One day your puppy will spin, sprint and jump with other elite competitors—but right now they need a strong nutritional and training foundation to start. Use the following tips for your agility, dock diving, canicross or disc dog champion in the making.
KEY MILESTONES FOR YOUR PUPPY
EXPOSURE & SOCIALIZATION
Now’s the time to expose your puppy to the outdoor world, as well as other dogs and people as they set the foundation for a life of competition. Keep socializing run times short, regular and less intense. Remember to let them romp around as puppies to start.
INTRODUCING SKILLS
Introduce them to water, competition fields and public environments. Slowly introduce skills needed for their future competitive endeavors, without providing any of the physical risks for puppies’ growing bones, joints and muscles. You can begin conditioning to help them develop strength and stimulate their mind and body.
STARTING ACTIVITY
Begin teaching your adult dog to perform specific tasks related to agility, dock diving, scent work or whichever competition they will go on to gold-medal in. Deciding when to start training will depend on your puppy’s breed and behavioral training foundation. Consult your veterinarian before beginning a training program.
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