Spring is the perfect time to dust off your training gear, shake off the winter chill, and dive into a new season of dog diving training. With the NADD qualifiers coming up in July, now’s the time to start preparing your pup for peak performance.
Whether you’re aiming for Regionals or just getting your dog excited about dock diving, here’s a spring-focused guide to getting competition-ready—with plenty of opportunities to train at A Dog’s Way Inn.
1. Start with a Spring Training Plan
Consistency is key when it comes to dock diving prep. Use the warmer weather to get back into a regular training schedule. Begin with low-impact activities like walks, swimming, and basic obedience drills to rebuild stamina and focus.
Gradually introduce more specific dock diving skills:
- Run-and-jump drills
- Toy retrieval in water
- Distance jumping exercises
- Entry techniques (sit-stay, wait, release)
Spring is also a great time to refresh your dog’s training cues if things got a little rusty during the winter.
2. Focus on Fitness and Conditioning
Dog diving isn’t just about the jump—it requires muscle, endurance, and coordination. Help your dog get in shape with:
- Core-strengthening exercises like balance work
- Hill walks or short sprint sessions
- Swimming for low-impact conditioning
- Flexibility work with stretching and warm-up routines
A strong, agile dog is a confident dock diver. Spring conditioning ensures your pup is both safe and successful on the dock.
3. Book Dock Time at A Dog’s Way Inn
One of the best ways to prepare for NADD qualifiers is through regular practice on an actual dock. A Dog’s Way Inn offers access to our professional dock diving facility—perfect for dogs of all levels.
Schedule private or group dock sessions to:
- Practice in a distraction-free setting
- Get feedback from experienced trainers
- Build confidence with positive reinforcement
Training in a competition-like environment helps your dog get used to the sights, sounds, and surfaces they’ll encounter during Regionals.
4. Mind the Details: Health, Hydration & Gear
Spring training is about more than just jumping—it’s about setting your dog up for success in every way. Make sure you:
- Keep your dog hydrated before and after sessions
- Check for seasonal allergies or irritants
- Use appropriate gear like floatable toys and fitted life vests if needed
- Keep nails trimmed and ears clean after water play
A healthy, happy dog is more focused and ready to perform.
5. Set Goals & Stay Motivated
The NADD Regional Qualifiers are a great milestone to work toward—but the real win is watching your dog grow, learn, and have fun. Set mini goals along the way, whether it’s increasing jump distance or improving wait-and-release timing.
And don’t forget to reward the small victories—every splash counts.
Ready to Dive In?
Whether your dog is a seasoned jumper or a first-time flyer, spring dog training at A Dog’s Way Inn will help you gear up for the NADD qualifiers with confidence. Contact us today to book a training session, dock rental, or learn more about our dock diving programs.
