With spring just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about getting outside and stretching your legs. If you have a dog, then chances are your dog would enjoy burning off some energy as well. The good news is that you don’t have to stick with the same old choices like jogging or playing catch.
You might be surprised at the number of options available to you when it comes to sports for your dog, and it can be difficult to narrow them down. But if you consider your dog’s personality, breed, and energy level you’ll be able to find the perfect activity for both you and your dog. Here are some of the most popular choices:
Agility Training
Agility training is suitable for dogs with a wide range of abilities. This type of training is considered to be the perfect activity for dogs with high energy levels. Even dogs that are a bit challenged when it comes to taking direction can be excellent candidates for the sport.
During agility competitions, dogs are lead through a series of obstacles in a timed setting. Obstacles such as weave poles, jumps, pauses, tunnels, and teeterboards are used. To take advantage of agility training, you don’t even need to enter formal competitions. Many owners choose to build their own courses and work with their dogs to succeed.
Flying Disc
If your dog loves to jump and catch then flying disc (Frisbee) can be an ideal option. As the handler, you will be required to work up a sweat as well, so flying disc is great for active dogs and owners. During competitions, teams are judged in events based on distance, accuracy, and other criteria. Points are used to determine the winner.
Flyball
Flyball is a great way for dogs that love balls to socialize as well as exercise. Competitions include relays where dogs release a ball from a box and then complete a course before returning the ball to the handler. The course includes the ball box as well as a series of jumps. Dogs and handlers participate in teams of at least four dogs who compete in turn. Dogs earn points and lose points for errors. The winning team finishes with the most points.
Freestyle
Freestyle is a unique and entertaining sport that requires a high degree of creativity and technical skill. Freestyle is often referred to as canine dancing, and it is easy to understand why. Skills include twists, turns, jumping, heeling, weaving, and moving in time to musical selections. Freestyle is physically demanding and requires a deep bond and understanding between the dog and the handler because routines are highly choreographed.
Participating in the right sport can be the perfect way for you and your dog to stay in shape, live up to your potential, and strengthen your bond. The above are just a few of the most popular options. There are also many sports that are uniquely well suited to specific breeds. Among these are herding, mushing, tracking, and conformance. If you are looking for something more specialized, there is no doubt something that will fit you and your dog’s needs.
At WizSmart, we understand the need to keep your dog active – the long-term health of your pup is important to us! Our company innovates so that you have a happier dog which equals a Happier You! Find out more about how to support pet owners by visiting our website.