Have you heard of flirt poles for dogs? They’ve become increasingly popular in recent years! These are exercise toys, which are perfect for all dogs. However, dogs who have plenty of energy will especially benefit from flirt pole exercises!
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What is a Flirt Pole for Dogs?
A flirt pole is just what it sounds like! This is an exercise tool that includes a pole with a long string or rope attached to the end of the pole. On the other end of the rope is a lure or a toy, which is extremely attractive to a dog.
Most flirt poles are between three to five feet long. The shorter poles work better for smaller dogs, while the longer poles are best for medium- to large-sized dogs.
When you first see a flirt pole, you may think it looks like a fishing pole. And you’re not wrong! The flirt pole just doesn’t have a hook attached!
What is the Purpose of a Flirt Pole?
The flirt pole is a great way to provide exercise and mental stimulation for your dog. And it’s another way to have fun together, too!
You could think of the flirt pole as a type of game to play with your dog. This game may last from 10-20 minutes or so until your fur baby gets tired out.
Not only does the flirt pole provide your dog with great cardio exercise, but it’s also great for muscle conditioning and strengthening. You can also use the flirt pole as an exercise warmup for your dog to help prevent injuries before jogging or doing other strenuous exercises.
Some people also use the flirt pole to train their dogs. It’s possible to use the pole to teach your dog new cues, behaviors, and more.
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Ask a Vet Live NowWhat are the Benefits of Flirt Pole Exercises for Dogs?
The flirt pole provides many benefits for your dog’s exercises, including:
- A great method to wear out dogs that have a lot of energy.
- Can be used for a short time and still effectively wear off the dog’s energy.
- Helps the dog to have fun chasing “prey.”
- The flirt pole is an excellent way to strengthen and condition muscles.
- Builds a bond between you and your dog as you both have fun together.
- Can be used for training a dog to leave, drop it, wait, stay, and more.
- Provides a dog with the mental stimulation they need.
- Improves a dog’s coordination.
- Doesn’t require the pet parent to use up too much energy.
As you can see, a flirt pole provides so many benefits for your dog! What’s more, if you’re short on time or don’t have the physical energy to keep up with your dog, it’s still possible to give him a short workout that engages his mind and uses up energy at the same time.
These are the reasons flirt poles have become so popular with pet parents and their dogs!
Are There Times When a Flirt Pole isn’t Recommended?
Yes, there are times when it’s best not to use a flirt pole. Avoid using a flirt pole with dogs who have any type of injury. If your dog doesn’t enjoy this game, then never force him to play it. Finally, avoid playing this game with dogs who become too stimulated. In that case, the dog may not be able to settle down for quite a while when you’re done playing.
What to Look for in a Flirt Pole
When it comes to finding the best flirt pole for your dog, there are some considerations to keep in mind. For one thing, the pole and rope must be the right size and length. The pole and rope should fit your dog’s size. You don’t want the pole to be too short, as this could make your dog lose interest. On the other hand, if the pole’s too long, then it will be too difficult for you to use, and your dog won’t have much fun, either.
For most dogs, a 48” flirt pole with a rope between 12” and 24” long will be a good fit.
Also, look for flirt poles with the following:
- More than one lure: this way, your dog will have a variety of lures to chase. He won’t get bored chasing the same one over and over.
- High-quality pole: only buy a pole that’s high-quality. This means the pole should be durable and able to stand up to your dog’s pulling, with a handle that will not break.
- Collapsible handle: you’ll have a flirt pole that’s easier to store if the handle collapses. It’s also easier to adjust the length of the handle when using it in different spaces, such as inside or outside.
Rules for Playing Flirt Pole Games
Just as there are rules for other games, the flirt pole also comes with a set of rules. Here are some of the main rules for you and your dog to follow when playing with the flirt pole:
1). Your dog should lay down and look at you but leave the toy alone. He should wait and be told to get the toy before he begins chasing it.
2). You start the game with a cue, such as “get it.”
3). Try to keep the toy out of your dog’s reach for a short time, then then allow him to catch it and play with it.
4). Your dog can pull on the toy until you tell him to “drop it.”
5). At this point, it’s probably a good idea to have your dog stay down for a little bit. This will instill some calm before you start the game again.
6). Change up the direction you pull the toy. This way, your dog will go in more than one direction, which is the way he’ll gain more strengthening and conditioning of his muscles.
7). If your dog becomes too wild, grabs the toy before you give the cue, jumps on you, etc., then it’s time to take a break. Don’t start again until your dog is calm and listening to you.
So, there you have it! Flirt poles are a great way to have fun and provide your dog with the exercise and mental stimulation he needs. Just remember to buy a pole that fits your dog’s size and one that’s sturdy and has several different lures. This way, you and your dog will have many hours of fun together!
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Tom
Tom has always loved to write since he was little - he wanted to be either a writer or a veterinary doctor, but he ended up being a professional writer while most of his works are based on animals. He was born in San Francisco but later moved to Texas to continue his job as a writer. He graduated from the University of San Francisco where he studied biotechnology. He is happily married and a soon to be father!
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