We’re not strangers to stability balls here. Most dog trainers know that stability balls are an excellent tool for proprioception and balance training with our canine athletes. They’re also great for general conditioning, increasing core strength, and providing a fun and stimulating way to exercise.
That said, did you know that stability balls can also be used as part of a pet fitness program? As you can see in the video below, you can use a stability ball to improve your dog’s balancing skills.
The trick here is to focus on duration. How long can your dog stay on the ball without falling off? Start with a few seconds and work up to longer intervals.
Once your dog is comfortable balancing on the stability ball, you can start to add movement. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Sit: Have your dog sit on the ball and hold for a few seconds.
- Down: Have your dog lie down on the ball and hold for a few seconds.
- Walk: Have your dog walk across the ball from one side to the other.
- Stand: Have your dog stand on the ball and hold for a few seconds.
Remember to start slowly and increase the difficulty as your dog gets comfortable with the exercise. And as always, consult with your veterinarian before starting any new exercise program with your pet.
Happy training with PetFitness!
