Dogsey

LOS ANGELES (AP) - The Shih Tzu is a whirl of fur on a course studded with obstacles, flying through tunnels, leaping over bars, scrambling up bridges and zigzagging through poles as its owner tears alongside, calling out commands and flashing hand signals. At the finish line, there are hugs, treats and lots of slobber.

Linda Harper of San Diego and her Shih Tzu named Fame spend every weekend on the road competing in agility races, the fastest growing dog sport in the United States that is most popular with older pet owners. Harper, 67, says the whirlwind contests help her and her dogs stay young and fit.

The American Kennel Club surveyed competitors last year, and 50 percent said they were over 51 years old. Of those, about 20 percent said they were over 60.