Author: Suzanne Clothier ~
Originally released back in 1995, Your Athletic Dog was a finalist for Best Video from the Dog Writers Association of America. This groundbreaking video was ahead of its time. Clothier went beyond the traditional structural approach to look at the role of functional movement as an aspect of athletic ability. Twenty years later, the information in Your Athletic Dog remains accurate, timely, and helpful to any dog sports handler who is interested in understanding their dog’s body and helping their canine athlete remain sound and active. Clothier’s systematic approach uses observation, gait analysis and hands-on work to assess functional athletic ability. Specifics are provided on using massage, stretching, and veterinarian-approved exercises to increase flexibility and improve function. Exercise physiology basics are also presented so that handlers can make informed decisions about conditioning and training. Following are some of the topics covered:
The Functional Assessment
- Overall Picture
- Quality of Movement
- Joint Flexion
- The Back
- Foot Placement & Body Alignment
- Moving On A Circle
- Red Flags
Exercise With A Purpose
- Passive Stretching
- Biscuit Stretches
- Cavalletti
- Serpentines
- Gradient Work – Walk, Gallop & Cross Gradient
The 100-page workbook that accompanies the DVD offers further details, including “Try It Yourself” exercises to help handlers understand the biomechanics involved for their dogs. A sport-specific troubleshooting chart helps handlers zero in on possible functional challenges that may be at the root of training or performance problems.
Format: DVD and Workbook
