Sports Day With Dogs

Dogs Sports Day

Questions

  • Disk Dog
  • Obstacle course
  • Dock diving
While you might have a champion of naps sharing the sofa with you most nights, that doesn’t mean that there isn’t a secret athlete just waiting to get out. Even the biggest couch potatoes can enjoy a good run around and try out a new sport. If your pooch develops a case of the zoomies when they’re out on walks, they may need a little more physical and mental stimulation. Trying new sports together is a perfect way to bond and get out all the pent-up energy at the same time.  
Through experiencing new activities together, your canine companion relies on you to show them the ropes and help them find things that they enjoy. With some fun sports and lots of rewarding treats, you’re bound to have a great time together. 

Disk Dog

Disk Dog, also known as disc dog or Frisbee dog, is a popular canine sport where you will be astounded by your pooch’s physical agility. In this activity, dogs and their pup parents team up to perform a series of impressive tricks and catches using a flying disc. The objective is simple: for the dog to catch the disc mid-air. It’s a little more complicated than your basic game of fetch but if you can harness it with your beloved pet, it’s bound to turn a few heads as it looks just downright impressive. 

Dog playing with frisbee.
Getting started with disk dog couldn’t be easier, all you need is a lightweight doggy frisbee like the Rufus & Rosie Frisbee and a nice, wide open space. Begin by teaching them basic fetching skills and gradually introduce the concept of catching the disc in motion. With patience and practice, you'll be amazed at how quickly your pup learns to leap and soar through the air to snatch the disc. Before you know it you’ll be doing trick shots that you might not have thought were even possible.  
Disk Dog is not only a fantastic way to exercise your pooch but can also be a competitive sport. You can play it leisurely at your own pace or enter into competitions to see which dog and owner can perform the most impressive catches. Remember to prioritise safety by using appropriate equipment and ensuring that the playing area is free from hazards. 

Obstacle course

Creating an obstacle course for your furry friend is an excellent way to challenge their physical and mental abilities while providing hours of entertainment. You can set up a course using household items such as cones, tunnels, hurdles, and weaving poles, or invest in specialised agility equipment designed for dogs.

Dog standing on the bricks.
Start by introducing each obstacle to your dog individually, using positive reinforcement to encourage them to navigate through or over it. Once they’re familiar with each component, string them together to form a complete course. You can even start to time how long it takes to complete the course and watch as your pooch gets the hang of it and gradually gets quicker and masters every component.  
Obstacle courses are a great choice because of how customisable they are. They allow you to tailor the difficulty level to your dog's skill and fitness level. Whether you're looking for a fun way to keep your dog active or you're interested in competitive agility trials, an obstacle course offers endless possibilities for excitement and enrichment. Soon all of your pup parent friends will be trying to get an invite to come over and have a go at your course.  

Dock diving

Dock diving, also known as dock jumping, is a water sport that celebrates a dog's natural love for swimming and retrieving. In this sport, dogs leap off a dock into a pool of water to see who can jump the furthest. It's a fantastic way to beat the heat while providing your furry family member with a fun and challenging workout. It’s a great option for natural water babies. If you have a pet that does everything they can to avoid ever getting a little damp, this may not be the sport for them. It’s often a win with natural water babies like labradors.  

Dog jumping into water.
To get started with dock diving, you'll need access to a suitable body of water with a dock or platform for jumping. Begin by introducing them to the water gradually, allowing them to become comfortable with swimming and retrieving toys. Once they're confident in the water, encourage them to jump off the dock, using toys or treats as motivation. You’re essentially marrying together a game of fetch and swimming so if they already like both of these things, you may find yourself with a natural on your hands.  
All you need to get them started is a toy that they love to fetch that also floats on the water. Toys like the Happy Pet Floating Rope Ball make for a great option. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or a novice enthusiast, dock diving offers an exhilarating experience that strengthens the bond between you and your water-loving companion. 
Organising a sports day with your dog is not just about physical activity, it's about fostering a deeper connection and creating lasting memories together. Whether you're tossing a flying disc, navigating an obstacle course, or making a splash with dock diving, each activity strengthens the bond between you and your furry companion. Engaging in sports activities with your dog provides invaluable mental stimulation and physical exercise, contributing to their overall health and well-being. You don’t have to start playing a sport with the goal of becoming a pro, you can just have some fun with it, especially if your pooch enjoys it.  
For all the supplies you need to try out a new sport with your four-legged friend, visit us in store and online. Â