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When a daily walk won’t cut it for your high-energy dog, a flirt pole can be a real game changer. Flirt poles provide a high-intensity workout for pups in a limited area—without requiring strenuous effort from their handlers. Dogs with high prey drives tend to love them, and trainers cite them as great tools for practicing self-regulation and lowering arousal.
For beginners, Michelle Lehr, therapy dog trainer, AKC class instructor, and lead writer for Good Dog Swag recommends starting slowly. “Allow your pup to smell and explore the pole with plenty of praise in order to create a positive emotional association with it,” she says.
Lehr also advises beginning with small jerks and pauses, so dogs can follow the lure with their eyes, ears, and nose at a lower level of intensity. “Once they understand the concept and become more skilled, you can start making more abrupt and fast movements,” she explains.
Cue words also come into play here. “Use the same verbal cues for both initiating the game as well as when you want your pup to ‘let go’ or take a break,” Lehr says. Developing hand signals to accompany the verbal cues will make your communication even more clear.
Read on to learn more about how you can safely introduce this type of chase toy to their dog’s routine.
What Are Dog Flirt Poles?
Dog flirt poles, sometimes called “flirt wands,” are similar to a giant cat teaser—but better equipped to deal with a more aggressive set of chompers. Consisting of a pole with a line and a lure at the end, the flirt pole combines a tug toy and ball toy for a true workout.
Flirt poles have been around for a long time in the dog sports world, but they’ve recently caught on among the general public. One major advantage over other high-chase games is that a flirt pole lets you stay in control of the environment the entire time. You can also change up the lures, with styles that range from tug and leather toys to ropes and plushies.
Types of Flirt Poles for Different Dogs and Play Styles
While all flirt poles follow a general formula (pole + rope + lure), each of those components can differ in material, length, and durability. Certain features and designs will also speak to different dogs.
For the beginner flirt pole user, consider finding a simple design at an affordable price point, like the Outward Hound Tail Teaser, in case you or your pup decide you’re not that into flirt pole games. Compared to other poles out there, the Tail Teaser is pretty lightweight—making it easy for pet parents to carry, wave around, and take to the park. This chase toy comes with two plush lures, in case one gets lost or destroyed. The Tail Teaser is also reasonably durable, though it’s no match for the strongest of canine jaws.
For more serious chompers, opt for a more heavy-duty toy. For example, the revamped Squishy Face Studio Flirt Pole has a thick pole that’s nearly double the weight of the Outward Hound Model. It’s considerably sturdier—but will also be heavier to carry.
Using a flirt pole indoors presents some unique challenges. Space limitations and fragile decor require a compact option for a more restrained version of the game. The Chasing Tails Flirt Pole Teaser, for example, offers an adjustable rope attachment, making it easier to avoid collisions with furniture or walls. The pole is also lightweight, so it’s easier for dog parents to handle and control the wand.
How To Teach Your Dog to Play with a Flirt Pole
With origins in a sport called “lure coursing,” the flirt pole is designed to wear out high-energy, goal-oriented sighthounds like Basenjis, Whippets, and Salukis. It’s fantastic for burning off steam while also giving your dog a “job.”
“Flirt poles provide an excellent physical workout for your dog—encouraging them to stay active, prevent boredom, and build muscle and coordination,” Lehr says. “When used correctly, a flirt pole is particularly effective in sharpening a dog’s focus and drive to work.”
A quick round with a flirt pole can blow off steam, making it a great pre-walk activity for dogs who need help staying calm on a leash.
Lehr notes that the flirt pole can also serve as a reinforcer for learning new cues. “For basic training, the flirt pole is a great way to reward dogs with physical activity while teaching cues like ‘come’ and ‘fetch,’” she says. It’s also a great way to practice established cues like “sit,” “down,” “look,” and “leave it.” “[The pole] also helps introduce new actions and behaviors to your canine by having them chase and try to catch difference objects.”
Physical benefits aside, the flirt pole is a terrific bonding tool for dogs and their humans, Lehr tells us. “On an emotional level, the flirt pole can help bring out your dog’s personality by providing them with fun and stimulation—leading to better quality time with you.”
To get the most out of your wand, there are some rules and safety considerations to follow:
- Have your dog lie down, look at you, and wait before playtime begins.
- Say “take it” when it’s time for them to start playing.
- Let them catch the toy every once in a while to keep them interested.
- Give them cooldown time between periods of play.
- Don’t forget to change direction—give them a little variety while they run.
- Most flirt poles aren’t meant to be “tug” toys. Letting your dog tug hard on the lure can pull the pole from your hands, possibly resulting in injury.
- Don’t dangle the lure up in the air: dogs can get injured by jumping or landing poorly.
The Final Verdict on Dog Flirt Poles
When used properly, a flirt pole can be an excellent way to provide physical and mental stimulation for dogs within a smaller space. Dogs with energy to spare will love them, and pet parents with limited time will appreciate these chase toys. Lehr adds that some pups may find them especially enticing: “Dogs with high prey drive or herding breeds may particularly enjoy the excitement and challenge of chasing the moving object.”
Of course, the flirt pole isn’t for everyone. Some dogs should avoid this toy, particularly if they have bad joints, don’t respond to cues, or become overstimulated by the pole to the point where they can’t calm down.
Aggression is another thing to consider, Lehr reminds us. “If your pup is particularly aggressive, a flirt pole may not be the right choice, as it may bring out excess aggression or negative behaviors,” she says.
Every pet parent’s mileage will vary, but we think the following will have the best success with a flirt pole:
- Energetic dogs
- Hunty dogs with high prey drives (Beagles, Jack Russel Terriers, Yorkies, Whippets, Weimaraners, Afghan Hounds)
- Herding breeds (Australian Cattle Dogs, Border Collies, Sheepdogs, Shepherds, Rottweilers)
- Dogs who need to exercise in a limited space (indoors or in a small yard)
On the other hand, a flirt pole might not work for:
- Dogs with joint or back issues
- Injured dogs or pups recovering from surgery
- Dogs with breathing problems
- Puppies under four months old who are still developing their joints
- Aggressive dogs
- Dogs who are easily overwhelmed, frustrated, or scared
If your dog isn’t a good candidate for a flirt pole, Michelle offers some fun alternatives to consider, including scent-based activities. “You can hide treats and toys around the house or in the yard and have your dog find them,” she explains. Interactive puzzle toys and slow-feeder toys can also challenge your dog’s brain while helping them burn off excess energy. Or your dog might find an agility course to be more their speed.
How We Chose
The dog flirt poles featured here were selected based on a comprehensive look at customer feedback across a wide variety of retail platforms and interviews with veterinary experts. We prioritized chase toys with durable materials and customizable lures. We’re also guided by the experience of living and playing alongside our own much-loved and strongly opinionated dogs, who are never stingy with their feedback.