Flyball Training For Dogs – Resources to get started

Posted On October 11, 2021

Flyball is a fast-paced team sport for dogs, where your furry canine team jump hurdles and overcome challenges to test their talent, training, and endurance. Flyball dog training and competitions are fun for everyone – the dogs, their handlers, and the spectators alike. 

A popular team sport, Flyball is made up of a team of 4 dogs. These teams fly (run really fast) down an obstacle course one at a time. The course is made up of 4 hurdles. The dogs run down and jump over these hurdles, retrieve the ball, turn and run back down the course. After passing through a gate, the next team member begins their leg of the race. Think of it like a doggy relay race! 

Dogs in these competitions can run up to 30 mph (48kph) which makes them look like they are flying. This is where the name comes from. It is an exciting and sometimes chaotic sport to watch and take part in. 

This sport is a good one for a ball-crazy dog with lots of energy to burn. If this sounds like your pup this may be the sport for them. 

If you are looking for a fun activity that will let your dog flex their skills, then read on! We’ve put together a list of resources for flyball training.

How do you train for flyball?

Wag has put together a great instructional guide for training flyball with your dog. There are three different methods to master flyball with your dog. Each of the methods are broken down into steps and once your dog has mastered all methods, it’s time to join them all together for some flyball training fun!

Their guide estimates it takes around 2-4 months of consistent flyball training for your dog to master the skills.

Method 1 – ​​The Focus on the Ball Method

With this method of Flyball training, the aim is to start by training fetch with a focus on retrieving the tennis ball. Gradually, you aim to add hurdles to the mix each time they bring the ball back

Method 2 – The Reverse Training Method

Similar to agility training, this method uses the method of working your way backwards through a complete course. Starting at the finish line, you and your dog work your way back to the start. Building up drive to get to the end of the course.

Method 3 – The Break It Down Method

This method breaks down the elements of the obstacle course into their own sections. Instead of working backwards, or slowly introducing the obstacle course, you break it down into sections. Teaching hurdles, then trigger ball box, then turn, launch etc. This can help to shape complex tasks required by your dog to complete the obstacle course.

Each of these methods are a great way to build up your dog’s confidence in overcoming a flyball course. Check out Wags comprehensive steps on their site. 

Other great guides on flyball training

• Pet Place – A Beginners Guide To Flyball
• Dog Obedience Training Review – The Basics of Flyball Training For Dogs 
• Advance – Teaching The Flyball Box

Flyball Training Videos

There are plenty of great video resources on Flyball training. Below are our top recommendations to get you started:

• Beginners guide – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mZ9ugj73Oqw
• AKC Flyball Demo – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIFLlEGhNu0
• Flyball Power Jumping – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u564EgYBo3Q
• Flyball Documentary – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8T62QbgDl7I

Is flyball training good for dogs?

Flyball is both great mental stimulation for dogs and good for burning off energy! Since its beginnings in Southern California in the 1960s, Flyball dog training has been keeping dogs entertained across the world.

It is a great sport to help you bond with your dog, boost confidence in dealing with problem solving, and burning off energy!

It is also important to keep in mind, Before you begin training, it is important to make sure your dog is in good physical shape. If your pooch has any joint problems or issues with sharp turns and running fast, it may be worth getting your Vets opinion before beginning training.

What age can a dog start flyball training?

Because there are sharp turns and jumps, dogs must be at least 12 months old before you begin flyball training. This helps to make sure your dogs’ important joints are finished forming and won’t cause any strain on young puppies. 

What are the best dogs for training flyball?

Any dog with a strong ball-drive can compete in flyball!

Flyball as a sport is open to all breeds, as long as they can behave around other dogs and have good off-leash manners you can have fun with flyball.

How do I Get Started in flyball competitions?

If you LOVE the idea of getting out there and competing with your dog, the best way to get started is to find a club in your area. Many clubs will offer classes with other dogs and handlers you can train with.

Remember! Flyball is a team sport, so if you want to compete, you will need to find yourself teammates. Check out the AKCs 101 on competing in flyball.

Australian Flyball Associations:

Australian Flyball Association – https://www.flyball.org.au/getting-started/

List of Australian Flyball Clubs – https://www.flyball.org.au/clubs/

American Flyball Associations:

NAFA – http://www.flyball.org/index.html

List of American Flyball Clubs – http://www.flyball.org/getstarted/index.shtml

European Flyball Associations

British Flyball Association – https://www.flyball.org.uk/

List of British Flyball Clubs – https://www.flyball.org.uk/getting-started/find-a-club

German Flyball – https://flyball-de.chayns.net/

List of German Flyball Clubs – https://flyball-de.chayns.net/QuickstepFlyballteams

Belgium & Netherlands Flyball Association – https://www.flyball.be/nl/

Belgium & Netherlands Flyball https://www.flyball.be/nl/clubs

Czech Republic Flyball Association – http://flyball.cz/

Czech Republic Flyball Clubs – https://flyball.cz/flyball-v-cesku/