The Flying Disc, You and Your Dog

Some dogs were born to fly. They are the ones you see at the park leaping into the air, catching a flying disk, and savoring the joy.

The popular flying disc game, also known as Frisbee Games and Playing Frisbee, is a popular sport. In most major cities, disc dog competitions are held with dogs.

Flying discs are best played by dogs that are thin, under 50 pounds, and love retrieval. How do you teach your dog how to fly a disc? Here we will cover the basic information.

Getting Started

Do not be mistaken: the flying disc may look like a fun toy but it is actually a sporting activity. To be an excellent disc player, you need a lot of energy and endurance. Have your vet evaluate the physical condition of your dog before you start training. You will want to check your dog for potential problems that may be exacerbated by training.

You should also make sure that your dog knows at least the basic commands of obedience. This will ensure that he returns your disc and does not run off with it. Give your dog time to develop self-control and obey before you move on to disc games.

A disc that is made specifically for dogs will be the best. The best disc for the disc is a soft flexible disc with no sharp teeth, made especially for dogs.

Introduce the disc to your dog during normal playtime. Allow him to grip it with his teeth so that he becomes accustomed to it. If your dog shows interest in the disc, show enthusiasm by praising him. To begin, toss the disc at your dog’s height, like a football. You can roll the disc sideways, again like a ball. Let your dog chase the disc across the yard or room.

You can progress to the next step once your dog is comfortable chasing the disc, returning it back to you and tossing again. Toss the disc for a few yards outside, in your yard or park. Praise your dog for chasing the disc. Even if he brings the disc back to you, it’s worth incorporating training treats. Throw the disc at the same height as the dog and only for a few yards. If you want to avoid injury, throw the disc toward the animal, and not directly at the animal.

The next step is to teach your dog the proper way to retrieve the disc. Choose a location where your dog can’t accidentally run onto the road in pursuit of a disc. Preferably, choose an enclosed area. Training treats are a great way to encourage your dog to come back to you. You can use a long lead to help reel in your dog. Make sure the lead is non-tangling. Use the same command words for both bringing the dog back and commanding it to drop the disk.

You can increase your disc’s height and range as you see that your dog is getting better and more adept at retrieving, catching and returning it.

More Success Tips

  • A dog must always land on its four legs to reduce the impact on joints. Try using a hoops toy to train your dog to jump if you find that he tends to land with two legs. It will make him lift his hind legs up when he jumps in the air.
  • Do not let your dog play with the disc until you have played with him. The plastic disc you give your dog can cause damage to his teeth and force him to have them replaced frequently. It is important that the disc be in good condition to allow it to stay in your hands and fly correctly. Plus, interactive games will keep your dog interested. It is an excellent game to bond with your dog.
  • You can find disc dogs in local newspapers and online. You can search by using the terms “Frisbee Dog” or “Disc dog”, but note that most disc players refer to their sport as “disc dogs” since the Frisbee trademark is protected. Dog clubs and dog events are held all over the United States and the globe. It’s a wonderful way to bring together disc sports enthusiasts and dog lovers.
  • Be aware of how your dog feels during the game and ensure that he’s hydrated. Also, protect him from excessive sun. This is not just a game; this is an activity that requires a lot of attention. Foot pad and muscle injuries should be treated as soon as possible to prevent infection. Take a short break, move your dog to some shade, and offer him water in controlled quantities.
  • Be patient and start slowly. Don’t expect to see your dog become an overnight disc champion. Have fun.