Is it dangerous?
It can be, if you skip the conditioning or the landing area isn't right. With a warm-up and step-by-step progression on the right surface, the risk comes down a lot.
Strength and pulling
Wall Climb
A sloping or vertical wall that goes up after every successful round. The dog runs at it and scales it on momentum and claws. It takes explosive strength and plenty of nerve.
About the discipline
What Wall Climb is
Wall climb turns up as a separate event at strength sport competitions and at show-style events. The wall has a grippy surface so the paws don't slip, and it gets taller round by round.
Most people assume it's a jump. It isn't. The dog climbs: a few strides of run-up, front paws hit the wall, the hind legs push, and it keeps going until it clears the top or touches a target.
It looks great and it's one of the hardest events on a dog's body. The shoulders take the whole impact on landing. You need serious conditioning and a dog in peak form.
How it works in practice
How it works
- a wall with a grippy surface and adjustable height
- a short run-up
- the dog climbs the wall rather than jumping it
- the wall goes up after each successful round
- a mat or cushioned landing area
- two failed attempts and you're out
Which dogs it suits
- athletic dogs with good muscle
- dogs whose joints have been checked by a vet
- teams with experience in strength sports
Few events load the shoulders and spine this hard. Don't try it without a full warm-up and a medical check beforehand.
What you need
- an approved wall with a grippy surface
- a cushioned landing area
- a warm-up before, stretching after
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about Wall Climb
What heights are reached?
It depends on the competition and the dog's size. Big athletic dogs often clear two metres.
Can it be practised at home?
We wouldn't. You need a properly built wall with a grippy surface and a landing area. Homemade versions get dogs hurt.
How do I condition my dog?
Through strength and proprioception work, not by doing the climb over and over. Think inclines, balance work, hind-end exercises and general cardio. Save the high wall for the odd test, never daily training, because the load on the shoulders is too much.
From the same category
Related sports
Tug of War
Controlled pulling contests that turn up at certain sporting events.
Weight Pull
The dog pulls a loaded sled over a short distance, in a special harness.
Carting
The dog pulls a cart round a marked course, and the judge watches how controlled it is.
Draft Dog
The dog hauls a real load round a course, steadily and under control.
We do not run Wall Climb
This page is informational. We work in mantrailing, search and rescue and preparation for the TSAC and BH exams - but if you want an honest opinion on what would suit your dog, write to us anytime.