Flirt pole wait for dogs: how to play
The lure flies past and your dog holds a wait until you say "Get it". Top-level impulse control.
- Time
- 5 min
- Energy
- High
- Space
- Outdoors
You'll need
- flirt pole
Set up
Your dog plays Flirt pole calmly and releases the lure well.
How to play
Ask for a sit or down with the lure lying still on the ground.
Say "Get it" and let your dog chase.
Next, after the sit, wiggle the lure slightly. If your dog holds, say "Get it".
If your dog breaks, calmly lift the lure out of reach and reset. Make it easier next time.
Slowly add more movement: a slow drag, then a circle around your dog while they wait.
Release only from a calm wait, and keep chases short.
House rules
- The release word is the only start signal.
- Breaks just reset; no scolding.
- Make it easier
- Lure stays still; wait just 1 second.
- Make it harder
- Lure circles your dog, or you walk away before the release.
Signs it's having fun
Trembling-with-excitement wait, then an explosive, happy chase.
Stop if you see
Your dog keeps breaking, barks at you or the lure, or gets nippy.
Safety
Safety- Keep the lure low at all times.
- Good footing; short sessions.
- Stop if your dog is breathless.
Sources
- Flirt poles (Partners Dog Training)
- What is a flirt pole and how do you use it? (Cattle Dog Publishing)
Written from these sources and checked against vet and trainer guidance. General guidance, not veterinary advice.
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