Private consultations by appointment for strength assessments and fitness training, contact Char, dogsontheball@gmail.com
May-June classes at Love On A Leash are full. If you are interested in private lessons please contact Char.
April 2024 Fit Dog Club Walks, Dogs On The Ball Fit Dog Club- Group walks every Tues and Friday morning during April. Counts for Fit Dog Titling group walk points!
Spring 2024 classes at Love On A Leash
To register for a class or questions please email Char Turner: dogsontheball@gmail.com
Introduction to Fit Dog Training– This is prerequisite to Fit Dog Levels as taught by Char.
This 4 week class covers basic skills for getting started in fitness training. Skills for both handler and dog including marker/reward, shaping, targeting, safety and form, and beginning the basics of canine fitness skills. You can see more about this class here
- Fee: $100.00
- Limit 4 dogs/handlers.
- This course is prequisite to the Fit Dog Levels class
- Dates: Thursdays. April 4, 11, 18, 25.
- Time: 6:15-7:15 pm
Fit Dog Levels+: Combined Class Level 1+ through Level 3
This 7 week class is for dogs who started Fit Dog training in a previous class and want to continue in any of the levels. These classes meet and exceed the requirements for AKC Fit Dog points. *Once your dog has completed Level 3 you are eligible for Fit Dog Cohort, a membership for advanced fitness training and customized workouts.
- 5:00-6:00 PM on Thursdays.
- 7 Thursdays, March 7, 14, 21, Apr. 4, 11,18, 25. NO class on Thurs. March 28.
- Fee-$160.00 for 7 weeks. Week 7 is for everyone whether or not you miss a class, but it will be considered as a makeup class if you miss any.
- Limited to4 dogs and handlers.
Requirements for all of my Canine Fitness classes:
*Minimum prerequisite for all dogs is completion of basic obedience class.
*All dogs must be able to work safely around other dogs and handlers in an active setting. It is owner’s responsibility to keep their dog under control at all times.
*Health and Safety: All dogs must be healthy and injury free. This class is for fitness and conditioning in normal, healthy dogs, not for dogs already diagnosed with chronic injuries or in need of rehab. History of injury or chronic conditions will require documented veterinary clearance to participate in general conditioning and fitness training. As the owner, it will be your responsibility to address any questionable issues or limitations with your veterinarian. You will be asked to sign a waiver to this effect at the start of class.
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Class starts Jan 11,2024 – FitDog Level 1, at Love On A Leash, Harrisonburg VA.
Thursdays Jan. 11-Feb. 15 2024, 5:00-6:00 PM
Fit Dog Foundations for Beginners-Puppies, Adults and Seniors! Questions or register, email Char: dogsontheball@gmail.com
• Level 1+ covers the precision foundation skills and movements to effectively perform strength and conditioning exercises at the next levels. As taught by Char Turner, LVT CSCC, “+” means that this class exceeds the AKC Fit Dog Level 1 requirements.
• Trainer skills and concepts- application of precision luring, shaping, targeting, delivery markers how/why. Positive reward based training is utilized throughout.
• Confidence, Trust and Relationship – gain a deeper understanding of your dog’s physical, emotional and cognitive abilities through the varied aspects of fitness training.
• Safety with appropriate challenges will be prioritized.
• AKC TITLES: If your goal is AKC Fit Dog titles, just let Char know! We will be covering all the required skills for Bronze level in this class. Fit Dog points can be earned in week 6 subject to instructor evaluation.
• Fee: $150.00, includes optional AKC evaluation and certificate of completion for title points.
Eligibility and prerequisites:
• Healthy dogs, minimum age 6 months or older.
• All dogs must be able to work safely and under control in a small class setting.
• Puppies must have completed a puppy class at Love On A Leash or equivalent
• Dogs over 12 months must have completed a basic obedience class at minimum
• This class is for fitness and conditioning in normal, healthy dogs., not for dogs already diagnosed with chronic injuries or in need of rehab. Any history of injury or chronic conditions will require documented veterinary clearance to participate in general conditioning and fitness training.
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Is your dog strong? Find out! Strength evaluations Dec . 7, 3:00-6:00
Char Turner, LVT CCSC (Certified Canine Strength and Conditioning Coach)
Is booking appointments for Thursday, Dec. 7 at Love On A Leash in Harrisonburg VA. 30 minute blocks between 3:00-6:00 PM. To book an appointment email: dogsontheball@gmail.com
In this preliminary strength evaluation, Char will identify areas for improvement and offer recommendations to meet the individual needs of your dog. Appointments are available in 30 minute blocks from 3:00-6:00 PM.
*NOTE: Char is not a veterinarian and does not offer diagnosis of injury or physical therapy. This is for generally healthy dogs to improve daily function and/or sports performance through appropriate strength and conditioning training. Dogs with history of injury will require veterinarian approval to participate in a strength and conditioning program.
All dogs over 12 months of age to Seniors are welcome! Sporting or non-sporting, all welcome.
Points to consider in active sports or other recreational or daily activities with your dog:
Is your dog strong enough to do what you ask?
• Are you in tune with your dog’s strengths and weaknesses?
• Do you know how to make the most of those strengths and weaknesses?
• Are you doing all you can to keep your dog safe in training and performance?
• Do you know how to identify strength in your own dog?
Did you know that strong dogs…
• Have superior balance, proprioception and control which expedites learning and overall performance
• Are more precise in their movements and positions, more confident in their body
• Will maintain correct posture as a default position because they are strong to the core!
• Are less likely to be injured during physical activities because they move with control and also adapt to sudden changes more efficiently.
• If injured tend to recover quicker and more fully
Did you know that a well-executed canine strength and conditioning program can also-
• Build your dog’s confidence in mind, body and motion
• Deepen your understanding of your dog as an individual, both physically and emotionally
• Improve your observation skills- raises your awareness of dog’s body and movements.
• Build your dog’s trust in what you are asking them to do by recognizing their limits- when and how much to challenge, and when not to.
Do you know how to-
• Implement a properly designed exercise program to meet your dog’s needs? All dogs can benefit from proper exercise, and sport dogs need it even more to support the excessive demand on their bodies.
• Keep your dog as safe as possible in training and performance? Just because a dog “is doing it” does not mean they “should”. It is in the dog’s best interest to have them conditioned and strong enough to participate as safely as possible. Do you know how to do this?
FACT: Simply training your sport is not enough on it’s own to provide the conditioning needed for optimal performance and safety. A strength and conditioning program provides this support.
Injury data from the AVMA-https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/javma/259/9/javma.259.9.1001.xml
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November 2023-2 Part Workshop-Simply Fit!
This is a two part workshop presented in 1 hour sessions.
Fee: $50.00. Limited spots available-small group to provide individual instruction.
Email dogsontheball@gmail.com
When: 2 Thursdays, Nov.2 and 16, 5:00-6:00. Where: Love On A Leash, Harrisonburg
What: Session 1-You will learn to train 3-4 beginner exercises to cover planes of motion in proper form. Session 2-After two weeks of practice we will meet again for session 2 and review your progress. We will then look at variations you can do with the basic exercises you have trained. NOTE: Limited to 4 dogs and handlers to allow for personalized instruction.
Who is this for?
•If your dog is new to fitness training OR needs a jumpstart back into it!
•If you want to train fitness and willing to dedicate a few short sessions a week
•All dogs who are 12 months or older and free from current or chronic injuries.
•Dogs who can work safely around other dogs and people.
•Handlers who are committed and able to do the homework. Spend a few minutes a day, 4-5 days a week during the 2 week break between sessions.
•Ages 12 months to Senior.
•Active adult dogs, including sport dogs who do not currently participate in any supplemental exercise program.
•Adult dogs who need to be more active!
•Senior dogs who are able but lacking some flexibility with limited mobility as a result, arthritic but mobile. I can adapt for seniors however is needed.
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For continuing canine fitness students: Fit Dog Cohort
This Cohort is full. Stay tuned for next available dates!
Note: The next Fit Dog Cohort begins Oct 9 2023 and will run through April 9 2024. New Cohorts will form periodically, every 3-4 months. Details here.
Fit Dog Cohort is for committed handlers who want to continue their dog’s fitness training with inidividual coaching and progressions in a structured program on a flexible schedule. Eligibility: Must have taken any of Char’s canine fitness classes, workshops or private lessons.
Email Char if you are interested: dogsontheball@gmail.com
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Introduction To Canine Conditioning and Fitness Workshop
Presented by Char Turner, LVT, BS, CSCC, CTDI
**This workshop is full. If you would like to be on the waiting list for this one if there is a cancellation, or first notification for the next workshop, send your request to dogsontheball@gmail.com
When: Sat. Aug. 5, 2:00-4:30 Where: Love On A Leash, Harrisonburg VA
Do you know how to select appropriate exercises for your dog? Do you know what to look for in proper form? Did you know that practicing exercises with bad form is not only non-productive but can cause injury? Do you know how to fit an effective exercise program into your dog’s training schedule?
This workshop will cover basic skills needed to effectively train your dog to perform foundation exercises correctly. Skills covered will include: Basic Targeting for fitness, Stillness, Proper Form (in positions and execution of exercises), Posture Priority. Foundation exercises will include various forms of Weight Shifting, a selection of basic exercises for Core, Front and Rear End Strength, and Proprioception. Active stretches, Warm Up and Cool Down and how to properly implement a Circuit Workout will be included. You will leave this workshop with a professionally designed starter Circuit Workout program!
Spaces are limited to working spots only. Fee is $60.00. Registration opens on July 1. To reserve a spot email Char, dogsontheball@gmail.com
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Senior Canine Fitness Workshop
Love On A Leash, Harrisonburg, VA
Presented by Char Turner, LVT, BS, CSCC, CTDI
When: Sat. June 24th, 2:00-4:00 PM
What: This workshop will cover essential exercises for maintaining or improving mobility, flexibility, balance and strength, while providing some cognitive enrichment for your senior dog. We will evaluate your dogs’ posture and their ability to perform beneficial movements and exercises. Adaptations will be provided as needed to meet the individual needs of both dog and handler, ensuring proper form and maximum benefit for your senior dog. Minimal equipment is required, normal household items can be used and will be demonstrated in the workshop. You will leave this workshop with a professionally designed do-at-home exercise program for your senior dog.
Cost: $50.00 per dog and handler, includes customized beginner exercise program. Limited to 6 dogs and handlers, only 1 dog per handler please. Working spots only.
Eligibility: Dogs age 7 and up. All dogs must be able to work safely and under control around other dogs and humans. NOTE: Upon reserving your spot, you will be emailed a waiver that includes a statement signed by you that your dog has veterinary approval to participate in a fitness workshop.
To reserve a spot or more info, email Char: dogsontheball@gmail.com
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SPRING 2023 Canine Fitness Classes held at Love On A Leash, Harrisonburg VA Mondays,
Next session- Mondays, April 3-May 8. 6 weeks.
FULL DETAILS HERE: https://dogsontheball.com/akc-fit-dog-classes/
For more info or to request sign up contact Char: dogsontheball@gmail.com
See more about my training here
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Winter Fitness 2023! Mondays, Jan. 23- Mar. 6. Fit Dog Level 1-1:30-2:30. Level 2- 3:00-4. Makeup class all levels offered Mar 13, 1:30. Level 1- $160.00. Level 2 $150.00. Email dogsontheball@gmail.com for more info or to reserve your spot.
Optional AKC assessment for those wanting points towards the AKC Fit Dog titles.
Eligible dogs must have completed minimum basic obedience training and be able to work safely and under control around other dogs and people.
Dec. 3, 2022- 10:00-1:00- Workshop: Focus First! Focus foundations for training and relationship. FULL.
Nov. 2022-new session of Content To Scent program for sensitive and environmentally challenged dogs training in scent sports! This is not your “skills and drills” class. It is about building confidence and comfort zones to enhance scent training. Classes or private lessons available and ongoing. Class size is limited to 3 dogs and handlers to provide low stress environment and one on one attention. To make reservations email Char: dogsontheball@gmail.com
Oct 30 and Nov 2 2022- Content to Scent Mini Workshop- Trillium Valley Dog Training, Sperryville VA November 2022-
AKC Fit Dog Classes Classes will be taught at Love On A Leash, Harrisonburg, VA. 6 weeks: Mondays 2:00 starting Nov 7 or Tuesdays 3:30-4:30, starts Nov 8. Email Char for details: dogsontheball@gmail.com https://dogsontheball.com/akc-fit-dog-classes/
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April 7 & 14-1:00 FitDog Workout Circuit, Turner Farms (subject to weather)
March, 2022- FitDog workouts every Thursday, 1:00 at Turner Farms. Subject to weather.
Feb. 15, Group Walk, 1:00, local park
Feb. 10, 2022 Fit Dog Workout, Turner Farms 12:30-2:30
Feb. 7 2022, Group Walk, local park 1:00
Jan. 13, 2022, Thurs.-Fit Dog Workout- Turner Farms 12:30-2:30
Jan. 12 2022, Wed.-Fit Dog Group Walk, local park, 1:00
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2021 and prior
Dec. 31, 2021, Friday, 12:30-2:30, Fit Dog Workout-Turner Farms
Dec. 23 2021, Thursday 12:30-2:30- Fit Dog Workout, Turner Farms
Dec. 16 2021, Thursday 12:30-2:30 Fit Dog Workout, Turner Farms
New! AKC Fit Dog Club: https://dogsontheball.com/akc-fit-dog-classes/ First meetup, Dec. 10, 2021. Exercise stations with setups, at Turner Farms.
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2018 AKC Farm Dog Certified Test-October 27, 2018. Turner Farms, Harrisonburg, VA. Premium will be posted here and on the AKC event page when available. Pre-entries only, deadline Oct. 20. AKC event listing here AKC Farm Dog workshop/prep class-Aug 18, 2018, 9:00-11:30 AM. Workshop is full. NEW! AKC Farm Dog Certified prep class Held on the same farm where we will be conducting a Farm Dog Certified Test on Oct. 27, 2018. (Harrisonburg, VA) Wednesday mornings 9:30-10:30. Dates: June 6,13,20,27. July 11, 18. Tricks (AKC and DMWYD), DMWYD Stunt Dog and Parkour Classes Next Tricks session TBA, held at Love on a Leash in Harrisonburg, VA. Space is limited. If interested contact Char, dogsontheball@gmail.com TRICK DOG TITLING: As a CTDI, (Certified Trick Dog Instructor)I offer Do More With Your Dog titles in classes, private lessons, or by video. Private lessons by appointment. Contact Char for info: dogsontheball@gmail.com Competition Obedience: Fenzi TEAM– TEAM is an acronym for Training Excellence Assessment Modules. As an avid Fenzi Dog Sports Academy student since 2013, I offer private lessons in this positively motivating and relationship based approach to competition obedience. TEAM is a standalone video titling program that also offers the challenges and solid foundation that can translate to any other competitive obedience venue (AKC, UKC, CDSP, etc.). Details about this innovative video titling program here: http://fenziteamtitles.com/ Private lessons by appointment, contact Char, dogsontheball@gmail.com
Dogs On The Ball 