When is too old?

[Labpaw]

Hi everyone. Just a question I have been thinking about that I thought you might be able to help with. My Lab, Parker, & I are very new to the sport. He is going to be 6 in April of '07. When do most dogs hit their peak and is there an age that most dogs no longer jump? I know it is an individual difference, but I was just wondering what your experiences are.

Thank you in advance, Alisa & Parker aka "The Great Pooh"

[ssejrnv]

I have an older dog, Spud, who didn't start jumping until he was 9. He hit his personal best on his 11th birthday of 19'2". I think with the older dogs, as long as you keep them in good shape and active, they can jump as long as they want.

[Cocomo]

Alisa & Parker

My boy is 8 he loves to jump and I do my best to keep up with him.
As long as you keep Parker fit you should do great.

Nancy & Coco

[Sassy Girl]

Hi Alisa,

As you mentioned - it really is up to you. My BC Sassy just started dock jumping on her 13th birthday... she topped out at 6'6".

Sassy was retired from flyball two and a half years ago after being diagnosed with cauda equina syndrome and degenerated disk disease. We went through many meds and she went through some depression having quit all athletic outlets (I was a little paranoid).

I was thrilled to see the fire in her eyes again and not see her come up lame from having fun. She will resume jumping next January - as long as she is still feeling good and wants to. If she came up lame - she would not be competing and for her it is all for fun. I will not push her with the training my other dogs are doing, but she will get to have fun at the dock as long as she wants and is able.

[Labpaw]

Thanks everyone! Hearing such great "tails" of seniors doin' their thing brings a huge smile to my face (and Parker too)!

Take care, Alisa & Parker