The 10 Best Weave Poles For Dog Training

Reviews

Weaving Poles for MiMu Dog Agility Equipment

The MiMu Agility Poles are a straightforward method of training your dog. They won’t win any design awards, but if you’re looking for a functional solution that won’t break the bank, look no further.

Because the poles are all separated, you can arrange them in any way you want, including very closely together for advanced training. However, this makes them easy to lose, so be cautious when traveling with them. They do come with a bag, but it’s made mostly of paper.

The poles are made of hard plastic, so even the most clumsy dog is unlikely to break them. Their tough construction also makes them simple to drive into the ground.

The MiMu Agility Poles are an excellent starter set that is suitable for most amateur trainers. When you combine their utility and affordability, you get a useful set of sticks.

Pros

• Can be configured in any way.
• Excellent for advanced training
• They are difficult to break due to their hard plastic design.
• It is simple to drive into the ground.
• Excellent value for money

Cons

• Individual poles are easily misplaced when traveling.
• The included carrying case is of poor quality.

Agility Weave Poles by Lord Anson

The Lord Anson Weave Poles are the way to go if you want to show off your gear as much as your dog. They’re made of powder-coated metal and will last forever while looking great.

Of course, you’ll have to pay for that beauty, as these are some of the most expensive poles available. They’re available in sets of six or twelve, but the 12-pole set doesn’t connect well, so the half-dozen option is preferable.

The poles can be sunk into the ground or inserted into the metal base, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. You can also stake the base into the ground to keep it from moving during the session.

If you’re serious about agility training and plan on doing it for a long time, the Lord Anson Weave Poles will be your constant companions.

Pros

• Extremely appealing
• Made of long-lasting powder-coated metal
• Sets of six or twelve are available.
• Can be used both inside and outside.

Cons

• Expensive
• The 12-pole set does not connect well.

PAWISE Pet Outdoor Games Agility Weave Poles

The steel spikes on the bottom of the PAWISE Outdoor Games Weave Poles allow them to be easily stabbed into the ground while also ensuring that they will not move if your dog bumps into them.

The poles will be about 40″ tall once driven into the ground, allowing even large dogs like Mastiffs to use them. They may bend, so make sure your big dog doesn’t bump into them. To avoid this, there is a rope guide that shows you where to place the poles.

Despite the heavy-duty steel spike on the bottom, these poles are light and portable. The included carrying case is sturdy and should last as long as the poles.

The spikes, however, do not have caps, so use caution when transporting them.

The PAWISE Outdoor Games Weave Poles are simple to use on almost any surface, making them an excellent choice for owners who like to train in a variety of settings.

Pros

• Steel spikes keep them firmly in place.
• Tall enough to accommodate large dogs
• Included is a rope guide.
• Poles are lightweight and portable.

Cons

• If the poles are bumped, they may bend.
• There are no spike caps.

Adjustable Agility Obstacle Set by PawHut

If you don’t want to deal with the stress of determining where to place the poles, the PawHut Obstacle Set is an excellent choice.

The entire set is designed to be unfolded and simply set out on its base, with the poles automatically positioned. However, everything is adjustable, so if you’re not happy with the layout, you can change it in a matter of seconds.

The design can be straight-line or offset, providing you with flexibility during training.

The base, however, does not come with stakes, so you’ll have to make your own if you don’t want the whole thing to move every time your dog bumps into it. The poles are lightweight, but also somewhat flimsy, so don’t expect this set to last forever.

The PawHut Obstacle Set isn’t perfect, but it’s a great option for people looking for something simple to use.

Pros

• Simple to assemble and disassemble
• No need for positioning
• Can be reconfigured to meet your requirements
• Poles can be straight or offset.

Cons

• Not very long-lasting
• Stakes are not included with the base.
• Every time the dog bumps it, it moves.

Midlee Agility Set for Beginners

The Midlee Beginner Set is an excellent all-in-one solution for getting your dog involved in various types of agility work. It includes a jumping hoop and a bar jump in addition to the weave poles.

It’s a reasonable price for such a set, but if all you wanted were weave poles, it’s probably more than you want to pay. Everything is adjustable, so you can use it for multiple dogs or start a puppy off easy before gradually increasing the difficulty.

The set has feet that keep it upright, but they won’t be enough if your dog knocks it over. The whole thing, however, is simple to assemble, so you can take it with you and set it up anywhere with little effort.

However, the pieces frequently fall out for no apparent reason, requiring you to stop and reassemble everything.

The Midlee Beginner Set is ideal for getting started with a variety of agility training tasks. If all you need are weave poles, you can get better ones for less money.

Pros

• Jumping hoop and bar jump are included.
• Everything is adjustable to accommodate different dog sizes.
• Simple to assemble and disassemble

Cons

• If you only want weave poles, it will be expensive.
• Doesn’t hold up well.
• Pieces fall out for no apparent reason.

3 in 1 Dog Agility Set by MelkTemn

The MelkTemn 3 in 1 Agility Set is inexpensive in both senses. The poles are made of lightweight plastic and are easy to transport. They also have a strong metal spike that keeps them in place. However, because the plastic is flimsy, any type of accident can dent and render them useless. The jump ring and hurdle set are made of the same plastic and do not come with instructions for assembly.

You must also choose between weave poles and the other two setups because you will be using several of the poles to make the ring and hoop sets. When all of them are combined, you will only have three poles to deal with.

The ring and hurdle are also on the small side, making them unsuitable for larger dogs.

If you simply want as much versatility as possible without spending a fortune, the MelkTemn 3 in 1 Agility Set is a good option. However, it is far from the best on the market.

Pros

• Lightweight and portable
• Poles are well held in place by metal spikes.
• There is also a jump ring and a hurdle.

Cons

• Plastic is brittle.
• There are no assembly instructions included.
• To make the ring and hurdle, weave poles must be used.
• Not suitable for larger breeds..

Interactive Training Kit for Outward Hound

The Outward Hound Interactive Training Kit is ideal for training your dog indoors. It adheres to the ground with suction cups rather than spikes, making it ideal for tile floors.

This makes it more suitable for smaller breeds, as larger dogs will most likely require more space than you have in your kitchen.

Aside from the weave poles, there’s also a tunnel and an adjustable jump. You can set them up in seconds by simply laying the rods over the poles’ hooks. However, they fall off at the slightest bump, so expect to have to replace them frequently.

The poles are also not weighted, and they don’t always stick to the ground very well. The set also includes lures for training your dog on the poles, but they are filled with balls that can be a choking hazard.

The Outward Hound Interactive Training Kit is a lifesaver if you’re looking for something to do on a rainy day or don’t have access to a yard or park. Otherwise, you’re better off going with a more powerful option.

Pros

• Ideal for indoor use
• It also includes a tunnel and a jump.

Cons

• Suitable for smaller dogs
• Jump disintegrates at the slightest bump
• Poles are unweighted and easily topple.
• Includes choking hazards such as lures.

Low-Cost Agility Stick in the Ground Set

The Affordable Agility Stick in the Ground Set is as basic as it gets, but it may be all you need to get started.

The kit includes six 36″ tall PVC poles with 5″ spikes at the ends. All you have to do is drive them into the ground and start working. The fact that each pole is sold separately allows you to space them however you see fit.

They don’t do well in extremely hard or dry soil, so you’ll need lush soil for them to work. Because the poles are so long, they tend to lean to one side once planted.

There is no storage bag or anything of the sort included, so you’ll have to figure out a way to transport them. They’re also fairly expensive for what you get, especially considering you have to apply the tape yourself.

The Affordable Agility Stick in the Ground Set is one of the best no-frills options available, but for the same price, you could get a set with a few frills.

Pros

• Extremely straightforward and simple
• You can arrange them however you want.

Cons

• Not suitable for hard or dry ground.
• Poles have a tendency to lean.
• There is no carrying case included.
• Pricey for what you get
• You must apply the tape yourself.

Buyer's Guide: Selecting a Weave Pole

Weave poles are simple, but you should do your homework before purchasing a set. Choosing the wrong option may result in a flimsy pair that cannot withstand the abuse that agility training will subject them to, and you will need to replace them sooner rather than later.

We compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions by dog owners before they begin using weave poles.

What Characteristics Should I Look for in Weave Poles?

This will be determined by where and how you intend to use them.

Most people do their agility training outside, so if you intend to do so, you’ll need a set that can withstand the elements. This includes having spikes that can be driven into the ground (and stay there) and sturdy frames that won’t break if knocked over.

In that case, you want your poles to be upright. Some are too tall to stand straight, and even the slightest breeze can knock them over. Others include bases that can be placed inside, but unless spikes are used to secure the base to the ground, these can also be knocked over.

You should also consider whether or not you will need to travel with these poles. If you don’t have a big yard, you’ll probably have to take them to a park to practice. That means you’ll require a carrying case. Many sets include a case, but they are frequently of poor quality.

Finally, some pole sets include additional agility training devices. Tunnels, ring jumps, and other obstacles could be included. These sets are usually more expensive, but that does not imply that they are of higher quality. You’ll need to do some research to determine whether it’s better to buy a complete set or buy each item separately.

How many poles do I require?

Most sets have six or twelve poles. Six is typically recommended for beginners (and is used in beginner-level competitions), while advanced dogs use the entire dozen.

However, if you’re only teaching the fundamentals, you can start with as few as two or three. However, most dogs will quickly outgrow such a small number, so expect to need to upgrade soon.

Are there any standard dimensions I should be aware of?

Regulation weave poles should be between 36″ and 48″ tall (measured from the ground up), with a 1″ diameter.

However, if you intend to compete in weave pole contests, keep in mind that each governing board has its own set of rules, which may differ from what is shown here. Before entering a competition, you should always read the rules.

What distance should the poles be set apart?

Most competitions call for a distance ranging from 19″ to 24″, with 24″ being the most common. Most sets with fixed pole positions will have them set within that range.

If you’re not looking to compete, the distance is entirely up to you. Just keep in mind that spacing them wider than 24″ defeats the purpose, while spacing them closer than 19″ makes things extremely difficult for your dog. There is a reason why that range is designated.

What Are the Various Types of Weave Poles?

PVC, plastic, or aluminum are commonly used in construction. Although PVC and plastic are the least expensive options, they are not used in professional competitions. However, they may be sufficient for home training.

The main disadvantage of PVC and plastic is that they are not as heavy or as durable as aluminum. While this makes them easier to transport, it also makes them more vulnerable to being knocked over or damaged during training. Of course, replacing them is also reasonably priced.

Most high-end aluminum poles are lightweight as well, though they are unlikely to be collapsible like many PVC options. They are rigid enough to stand up straight, even if they are quite tall, and they are unlikely to be knocked over by a clumsy dog.

If you intend to compete, you should probably invest in a nice set of aluminum poles. They can cost several hundred dollars (or well over a thousand), so it’s not worth it if you’re just getting started.

Also, keep in mind that even top competitors train with simple materials like PVC and plastic, so it’s not like you can’t teach your dog everything they need to know with less expensive materials.

What Equipment Should I Use for Indoor Training?

It will be difficult to train your dog to use weave poles indoors unless you have a small dog. They require a lot of space to maneuver, and most poles have metal spikes on one end to keep them upright. You don’t want to drive one of those spikes through your living room floor, do you?

However, there are a few options for indoor use. These typically have suction cups or similar devices in place of metal stakes, allowing you to attach them to your floor without damaging it.

However, they will not work on carpet and will require a hardwood, tile, or similar material floor.

Your other option is to make something up. If you go this route, however, there’s no need to buy weave poles because you can make your own.

Are Weave Poles Safe for All Ages of Dogs?

Most trainers and agility experts recommend waiting until a dog is at least 15 months old before beginning to use weave poles competitively. The reason for this is that navigating the poles requires them to bend and flex their spines, which puts a lot of strain on their growing joints. It’s best to start training them when they’re fully physically mature.

However, you can introduce your puppy to the poles while they are still puppies. It’s actually recommended because weave poles can be difficult for dogs to master, so you want to give them a head start by exposing them to the poles as early as possible.

You should not use weave poles in a straight line with puppies (or dogs with joint or spinal problems). Instead, stagger them so that they can walk between them without straining their backs.

You can bring the poles into alignment once your puppy is fully developed.

Conclusion

The Cool Runners Weave Poles are the way to go if you’re looking for a good, solid set of weave poles. They’re lightweight and durable, and they’ll last for years.

Consider the MiMu Agility Poles for a high-quality budget option. They’re inexpensive and can be configured in a variety of ways, so you’ll get a lot of bang for your buck.

All of the best weave poles for dog training featured in these reviews will help you train your dog quickly and thoroughly, and they will keep you — and your pup — occupied for hours on end.

Hopefully, this post from BestForPets (bestforpets.org) has helped you pick the finest product for your pet.