In the majority of Italian sports or toy stores, you often find only frisbees designed for human use.
These frisbees are entirely different from those made for dogs.
First and foremost, they are much heavier (ranging from 140 to 200 grams), wider, and made of very hard plastic.
Additionally, the plastic used tends to get damaged easily, creating protrusions that can cut your dog’s tongue and lips.
These frisbees are NOT suitable for playing with your dog!
Dog-specific frisbees are slightly smaller in size (there are even smaller discs for small dogs), have a weight ranging from 90 to 146 grams, and are made from a plastic specifically designed not to harm your dog’s mouth.
There are countless models to choose from, each designed for different types of bites.
There are lighter ones that stay in the air longer and allow for more challenging throws but may wear out quickly if your dog has a strong bite.
Then there are those that can withstand the bite of any dog without getting damaged, which are generally heavier than the former and have a more limited time in the air but can last for years.
Of course, the skill of the thrower should also be considered. It’s undeniable that a good thrower can handle any type of frisbee, or rather, can choose the right frisbee for the right situation.
For example, if I were to do a long-distance throw where the dog needs to catch the frisbee at 60 meters, I would prefer a heavier disc.
There are many variables to consider in evaluating the bite to determine which disc to use with your dog.
In most cases, certain breeds have a stronger and more secure bite (e.g., Molossians).
However, this cannot and should not be a strict rule, as the use of the mouth is highly subjective.
Some dogs may have an insecure bite, which is reflected in their interaction with the disc.
These insecurities affect the way the dog catches the disc in the air, grip strength, and precision in catching.
Rare are the individuals capable of damaging the discs simply by catching them in mid-air, but in most cases, damage is caused by chewing during retrieves or during breaks.
It is therefore understood that in cases where the bite is not sufficiently secure to play smoothly, specific strengthening work will be necessary.
Of course, the work will be just as demanding and necessary in cases where the dog tends to linger too long on the disc, biting and destroying it.
That said, when you come to do Disc Dog, we will make an initial assessment of your dog’s bite to choose the right frisbee for them and for you.
Enjoy & play Disc Dog!
