easier for dogs to understand than elevated targets
  

Option 3: Handler Return Training (Easiest Start)

• Dog simply returns ball to handler's hands
• Most natural behavior for dogs
• Great confidence builder for nervous dogs
• Can progress to other targets later

Common Training Challenges

• Ball Guarding: Use two-ball method, never chase the dog
• Distraction: Start in quiet areas, gradually add distractions
• Drop Reluctance: Teach "drop" with treats before starting game
• Lack of Interest: Try different ball types/sizes, ensure adequate play drive

Breed-Specific Considerations

High-Energy Breeds (Border Collies, Australian Shepherds)

• May need additional mental challenges
• Consider longer distances or multiple balls
• Excellent for advanced competition

Sight Hounds (Greyhounds, Whippets)

• May prefer straight-line chasing over precision returns
• Consider larger target areas initially
• Often excel once they understand the game

Brachycephalic Breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs)

• Shorter distances to prevent overheating
• Frequent water breaks essential
• Focus on fun over speed

Small Breeds (Chihuahuas, Terriers)

• Smaller field dimensions recommended
• Lighter, smaller balls may be needed
• Often surprising competitive despite size

Working Breeds (Labs, Golden Retrievers)

• Natural retrievers, often pick up game quickly
• May become overly enthusiastic - work on controlled returns
• Excellent for beginners to learn alongside

Herding Breeds (Corgis, Australian Cattle Dogs)

• May try to "herd" the ball rather than retrieve
• Focus on direct path training
• Often very competitive once engaged

5-Week Season Format

Week 1: Skills assessment and team formation

Week 2-4: Regular season play (2 rounds per week)

Week 5: Championship tournament and celebration

Flexible Participation

Drop-in Play: Show up when you can, casual format

Team Registration: Committed weekly participation

Tournament Only: Join just for championship events

Practice Groups: Non-competitive skill building

Club Requirements (Minimal Barrier to Entry)

• Space: Any suitable field space
• Equipment: 2+ CuHurl sets, 12+ CuBalls, basic timing
• People: 4+ teams (can be just 4 dogs and handlers!)
• Officials: 1 person who knows the rules

Pre-Play Requirements

• Health Check: Visual assessment for limping, excessive panting, or distress
• Vaccination: Current records for group play
• Water: Always available, mandatory breaks every 15 minutes
• Temperature: No competition above 25°C (77°F) without cooling stations
• Surface: Mandatory field inspection for hazards before each session
• Rest Periods: Minimum 5-minute break between rounds for each dog

Equipment Standards

• CuBall Inspection: Check for cracks/damage before each session
• CuHurl Maintenance: Weekly safety check for tournament equipment
• Backup Equipment: Minimum 2 spare CuBalls and 1 backup CuHurl per event

During Play Safety

• Boundary Safety: Clear field of hazards, secure boundaries
• Dog Monitoring: Watch for stress signals, overexertion
• Equipment Safety: Regular CuHurl and CuBall inspection
• Emergency Plan: First aid kit, emergency contacts, nearby vet info

Special Considerations by Breed

Brachycephalic (Flat-faced): Shorter distances, frequent breaks, temperature awareness

Giant Breeds: Gentle on joints, avoid hard stops, modified targets

Senior Dogs: Reduced distance and intensity, extra rest time

High Drive Breeds: May need management to prevent overexertion

Disability Accommodations

• Visual Impairment: Audio cues and tactile boundary markers available
• Mobility: Seated throwing positions and shortened distances pre-approved
• Cognitive: Simplified scoring options and extended time limits

Multi-Language Support

• Core Commands: Start/stop signals in participant's preferred language
• Rules Translation: Basic rule summaries available in 5 languages
• Cultural Adaptation: Regional variations approved for local customs

Technology Integration

Digital Scoring

• CuBeens App: Optional smartphone timer and score tracking
• QR Codes: Quick access to rules and tutorial videos at events
• Social Sharing: Built-in photo/video capture for social media

Remote Participation

• Video Submission: Standardized video requirements for remote timing
• Virtual Leagues: Online leaderboards for isolated players
• Training Modules: Progressive skill-building through app-based challenges

Age Divisions

• Puppy (6-18 months): Shorter distances, more time, focus on fun
• Adult (18 months - 7 years): Standard competition rules
• Senior (7+ years): Modified distances and timing
• Super Senior (10+ years): Comfort-focused rules

Size Categories

• Small (Under 25 lbs): Shorter field options, lighter equipment considerations
• Medium (25-60 lbs): Standard equipment and field size
• Large (60-100 lbs): Standard rules
• Giant (100+ lbs): Modified equipment if needed for comfort

Skill Levels

• Family Fun: Non-competitive, participation focus
• Novice: First 6 months, extended time limits
• Recreational: Casual competitive play
• Competitive: Serious tournament play with rankings
• Elite: Championship qualifiers and title holders

Equipment Standards & Product Integration

CuHurl Specifications

• Launch Mechanism: Dual-ball capability with single-ball option
• Distance Control: Adjustable power for different skill levels
• Safety Features: Non-slip grip, rounded edges, lightweight design
• Durability: Weather-resistant materials, tournament-tested
• Accessibility: Easy operation for all ages and physical abilities

CuBall Specifications

• Size: Standard ball size (2.5-2.7 inches diameter)
• Weight: Consistent 2.0-2.2 oz for predictable flight
• Color: High-visibility yellow bright color
• Durability: Puncture-resistant, maintains bounce through tournament play
• Safety: Non-toxic materials, safe if chewed

Starter Kit Recommendations

Basic Kit (€XX): 1 CuHurl + 4 CuBalls + target options + rules

Club Kit (€XX): 2 CuHurls + 12 CuBalls + boundary markers + timer + rules

Tournament Kit (€XX): 4 CuHurls + 24 CuBalls + professional targets + timing system + complete rules package

Achievement Levels

CuBeens Rookie: Complete first recreational tournament

CuBeens Player: Participate in 3+ tournaments

CuBeens Competitor: Win recreational division

CuBeens Champion: Win competitive division

CuBeens Master: Multiple championship wins

CuBeens Legend: Regional/national recognition

Special Recognition:

Team Spirit Award: Best sportsmanship and community building

Breakthrough Performance: Most improved over season

Veteran Champion: Senior dog division winners

Perfect Partnership: Handler-dog teams showing exceptional teamwork

The CuBeens Philosophy

"All for Home" - The Celtic Spirit Lives On

Just as the ancient Celtic game "Scubeens" brought communities together in celebration of skill and teamwork, CuBeens carries forward that spirit of inclusive competition and joyful participation.

Core Values

Accessibility: Every dog and handler can participate

Community: Building connections through shared love of dogs

Wellness: Promoting healthy activity for dogs and handlers

Joy: Fun comes first, competition second

Growth: Supporting skill development at every level

The Pickleball Principle Applied

Like pickleball transformed racquet sports by lowering barriers to entry while maintaining competitive depth, CuBeens does the same for dog sports:

• Easy to Learn: Basic rules explained in minutes
• Quick to Start: Play with minimal equipment in any space
• Scalable Challenge: Grows with your skill level
• Social Connection: Builds community around shared activity
• Inclusive Design: Accommodates all ages, abilities, and experience levels

Getting Started Tomorrow

For Individual Dog Owners

1. Order: CuHurl + 4 CuBalls starter kit
2. Practice: 15 minutes in your backyard or local park
3. Connect: Find local players through CuBeens community platform
4. Play: Join casual games or start your own group
5. Compete: Enter recreational tournaments when ready

For Dog Communities

1. Organize: Gather 4+ interested dog owners
2. Space: Identify suitable play area (park, field, large yard)
3. Equipment: Pool resources for club kit or individual kits
4. Schedule: Set weekly play times
5. Grow: Invite others, start tournaments, build the sport

For Businesses (Pet Stores, Dog Daycares, Trainers)

1. Demo: Host CuBeens demonstration events
2. Sell: Retail CuHurl and CuBalls equipment
3. Host: Organize tournaments and leagues
4. Train: Offer CuBeens training classes
5. Community: Become local hub for the sport

Final Thoughts

CuBeens isn't just a dog sport - it's a celebration of the bond between humans and dogs, packaged in an accessible, engaging format that anyone can enjoy. Whether you're throwing a CuBall in your backyard for the first time or competing for a national championship, the spirit remains the same:

dogs doing what they love best, with the people they love most.

The CuHurl and CuBalls aren't just equipment - they're the tools that unlock this experience for everyone. Just as a pickleball paddle opens up that world of sport, the CuHurl opens up the world of precision retrieval competition.

Ready to play? Grab your CuHurl, load up those CuBalls, and discover why CuBeens is the future of dog sports.

"Easy to Learn, Fun to Master, Accessible to All"

These rules celebrate the heritage of the ancient Celtic game "Scubeens" while creating a modern, inclusive sport that showcases the natural abilities and joy of dogs in competition.

The spirit of "All for Home" lives on in every CuBeens match.