NEW! ANTI SKID BOTTOM!
Active Play Everyday
Improve your dog’s dynamic balance, independent limb awareness and coordination with FitPAWS® Balance Pods.
NEW Anti-Skid BOTTOM!
Great For:
• Stack Training Coordination
• Independent Limb Awareness
• Dynamic Balance Challenge
You can arrange the pods with flat side down for more stabilization or flat side up for more balance challenge.
Expand Your Dog’s Playground
GETTING STARTED
For advanced core strength & balance training, begin by introducing your dog to the Pods positively and then place them on the floor in the approximate foot position of your dog. Begin by asking your dog to place his individual front feet on the individual pod. You may need to physically place the feet with your hands. Positively reinforce this action with praise or treats. Once he is comfortable with the front feet on the front pods, place his individual back feet on each individual pod. Positively reinforce this action as well. Once he is comfortable on the pods, begin by offering him treats to encourage small head movements to help with balance. Encouraging him to lift his head up will encourage more weight bearing on the rear. Encouraging him to place his head down will encourage more weight bearing on the front. Turning side to side will encourage weight bearing on each individual side. Advanced exercises include gradual weight shifting while the dog is standing on the pods – gently give the dog a little pressure on each side and then from front to back to encourage weight shifting. Additional advanced exercises include lifting one limb at a time for a few seconds to encourage the dog to place weight on the three remaining legs.
For stacking training, begin by placing the dog on the pods as stated above. The pods should be positioned in the desired stacked position for each individual dog. Once the dog is stacked and all four feet are placed on the pods, encourage the dog to maintain the position by utilizing treats or bait. Begin with thirty seconds and work up to ten sets. The stacking will encourage proper balance and core strength in the performance and conformation dog. This will help maintain a good solid back posture and top line. The stationary activity will promote balance and strength and assist in the training of dogs. This may be started on puppies when beginning their handling experience. The soft texture of the pods allows for a kinder surface and allows more flexibility in their stance while working on their posture.