Like people, not all dogs are the same. So when a giant mastiff named Zeus entered an agility competition, let’s just say he wasn’t quite as quick and agile as some of the other canine participants.
Video footage of Zeus trying to conquer the obstacle course has been watched millions of times online (and for good reason). While he might not exactly be a speed demon – you’ll soon discover why he became a “crowd favorite!”
The event took place at the Rocky Mountain Cluster Dog Show in Colorado.
Agility competitions contain a variety of obstacles that dogs must successfully get through, all while the clock is ticking. Incorporating speed is typically key if participants want to win the race. But when it comes to Zeus, he was a bit more about being “slow and steady.” (And that’s okay!)
Ready, set, go!
In the video, the first obstacle Zeus must complete is a tunnel. He doesn’t just dive right in though. He actually pauses for a moment before his handler is able to coax him in.
The funniest thing is when he gets out. Instead of running to the next obstacle, the massive pooch takes his sweet time.
Zeus has the audience going wild.
A mastiff might not be the first dog to come to mind when you think agility competition, however, Zeus is definitely entertaining to watch! Like a champ, he slowly jumps over the hurdles one by one without knocking them over. You can tell by all the cheering that people are rooting for the “underdog.”
Viewers have left numerous comments on YouTube that are both supportive and light-hearted. One person wrote:
“That’s great. He’s just showing everyone what “agility” looks like in slow motion. I give him a 10.”
Somebody else commented:
“I love his “I’ll get there, when I get there” attitude…LOL”
It’s time for some weaving.
Zeus follows his energetic handler to the weave poles, which from the outside, seems like a difficult obstacle for such a big pooch! Yet, like with everything else – he takes them on slowly and just one at a time.
There are specific dog breeds that make excellent contenders in these types of competitions. The Petful website included border collies, Russell terriers, and Australian shepherds on their “Top 10 Dog Agility Breeds” list. As for dogs that might not be so successful in the area, they mention Great Danes and mastiffs.
Ahh, man…another tunnel?
Surely Zeus would have preferred a nap, but he dips into the tunnel and works his way through.
Near the end, he gets a slight kick in his step.
Zeus once again has to complete a series of hurdles. Only this time, he goes a tiny bit quicker. (Go, Zeus, go!) Even though he ends up knocking over one of the bars, it’s still pretty impressive for a dog breed where males can range between 160-230 pounds.
The mastiff receives a well-deserved round of applause from the crowd.
Overall, it takes Zeus a minute and a half to complete the course. Although his time didn’t likely earn him the first-place trophy, once you see him in action – you may understand why he still won so many hearts!
Press play on the video below to see lovable Zeus go at his own pace in the agility competition. Can we get this dog a bone?
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