In this course, I share some common knowledge, research, and anecdotal experience to bring you awareness about best practices in disc dogging. It has taken me over 15 years to accumulate this knowledge. I believe everyone that plays disc (or any other games) with their dog should have knowledge of how to play safely and knowledge of care options that will extend your dog's active life. That's why I made this course's content free to access!

If you have the means and would like to do a “pay what you can,” you can venmo me here (@flyingcanines). I really appreciate it as I put a ton of effort into this course, despite knowing I wasn’t going to charge a dime for it. If you don’t have the extra cash and want to show appreciation, please share my online course website.

I truly believe disc is one of the safest dog sports for your dog to enjoy long term, when proper care is taken. One of my favorite things about disc is how much you can adjust the game and still enjoy the game with your dog at any age.

Level: ALL levels
Dog Age: Any & All!

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Course curriculum

  • 1
    Introduction
  • 2
    Best Practices to Prevent Injuries & Extend Longevity
    • Environmental Safety
    • Paws & Dew Claw Safety
    • Dental Safety
    • Throwing Safely
    • Landings
    • Warm Up & Cool Down
    • Repetition & Duration
    • Symmetry in Training
    • Cross Training
    • Knowing when Something is Off
    • Handler Safety
  • 3
    Risk Factors for Injury
    • Weight as a Risk Factor for Injury
    • Age as a Risk Factor for Injury
    • Genetics as a Risk Factor for Injury
    • Drive & Lack of Self Preservation as a Risk Factor for Injury
  • 4
    Adapting Play Based on Your Dog's Age
    • Puppies (Under 18 months)
    • Young Adults (18 months to 3 years)
    • Adults (3 to 8 years)
    • Seniors (9 years +)
    • Top 3 Tips for letting your disc dog age gracefully!
    • The Life of a Disc Dog
  • 5
    Additional Care
    • Supplements & Medications
    • Body Work
    • Other Therapies

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Your Instructor

  • Kirby McIlveen, CCFT

    37x Disc Dog World Champion

    Kirby McIlveen, CCFT

    I've been competing in disc dog events since 2006. I have 9 incredible disc dogs who have taught me a lot. Together, we've traveled around the world, winning various disc dog championships. I'm excited to share my tips, tricks, and training methods with you!

    Disc Dog Accomplishments
    • 37 World Championship Wins with 5 dogs in 4 organizations (Torch, Sora, Flare, Muse, Zin)
    • 77 World Championship Podium Finishes with 10 dogs (Sketch, Flash, Torch, Volt, Sora, Flare, Muse, Key, Zin, Bonbon)
    • 5 Quadruped National Long Distance Series Wins with 15 event wins (Sketch, Sora, Psy)
    • Purina Incredible Dog Challenge Freestyle Flying Disc National Champion (Torch)
    • USDDN Level 4 Certified Judge
    • UpDog Certified Freestyle Judge
    (See full list of accomplishments here.)

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