Frisbee is a game that many Bernese Mountain Dogs enjoy. If trained well, a Bernese can even take part in competitions. In frisbee competitions, the thrower and the dog perform various long-distance catches and freestyle routines, and scores are given based on difficulty. Training a Bernese Mountain Dog to catch a frisbee is also a very good way to strengthen the bond and coordination between owner and dog.
Forms of Bernese Mountain Dog Exercise
A team made up of one person and one Bernese Mountain Dog competes in a standard-distance frisbee event. Different catches at different distances receive different point values. Competitions often also include dynamic freestyle events, where short routines are performed to music. Divisions may be based on the handler's skill and experience, and long-distance categories are sometimes divided by the handler's gender. Watching a Bernese Mountain Dog sprint, arc through the air, seize the frisbee with its teeth, and twist its body smoothly is very exciting. Many owners and their Bernese dogs now practice this sport partly because it requires little investment: all you really need is a dog, a frisbee, and an open field.
This activity places significant stress on muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints, so it carries some risk. Before training or play, it is best to take your Bernese Mountain Dog to the vet for a thorough examination. If you want the dog to compete, you will usually need a health certificate signed by a veterinarian. If you hope your puppy will become a frisbee dog, the first step is to let it grow in a relaxed way. Too much intense activity during puppyhood may harm healthy development. Make sure the Bernese Mountain Dog does not jump too much and avoid potentially traumatic movements. It is better to wait until the dog is stronger, around one year old, before starting serious training.
Bernese Mountain Dog Frisbee Training Steps
No matter what kind of competition the owner likes, or even if you only want a daily game that belongs to you and your Bernese Mountain Dog, the following steps are essential. 1. First let the dog become familiar with the frisbee. Allow the Bernese Mountain Dog to inspect and handle it freely so it gradually gets used to this toy. If needed, use treats as guidance. 2. Teach the dog to bring the frisbee back. At the start, there is no need to throw it far. You only need the dog to follow your command and return the frisbee to you. 3. Throw the frisbee toward the ground and slowly increase the distance. Rolling it along the ground allows the Bernese Mountain Dog to catch it easily without needing to jump. 4. Gradually increase the height of the frisbee in the air so the dog slowly adapts to proper landing skills and better body coordination. A useful tip is to let your Bernese watch other dogs playing frisbee. Smart dogs often learn surprisingly quickly just by observing.
Frisbee training can stimulate a Bernese Mountain Dog's prey-drive instincts, so it may chase the disc the way it would chase prey. Because of this, many Bernese dogs become overly excited during play and lose self-control, forgetting to wait before the throw. If the dog starts barking wildly before you throw the frisbee, let it rest for a while and put the frisbee away until it calms down. To protect the dog's teeth and gums, always choose a frisbee made specifically for dogs instead of a hard plastic disc designed for humans.