Make a splash! All you need to know about Dock Diving for dogs
What is dock diving?
Zoom, jump, splash. Dock diving is a fairly new kid in town when it comes to canine sports, but it's growing faster than you can say "soggy spaniel"!
Dogs compete in jumping the furthest from a purpose-built platform into a swimming pool. It's fast-paced and exciting, and the dogs can't get enough of the action!
What dock diving equipment do you need?
Most people don't have a suitable swimming pool with a non-slip jumping platform in their backyard, so you're most likely to start your training at a specialist pool where almost everything is provided for you.
You'll need to bring your own towel, ball, and a toy that floats. You might also need a canine life vest, but many classes provide them if necessary.
The diving platform (or diving board) is at least 40 feet long (12.2m) and about 8ft wide (2.4m) to give your pooch enough space to make their run-up and launch. It sits just over 50cm above the surface of the water. They're covered in a non-slip surface, such as rubber tiles or artificial turf.
The pool itself must be at least 41 feet long(12.5m) and 21 feet wide (6.4m). It has a safe exit ramp or steps out, and the water is 4 feet deep (1.2m).
How do you "dock dive"?
There are three main dock diving disciplines: distance, speed and height.
Big Air
This is long jump for dogs. Each team (a dog and handler) has 60 seconds to get their dog down the dock and into the water. The handler tosses a toy, which the dog jumps to retrieve.
The jump distance is measured from the dock to the base of the dog's tail as it enters the water.
The dog who jumps the farthest wins.
Extreme Vertical
An Extreme Vertical rig hangs above the pool. The rig holds a "bumper" (toy). Competing dogs jump from the dock and grab the bumper. They don't have to catch it fully, but to qualify, the bumper must be removed from the rig.
The rig is 8ft from the dock, at a starting height of 4’6”. As the competition progresses, the bumper toy gets higher, 2” at a time.
The winner is the dog who jumps the highest!
Speed Retrieve
A bumper toy is suspended 2” above the water at the far end of the pool. The dog starts at the 20’ marker on the dock. When the starting light turns green the handler releases their dog. They power down the dock and along the pool. The timer stops when the dog grabs the bumper toy from its bracket.
The fastest dog is the champion!
What makes a good dock diving dog?
Any dog can excel at dock diving as long as they are confident, love the water, and are motivated by toys or balls.
In fact, in 2023, 50% of the top 10 dogs were mixed breeds. However, Whippets and Belgian Malinois tend to do very well and often dominate the rankings.
Can any dog enjoy dock diving?
Yes, pretty much any dog over the age of 6 months can get involved in dock diving. There are no breed restrictions, and mixed breeds are just as successful as pedigrees.
If you have a brachycephalic breed, get them checked over by your vet before starting your training.
If you have a floppy-eared breed, such as a spaniel, or a dog prone to ear infections, make sure to keep an eye on their ears. If you have any concerns that they have an ear infection, consult with your veterinarian.
Check out our article on breeds to learn the top 5 Dock Diving dog breeds.
Where can I learn dock diving with my dog?
If you have a water-monster dog, no doubt you're now ready to hit the pool!
Reach out to local dog trainers who could point you to your nearest facility, or visit DockDogs Australia for more information.
Have a Wet Dog Summer with Antinol Plus
Of course, you want to keep your dog as active and excited by life as possible—for as long as possible. That’s why Antinol has partnered with Dock Dogs Australia and sponsors many of their events. We see how much dogs love Dock Diving, and we’re all about keeping Happiness In Motion and helping dogs have their best days!
So why not have a Wet Dog Summer and try Dock Diving with your dog?
