mthegodfathe
Banned
Wondering if anyone on here has used one and if so what are your opinions on it.
Springpole
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mthegodfathe
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Any opinions would be greatly appreciated.
Jan, a springpole is essentially a piece of hide or sack hanging on a rope/spring from a tree (or other suitable structure) that the dog is encouraged to leap up to bite and hang on to.
Can't say I'm crazy about them. That is partly just natural aversion - because the device seems to be something employed by the type of people who own Pit Bulls and want to 'build them up' and 'increase their prey drive' :rolleyes:
But used correctly, it can be something a dog could enjoy. By used correctly, I mean hung low so the dog's rear feet never leave the ground (thus helping to avoid excessive strain on the jaws/teeth and impact/strain on the ligements and musculature which would occur if the dog fell or let go from a height).
That said, IMO your dog would get more enjoyment out of a good game of tug or fetch.
Can't say I'm crazy about them. That is partly just natural aversion - because the device seems to be something employed by the type of people who own Pit Bulls and want to 'build them up' and 'increase their prey drive' :rolleyes:
But used correctly, it can be something a dog could enjoy. By used correctly, I mean hung low so the dog's rear feet never leave the ground (thus helping to avoid excessive strain on the jaws/teeth and impact/strain on the ligements and musculature which would occur if the dog fell or let go from a height).
That said, IMO your dog would get more enjoyment out of a good game of tug or fetch.
mthegodfathe
Banned
We play tug and fetch alot. But I am in a wheelchair and we cant play as hard and as long as he would like sometimes. I thought this might be a good way for him to play and get exercise while i watched.
Frisbees can be a good option for a game that has the dog doing all the running 
How old is your guy? If he's less than 2, I'd wait on things like springpole. Even when they're not hanging their whole weight from the jaw (meaning the rear feet are still on the ground) they can still get a bit carried away and do themselves damage. Boxers are pretty slow to mature physically (LOL - mentally too, but that's a different issue).
If he's 2 or older, then sure it could be a good good way for him to play/exercise without you needing to be too involved physically. I'd just be careful that the height remains low, and that you don't let him get too carried away or play too long. Boxers don't always have the good sense to rest or retire when they're tired. Another good option, of course, is to find a buddy for him to play doggy games with a couple of times a week
How old is your guy? If he's less than 2, I'd wait on things like springpole. Even when they're not hanging their whole weight from the jaw (meaning the rear feet are still on the ground) they can still get a bit carried away and do themselves damage. Boxers are pretty slow to mature physically (LOL - mentally too, but that's a different issue).
If he's 2 or older, then sure it could be a good good way for him to play/exercise without you needing to be too involved physically. I'd just be careful that the height remains low, and that you don't let him get too carried away or play too long. Boxers don't always have the good sense to rest or retire when they're tired. Another good option, of course, is to find a buddy for him to play doggy games with a couple of times a week
mthegodfathe
Banned
He is only 1 year old. Still a baby but so full of energy. If i was to let him play on a springpole how long would I let him play.
Hmmm - well at a year old, I personally wouldn't let him play. His jaw isn't really strong enough or properly set yet. At that age, I'd be careful about how strongly he played tug...
If you do though, how long is a matter of judgement. As an arbitrary measure I'd say half an hour is enough, but it would really depend on just how physical he was being, or if you detect any signs of tiredness that excitement or determination isn't letting him give in to.
If you do though, how long is a matter of judgement. As an arbitrary measure I'd say half an hour is enough, but it would really depend on just how physical he was being, or if you detect any signs of tiredness that excitement or determination isn't letting him give in to.
mthegodfathe
Banned
Cool Deal. Thanks for all the great advice.
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