Disc Sports: A fun way to stay active and bond with your dog in the summer months.
By Nicole Vaughn
Photo by Lianne Matieshin Photography
Does your dog enjoy chasing plastic or fabric discs, or do you think they might?
Let’s check out the world of dog disc sports!
Competing in disc dog sports can be an excellent training, bonding, and social activity. Commonly offered competitions across the prairies include K9 Frisbee Worldwide League (often referred to as Toss N Fetch), and UpDog (including Bite Club). All of these competitions are beginner friendly!
Some new players might find Toss N Fetch one of the easier games to get started in as it is most like a regular game of fetch, plus it is possible to start your own squad to play if there isn’t a club nearby. UpDog offers a variation of that game in Throw N Go, plus a variety of other games, many of which have increasing levels of difficulty and may require more dynamic handler and dog movements. A few UpDog games even include agility obstacles. Both organizations allow dogs to play chasing “rollers,” so even if your pal doesn’t have big hops and prefers to chase discs rolling on the ground you can still get in on the fun! You do want to be sure a pup’s growth plates are closed (something that might not happen until around 24 months of age, depending on breed or mix) before asking them to leap for discs or over jumps.
On the topic of safety, using dog safe discs (ex. Hyperflight or Hero brand) is important! Harder plastics not intended for use by dogs tend to break apart and the shards can be very sharp. Dog toy discs with holes in the middle may be fun for tugging, but can quickly turn into tripping hazards when your dog is running. Dog-safe discs come in a variety of materials, sizes, and weights depending upon what you and your dog prefer, playing conditions, and what games you’re into. You will likely want to get in touch with a local club or specialty vendor, such as Revel’s Disc Emporium in MB, for help making your selections.
There are a number of local clubs across the prairies which can help you get started. Although not a complete listing, the following clubs all have an on-line presence and can be contacted for more information on classes to competitions: Calgary Disc Dog Club, Border City Dog Sports, Saskatoon Disc Dogs, Regina Disc Dog Club, 4LimbGym, Encore Disc Dog Club, Good2Go Dogsports, River City Disc Dogs, Crocus Obedience & Kennel Club, and Hopeful Disc Dogs.
In closing, whether you and your pup are brand new to disc, or you have a seasoned pro at fetching discs at the park, there’s a place for you in this fun and fast-growing competitive sport!
