Introducing FitBO™: A Unique Low-Impact Sport to Strengthen the Connection Between You and Your Dog

Are you looking for a fun and innovative way to bond with your dog while enhancing obedience training and fitness? Look no further than FitBO™—a low-impact sport modality I’ve developed to increase subtle communication between you and your dog. With FitBO™, you can hone your obedience training with precision while also incorporating elements of canine fitness to ensure a holistic approach to your dog’s well-being.

What is FitBO™?

FitBO™ is designed to help dogs and handlers work together as a team, moving smoothly from one challenge to the next. This engaging sport focuses on building a strong connection and improving precision in the execution of various behaviors. The real challenge lies in two main areas: completing the behaviors at each station and maintaining a strong, consistent connection with your dog as you move toward the next task.

As teams improve, the difficulty of the challenges increases. The course introduces a faster pace, time requirements to finish, and even more precise handling—creating a fun, yet rewarding challenge that grows with you and your dog.

The Levels of FitBO™: A Gradual Increase in Challenge

FitBO™ is designed with progress in mind. We start with basic exercises and increase the complexity as teams develop better coordination and focus. Here are examples of some of the challenges and how they progress:

Sitting

Level 1: Sit on a platform – This level focuses on ensuring the dog sits, but doesn’t emphasize precision yet.
Level 2: Sit on a platform in a sphinx position – Knees point forward, thighs parallel to the body. This position requires more focus and control.
Level 3: Duration – The dog must hold the sphinx position for a set number of seconds, challenging the dog’s endurance and stability.

Transitions

Level 1: Walk on a semi-loose leash to the next station – The dog needs to maintain a loose leash but doesn’t have to stay perfectly in sync with the handler.
Level 2: Walk to the next station on a loose leash – This stage challenges the dog to stay by the handler’s side with a completely loose leash.
Level 3: Walk on a loose leash while checking in with the handler – Now, the dog must consistently check in with the handler as they move forward.

Standing

Level 1: Stand for 3 seconds without shifting weight between legs – This introduces the dog to maintaining balance and poise.
Level 2: Increase the duration to up to 10 seconds – The dog’s ability to remain steady for longer periods is tested.
Level 3: Stand in a stacked position – This requires precision in posture.
Level 4: Maintain the stacked position with distractions – Now, distractions are introduced to challenge the dog’s focus.

Movement with Precision

Level 1: Cavaletti on the ground, lured to maintain focus – The first step involves guiding the dog through the Cavaletti obstacles, using luring techniques.
Level 2: Cavaletti with less luring, trotting from point to point – The dog will begin trotting through the obstacles with less guidance, requiring more self-control.
Level 3: Cavaletti, trotting, no luring, focused forward – The dog must navigate the Cavaletti course without any luring, staying focused and trotting efficiently.

Access to Learning Materials

All teams participating in FitBO™ will have access to videos of the different challenges and behaviors so they can practice at home. This allows handlers and dogs to progress at their own pace, ensuring a deeper understanding and mastery of the skills needed to succeed.

Class Details

Dates: Saturdays April 19th, 26th, May 3rd + 10th, 2025, from 8:00 am to 9:00 am
Orientation: The first date will be a people-only orientation.
Location: The class will be held outdoors in Tesuque. Please bring layers and a hat to ensure comfort during the class.
Dogs: Open to four dogs, ages 5 months and up. Dogs must be comfortable working around other dogs and people (no lunging or excessive barking at others).
Vaccinations: Dogs must be up-to-date on their DHLPP vaccinations or provide proof of a current titer test.

Registration and Fees

Registration: Registration closes on Saturday, April 12th, 2025, or when the class fills up.
Fee: $213.76 (Santa Fe County tax has been added).

Join Us for an Exciting Journey

If you’re ready to take your dog’s fitness and obedience training to the next level, FitBO™ is the perfect opportunity. Together, we’ll foster a stronger connection between you and your dog while enhancing precision, fitness, and focus. Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of a unique and dynamic experience.