Week 4 – Elevation & Control

Video Submission Deadline is Wednesday April 8, 2026 at 5:00 PM Pacific.

Versatility Cup – Week 4 Challenge

Precision Under Pressure: Elevation & Control

Week 4 raises the bar—literally. This challenge tests your dog’s ability to work elevated odor, maintain independence, and demonstrate clear communication under increased difficulty.

Run 1: Urban Locating

Urban Challenge Game 6 – Roll of the Dice

This run combines:

  • Urban Challenge Game 1: Distance
  • Urban Challenge Game 5: Silence

All Urban Challenge Rules Apply, including:

  • Search area size requirements
  • Hide placement standards

Modifications for this challenge:

  • Primary quarry must be elevated to 48″
  • False quarry must be elevated to 36″
  • Include:
    • 1 food distractor (must be contained)
    • 1 toy distractor
    • 1 neutral distractor

Time:

  • 2:00.0 course time
  • This run will be judged as Urban Challenge Game 6

Additional Requirement:

  • The distance line must be clearly defined in the search area video

Handling:

  • May be completed on or off lead

Run 2: Trailing & Locating

Level III Standard with Modifications

This run follows the structure of a Trailing & Locating Level III search.

Modifications for this challenge:

  • Primary hide must be elevated to 48″
  • False quarry must be elevated to 36″
  • Include:
    • 1 food distractor (must be contained)
    • 1 toy distractor
    • 1 neutral distractor

Time:

  • 4:00.0 course time

Handling:

  • Judged as a Trailing & Locating Level III run
  • On or off lead is permitted (exception to standard rules)

What We’re Looking For

  • Clear odor commitment at elevation
  • Thoughtful handling and spacing
  • Strong independent problem solving
  • Clean, confident final response

Reminders

  • Ensure your video meets all submission standards (full area view, continuous recording, etc.)
  • Distractors should be clearly defined and appropriate
  • Elevated hides should be safe and secure

Final Thought

Elevation changes everything—odor behavior, handler timing, and dog commitment. Trust your dog, give them space, and let them work.