If you have ever been fortunate enough to be entertained by a world-class canine disc team at an NFL halftime or other sporting event, then you know it takes a lot of practice to put on a show that will keep 60,000 people glued to their seats in amazement. A seasoned canine disc team performing before a roaring crowd is truly a wonder of fluidity, choreography, athletic talent and pure energy. It all starts with a great dog and a lot of practice.
When you get a dog, make sure that he is healthy, lively, friendly and energetic. Before selecting a purebred, research that breed at your public library or local book store. The information available should inform you of any health-related concerns.
Since it is imperative that your dog be healthy before attempting any strenuous disc activity, check with your veterinarian before starting out. Have your pet examined regularly. Keep your dog dewormed, heartworm free and keep all his immunizations (such as rabies, parvo, kennel cough) current. Remember, your dog can't tell you if he isn't feeling well, so you must develop the ability to access his physical and mental condition. Learn to be observant. Notice whether or not your dog is eating properly, check his stools for any discharges or worms, inspect for body odor, broken nail/tooth, etc. While petting your dog, you may feel bumps or lacerations, notice unusual hair loss, parasites, etc. These are all warning signs which should be investigated further.
To begin training, a novice canine disc competitor needs to obtain a disc that is suitable for canine play. Hyperflite has developed its K-10 line of flying discs exclusively for canine use. All K-10 discs feature patent-pending, opposed “grip strips,” designed to help a thrower maintain a good grip on the disc even when it becomes “lubricated” with the usual complement of dog slobber. Each disc in the K-10 line was developed with the canine in mind and intended to address a specific need. For example, the Hyperflite Jawz disc is an ultra-tough, puncture-resistant model designed to withstand the gnashing of canine teeth. The SofFlite, on the other hand, is extremely soft and flexible for canines with sensitive mouths. All K-10 discs fly similarly, and once you learn to throw one, you can throw them all. Hyperflite K-10 discs have been selected as the exclusive discs of the Skyhoundz Canine Disc Championships, the largest canine disc competition series in the world. Starting with the right flying disc will greatly shorten the learning curve and speed you on your way to an enjoyable and fun activity for you and your pet.
If you apply the tips and techniques discussed below, and practice regularly you will become a proficient thrower in no time at all. Learning to throw a flying disc properly is critical to your success in canine disc competitions and to your pet's safety. No matter how good your dog is, if you continually make mediocre or dangerous throws, it will be difficult for your four-legged friend to make consistent, safe catches. Therefore, when training, make learning to throw well your highest priority.
If your canine has never before had an encounter with a flying disc, it will be important to introduce the disc to him in a non-threatening way. One way to accomplish this is to use the disc as a food or water dish. Because all Hyperflite discs are made with food-safe polymers and inks, it is safe to use your Hyperflite K-10 as your dog's food or water bowl. See steps 1-3 below.
Once acquainted with the disc, your canine will now be ready to discover that his food dish is also a great toy. Begin by getting down to your dog's level. With excitement in your voice, move the disc rapidly back and forth and let your dog try and grab the disc. Once you have your dog's attention, slide or roll the disc across the ground to develop its tracking skills. If your dog chases the disc, even if only for a few feet, remember to be liberal with praise for the effort. Canines are eager to please and will respond much more quickly if they think that you are happy with their efforts.
Next, encourage your dog to take the disc out of your hand. This can be accomplished with the disc right side-up or upside-down. Do not pull the disc away from your dog once he takes it from you, instead let him have it as a reward for his efforts while you simultaneously reward your dog with praise.