Dog training stick

Dog Training Whip | What is a whip used for?

What is a whip used for? Surely this is a question asked by anyone who watches films about dog training or has simply seen defence dog training in person? Is he hitting the dogs with that whip? Of course, this is a natural question that anyone might ask if they associate a whip with the brutal training of animals in the circus.

So what’s the story with this whip and dog training?

Depending on the type of sport (IPO, Mondioring), the assistant’s role varies, as do the other accessories used in dog training. During IPO competitions, the helper carries a baton, usually made of leather or plastic, and one of the exercises involves testing the dog’s ability to withstand impact whilst biting.

In Mondioring and French Ring, bamboo is used, which is split to create a sort of rattle. In French Ring competitions, the dog may be struck to test its endurance and pain tolerance.

So what is a whip used for?

The whip is used during defence work training. It has a highly stimulating and irritating effect on the dog. For dogs that are afraid of gunshots, the crack of the whip can be the first step towards getting used to the sound and building up courage, if used skilfully. Another reason why the decoy carries a whip is, quite simply, for safety reasons. The whip can be used to defend oneself against a dog in an unexpected situation, such as when an agitated dog breaks free from its lead.