Flirt Poles and Pit Bulls

By David M Russell

A flirt pole is a great tool for both training and exercising a pit bull or any breed of dog. A flirt pole consists of a pole a rope and bait. The best aspect of using a flirt pole is that it can be used with any age or level of dog. Also because it doesn't require a large open area it can be used in a small area.

A flirt pole is easy to build. You can start by buying a lunge whip from the local farm supply or horse tack shop. At the end of the lunge whip simply attach an old rag or burlap cloth as a bait item for the dog. If you think the rag doesn't create enough weight feel free to add a tennis ball by poking two holes in it and threading the line through.

Even though a lunge whip is the easiest way to get started, there are many other ways to build a flirt pole. Currently, I am using an old fiberglass tent pole with a cotton rope. I have used PVC pipe, Bamboo, an even a tree branch in the past. Take a look at what you have lying around the garage or house and I am sure you will find something that can be used. Never use any metal when attaching the bait too the line. Metal can be damaging to dogs teeth. Also, I generally use cotton rope I would suggest not using any material for line that you wouldn't be comfortable with your dog chewing on.

With the flirt pole in hand it is time to take you and the dog outside. Find a spot preferably over dirt and grass and hold the pole in one had while laying the bait in front of the dog. Avoid using the flirt pole on concrete because concrete could potentially be bad on your dogs feet.

Once you have the dogs attention start moving the bait around, most dogs will instinctively start to chase the bait. If your dog doesn't immediately start to play with the bait you may need to get down and play with it yourself to increase your dogs desire to want the bait.

Once your dog is actively pursuing the bait start moving it around in circles, occasionally allow the dog to grab the bait. If you don't let this happen the dog may loose interest in the bait, it's important to let the dog win sometimes in order to encourage its prey drive. This is a great time to practice your release command. Once the dog has hold of the bait you can pull, I find that the older the dog gets the less pulling I do. Once he has it I normally issue a release command and start over.

Initially it's important to keep the bait on the ground, once your dog is old enough and athletic enough you can start to whip the bait into the air. Naturally your dog is going to jump. This is a great way to exercise your dog. Be careful at first not to over exercise your dog, when starting out keep sessions under five minutes and add as your dogs conditioning increases.

The flirt pole provides an inexpensive way to both exercise and train your dog. You will notice that use of the flirt pole will increase your dogs agility and coordination.

Dave Russell is an advocate for the true conforming pit bull breed. Visit his site to learn more about the Adorable Pit Bulls.