How to Train Freestyle Weaves
Freestyle is more than just toss and fetch these days. Participants invest years training the amazing behaviors you see on TV like vaults and flips and leg weaves. Here is a simple guide of how to train successful leg weaves. Even if you don’t plan to complete in freestyle disc – this is a real show stopper to anyone that sees it.
Here’s a video of Freestyle Weaving and How to Train this trick below.
Start with a toy or frisbee that your dog LOVES. Set the dog up facing you to the front. Spread your legs wide enough to fit the dog easily and take a step forward with one foot. I suggest always leading with the same leg. This was a tip from our disc trainer John Arnett – always starting on the same side helps the dog to anticipate the behavior.
Take the toy and hold it behind your back and drop between the space in your legs and shake it while giving the command (weave, through, etc…). The dog should go through your legs toward the same hand the toy is in – looping from between your legs off to your side.
Then take a forward step with the opposite foot and switch the toy to the opposite hand, placing it behind/between the other leg. Shake the toy and give the command, luring the dog through.
Take your time with this process and give the dog lots of praise for each successful “through”. Reward with the top you’re using as a lure – toss the frisbee or tug with the toy.
Once your dog is able to do a few weaves, work on the release word – like Go! – which tells your dog that they can look for the toy to be thrown and no longer need to focus on weaving. I also always complete the weave on the same leg every time.
Wala – you’re weaving! If you’re also doing agility, I suggest using a different word for the agility weaves, like poles, so the dog doesn’t get confused. Have fun!
