How to Train Dogs for Flyball

Flyball is a fun activity dogs can participate in to gain exercise and socialize with other dogs. The game is played with two teams of four dogs racing in relay style across a 51-foot course. The first dog must race to the Flyball box, release the trigger, fetch the ball and return to position. Started four decades ago, Flyball is now an official sport with judges, tournaments and world records. Training a dog is a great way to bond with your pet while getting it interested in the sport.

Things You'll Need

• Two tennis balls
• Dog treats or toys
• Two baby gates

Instructions

1. Take two balls and move a few feet away from your dog. Toss the first ball underhanded gently. When the dog catches the ball, give the "drop it" command. As soon as the dog drops the ball, toss another ball. This gets the dog familiar with the fast-paced action of Flyball and trains it to keep the ball securely in its mouth (dropping the ball or bobbling it can reduce Flyball points). When the dog complies, give it a treat or motivator. A variation on this is to have the two balls and toss one 5 to 6 feet up in the air. The dog will jump to catch it. Command the dog to drop the ball, then immediately toss the next one.

2. Toss a ball away from your dog and, when the dog returns with the ball, remove it from the dog's mouth and toss it away again. When the dog races back toward you with the ball, run away. When the dog catches up, play tug with the ball still in the dog's mouth (balls are the key part of Flyball and dogs must learn to love the ball and want to keep it in their mouths). When the dog continues gripping the ball without dropping it, give it a treat or motivator to reward the behavior.

3. Place a baby gate on the floor. Place your dog on one side of the gate, then walk to the side of the gate. Call to your dog, holding a treat or a favorite toy (something that will motivate the dog). When the dog jumps over the gate, give it the motivator. After the dog has successfully jumped the gate a few times, place a second baby gate on the floor, parallel to the other one with enough space for your dog in between (larger dogs will require more space). Repeat the process, encouraging your dog to jump the first gate, then with the next stride, jump the second. It may take a while to master jumping in stride, one of the key facets of Flyball. More gates may be added with time.

References

• North American Flyball Association
• Flyball Dogs web site
• Flyball Training Manual