Doggo 108

What is a figure-of-eight?

A walk where the path traces out two or more separate closed regions, with at least one crossover between them. The classic shape looks like the number 8 or the infinity symbol — but Doggo 108 also accepts more elaborate variations under the same label.

Key markers we look for:

• Start and finish are within 50 metres of each other
• At least two enclosed regions, each at least 2,500 m²
• The path crosses itself at one or more points
• Total walking distance is at least 200 metres

Real-world examples: a walk that loops around one block, crosses a road, then loops around the next block. A figure-of-eight around two adjacent ponds. A walk through two parks with a path joining them.

What does not count as a figure-of-eight?

• A single loop with a small protrusion. Each lobe must enclose at least 2,500 m². A loop with a little spur sticking out doesn't qualify — the spur isn't big enough to be a second loop.
• An out-and-back where the return path crosses the outbound path once. Crossings happen; they only make a figure-of-eight if both sides enclose meaningful area.
• A walk where one of the two enclosed areas is too small (under 2,500 m²). The smaller lobe gets filtered out and the walk is classified as a single loop instead.
• An open-ended walk that doesn't return to the starting point. Same 50 m closure rule applies — finish near where you started or the walk is rejected.

FAQ

Do the two loops need to be the same size?

No. Doggo 108 records each loop's area separately. One loop can be much larger than the other and the walk still counts as a figure-of-eight.

Do the loops need to be in opposite directions — one clockwise, one counterclockwise?

No. Either direction works for either loop. (A naturally-walked figure-of-eight does tend to have opposite rotations because of the way the path crosses, but the algorithm doesn't require it.)

What if I walk three, four, or more loops?

That still counts as a figure-of-eight as far as the daily shape challenge is concerned — Doggo 108 calls anything with two or more loops a figure-of-eight. See the Complex Shapes page if you'd like to read about the more elaborate possibilities.

Where does the crossover need to be?

Anywhere along the path. The middle is most natural, but the algorithm doesn't care — the crossover can be at the start, end, or anywhere in between.

Can the two loops be side-by-side rather than the classic vertical figure-of-eight?

Yes. Side-by-side, stacked, at an angle — as long as both loops are large enough and the path crosses itself, it counts.

Why is figure-of-eight harder to walk on purpose?

Most everyday walks naturally fall into out-and-back or single-loop shapes. Tracing a figure-of-eight takes planning: you need a route with two distinct loopable areas and a crossing point between them. Worth the effort on figure-of-eight day though — high satisfaction when it lands cleanly.