Cavaletti
Cavaletti, meaning "little horse" in Italian, is a training tool originally used for horses to improve their balance, adjust stride length, and condition. Nowadays, many dog trainers use cavaletti poles for canine conditioning and physical therapy. The setup for canine cavaletti is similar to that used for horses, though lighter materials like plastic or PVC are often used. Including cavaletti in regular training can improve footwork, build confidence, independence, and patience in dogs. Give it a try and discover the benefits of cavaletti exercises for your furry friend!
No cavaletti poles? Click here for instructions on how to make a set out of PVC pipes.
-
![A yellow mixed-breed dog is sniffing among a number of PVC poles scattered on the floor.]()
Pre-cavaletti skills
Ideal for puppies, dogs with no prior training, or those with sensitivity, these exercises provide the foundational skills necessary for building a strong teamwork relationship before working on actual cavalettis.
-
![A black fluffy dog is trotting over cavaletti poles held up by cones placed sideways on the front.]()
Straight cavaletti
Straight cavaletti exercises help the dog-handler team in navigating the cavaletti poles with proper posture and pace. These exercises form the basis of all cavaletti workouts.
-
![A yellow lab is trotting through cavaletti poles placed in a curved line around a cone in the middle.]()
Curved cavaletti
Building upon the skills from straight cavaletti, curved cavaletti enhances flexibility and body awareness. These exercises enable dogs to develop the ability to shift weight as they maneuver curves with accuracy and control.
