Puppy In Motion
Non-slippery floor
This is by far the most important piece of “equipment,” as we want to make sure puppies have grippy footing to minimize stress on their rapidly developing bodies. Make use of yoga mats, gym flooring, or carpets to minimize slipping or sliding when doing exercises.
Low stable platforms
We will make use of 1 - 2 low, stable platforms. Aerobic platforms, steppers, and garden pavers are excellent options that are relatively easily accessible. I also make use of scrap wood (with grip tape on top), insulation foams (taped together with duct tape), or puzzle mats (taped together with duct tape, with yoga mat on top).
Large, low, pliable platforms
Now that the puppies are getting used to working on stable platforms, we can start introducing pliable or unstable platforms. Pliable platforms are platforms that are mostly stable, but has a “squishy” texture to it. For example, balance pads or gym mats all into this category.
Smaller, low, stable targets
As we start to introduce individual paw targets, we will make use of 2 smaller targets. Commercial options include, paw pods (Totofit, Fit Paws, Flexiness, and Bosu have a variety of options), pot/cup coasters, small garden pavers. DIY options include wood blocks, insulation foams (taped together with duct tape), or even books. In general, I do not recommend using yoga blocks as they are usually too light and can flip easily, which can potentially pose as a risk of injury.
A large object
We will use 1 large object to introduce puppies going around something. I use a large empty bucket because I have one in the backyard. Other options can be a laundry basket, trash can, traffic cone, rolled up yoga mat, foam roller, or even a chair. Because we are working with puppies, and I am not focused on working on tight turns (e.g., in agility) yet, I prefer to use objects that are larger so the puppies do not have to turn tight when going around the object.
Cookies
For my puppies, I use a portion of their regular meals for cookies. This means that the “cookies” are just their regular kibbles. However, you can use any cookies (e.g., kibbles, cheese, treats) your puppy likes.