A springpole can be a fun way to exercise your dog if used correctly, if not done properly.. this type of work can be dangerous to the dog and even cause serious injury.
Make sure the dog cannot reach the spring, the dog's back feet should be able to reach the ground at ALL TIMES. The way dogs are most commonly injured working a springpole is by leaping high in the air, or losing their grip when dangling in the air and falling. There is no reason for a dog to hang off the ground, it might look impressive but it is just asking for trouble and serves no purpose in conditioning your dog.
Actually, the dog gets a better workout if his back feet can touch the ground at all times, and if he can touch his front feet to the ground when he tugs downward. He will work the muscles in his rear end, back, shoulders, and neck as well as his jaw muscles as he tugs and shakes the the tug or tyre.
Always supervise your dog when exercising.
Pictures to follow shortly
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Website Maintained by K. Thornton
kirsty@american-bulldog.co.uk