Skate boarding dog training made easy is a concept that's gained popularity in recent years. Some dogs are naturally more inclined to skateboarding, but with patience and practice, even the most hesitant pup can learn.
Dogs as young as 6 months can start learning to skateboard, but it's essential to begin with short sessions and gradually increase the duration. Consistency is key to developing a dog's balance and coordination on a skateboard.
Skateboarding can be an excellent way to provide exercise and mental stimulation for your dog, improving their overall physical and mental health. Regular skateboarding sessions can also help strengthen the bond between you and your dog.
Otto the Bulldog
Otto the Bulldog is a talented English Bulldog who set a record for the longest human tunnel travelled through by a skateboarding dog, gliding through the legs of 30 people.
He achieved this feat in his home town of Lima, Peru, where a huge crowd gathered to watch him in action.
Otto became an instant celebrity after his record-breaking achievement was viewed by millions of people and news outlets all over the world.
The three-year-old dog was able to pass freely underneath the tunnel without being led or touched in any way, thanks to the careful arrangement of the crowd.
Otto has also recently featured in an advert for a Swiss high-visibility clothing brand, showcasing his skills on a skateboard with glowing wheels.
Teaching Your Dog to Skateboard
Start by getting your dog used to the board, let him smell it and get excited about it. Leave the board out for him to explore at his own pace.
To make the experience positive, use Grade A treats that your dog loves, and ensure the board doesn't move when he steps on it.
It's essential to master your leash, keeping it long enough to maneuver with your dog, but not so long that it gets caught under your wheels.
If this caught your attention, see: Board Aggressive Dogs
Tips to Skateboard
Lowering your center of gravity is key to skateboarding with your dog safely. Crouch down as low as you can, like a frog on a lily pad, to bring yourself down to your dog's level.
Mastering your leash is crucial for safe skateboarding with your dog. Your leash should be long enough for you to maneuver with your dog, but not so long that it poses a danger of getting under your wheels.
Holding your leash properly is a necessary skill to master, and it involves understanding when to choke up, let loose, and swing around from left to right.
Recommended read: How Long Can You Board a Dog?
Step 2: Reinforcement
As you begin to reinforce your dog's new behavior, it's essential to reward them lavishly with treats. This will help them associate the skateboard with positive experiences.
Make sure the reward comes quickly, as this will encourage your dog to repeat the behavior. The quicker they receive a treat, the faster they'll learn.
Start by slowly rolling the skateboard while your dog is on it, praising them lavishly for staying calm and remaining on the board. Give them a treat when they ride a small distance and get off.
Skateboarding with Your Dog
To skateboard with your dog, you'll want to lower your center of gravity by crouching down low, just like in sidewalk surfing photos. This brings you down to the level of your dog, making it easier to maneuver together.
Your leash is a crucial part of skateboarding with your dog, and it's essential to master its use. A leash that's too long can be a danger, so make sure it's long enough to allow you to move with your dog, but not so long that it gets caught under your wheels.
Some dogs will catch on to skateboarding quickly, such as Bulldogs and Jack Russells, who are natural-born skaters. However, other dogs may need more practice to learn how to skateboard.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What dog breed is best at skateboarding?
Bulldogs are naturally well-suited for skateboarding due to their low center of gravity and wide body. They've even been featured on TV and online as skateboarding stars.
What is the name of the skateboarding Bulldog?
The skateboarding Bulldog's name is Otto. He's part of a loving family that shares his adventurous spirit.
Sources
- Tillman - The Skateboarding Dog (facebook.com)
- @OttoSkater (twitter.com)
- #puppydays (twitter.com)
- Facebook page (facebook.com)
- Skateboarding French Bulldog (reddit.com)
- @sirbunnybottom (instagram.com)
- @erocdog (instagram.com)
- Training Your Dog to Skateboard (animalbehaviorcollege.com)
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