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Obedience Stuff.com
Dumbbell 101
Dumbbell 101
Mel Stanley and Company
Dumbbell Components.
Dumbbells have three components:
End Height. This is the height of the ends of the dumbbell. The bar is fitted in the center of the ends and determines how much space the dog’s lower jaw will have to slide in between the floor surface and the bottom of the bar. If the ends are not high enough, the dog will likely have trouble picking it up, and may likely pick it up from the top. If the end is too high, the dumbbell may be too heavy; the ends may block the dog’s vision, and the dog may have trouble picking it up. End heights are available in quarter inch increments from 1-3/4 to 3-1/2 inches.
Bar Diameter. This is the thickness of the bar. If the diameter is too small or too large, the dog may roll it around in its mouth trying to find a comfortable place to hold it. Our bars are knurled to provide a solid fit and grip which discourages mouthing.
Bars are available in diameters of 3/8, 1/2, 5/8, and 3/4 of an inch.
Bar length. This is the most important component for achieving a proper fit. If the bar’s length is too short the dog likely cannot pick it up properly, and if it is too long, the dog may hold it crooked and may even drop the dumbbell.
Bar lengths are available in quarter inch increments from 1-3/4 to 3-1/2 inches.
Each of the above components when sized correctly assure a proper fit for retrieving.