DIY Flirt Pole for Dogs

At first glance, you might think this looks like a cat toy, wouldn’t blame you for that, we did. But you’ll be amazed at how much some dogs like to chase this around (for hours if you have the energy!!)

It’s also a great idea for people who may not be up to running around the yard, or able to, like those with arthritis and fibromyalgia, etc. You can completely wear out your dog — without wearing yourself out!

When we were searching for new toy ideas that would keep our boy Chewy enthused we discovered this idea and decided to try it as he is always interested in our Kittie’s feathered teaser sticks. He goes absolutely nuts for it which is great too because he usually has a lot more energy than we do, lol.

This has now become one of our dog’s favorite toys. Here we will show you how to make a flirt pole for your dog. Your cats might even enjoy this one, ours do. Just change out the toy on the end.

What is a flirt pole

A flirt pole or a flirt stick is a pole with a lure or dog toy attached. It is often used to help train dogs to chase a lure in preparation for competitions. It is meant to tempt a dog into giving chase.

And boy does it cure their boredom blues!

The other thing about a flirt pole that is great is the ability to change out the toys on the other end. Example: if your dog gets bored with the one or it becomes worn out you can simply add a new one.

The instructions are easy and listed below. We hope you find them as entertaining as our pup does.

How to make a flirt pole

A DIY Flirt Pole really is an easy dog toy to make and your dog will have endless hours of fun. If you have a dog with a lot of energy, a flirt pole is a great way to burn off that excess energy and can help deter them from destructive behaviors that can stem from boredom.

DIY Flirt Pole

Materials:

• PVC pipe
• 10-15 feet of rope
• a dog toy
• Fun colored electrical tape (optional)

Instructions:

1. For a medium dog, buy a 4 foot long 3/4″ PVC pipe, 10-15 feet of rope, and a dog toy.

2. Thread the rope through the pipe and tie a knot at either end of the pipe, to keep the rope from sliding in and out.

3. Tie a toy to the end of the rope.

4. Optional: You can buy fun colored electrical tape or duct tape (finally an excuse to buy lime green tape!) and wrap the PVC pipe so it’s all fancy. It also helps give you a better grip on the pole.

Flirt Pole Variation #2

These flirt pole instructions are slightly different than the one above but still cost-efficient and very durable.

Thanks to Bulletproof Pitbulls for this great tutorial.

Materials:

• 3/4 Inch PVC Pipe – 4-6 foot long
• Para-cord
• a couple of washers larger than the 3/4 in opening in the PVC
• a 3/4 inch PVC Elbow
• Athletic Tape
• A toy or something to use as a lure

Instructions:

1. Cut your PVC at a comfortable length that is long enough to keep your dog at a distance so they do not run into you when giving chase.
2. Add the elbow joint to one end of the PVC pole.
3. Run your para-cord through the PVC pole and add the washers to the end that comes out of the elbow securing them by knotting the para-cord.
4. On the opposite end of the para-cord, tie on your dog toy / lure.
5. Using the athletic tape, wrap the PVC pipe to create a grip on the handle starting at the PVC elbow and working about 1/4 of the way up the pole.

How to use a flirt pole

To use your flirt pole with your dog, get your dog to sit and wait for your command. Once you give the “get it” command, move the toy end of the flirt pole away from your dog in a wide arc prompting them to give chase.

Remember to occasionally allow your dog to get the toy and then give them praise so that they stay interested in the game.

Flirt pole for large dogs

To make a flirt pole for a large dog, you will follow the same instructions as above, however you will need a 5 to 6 foot long pole instead of the 4 foot pole for medium sized dogs. Making the pole longer will help you extend your reach so that the dog is not running into you while chasing the lure.

A note, smaller dogs will require a shorter pole between 2-3 feet in length.

For more DIY Puppy Love, check out DIY First Aid Kit for Dogs and Homemade Dog Flea Shampoo Recipe.

Please note: This post is not meant to prevent, treat or, cure any ailment or disease. We are not veterinarians and you use our advice at your own discretion. We always recommend that you consult your veterinarian whenever you have health-related conditions your furbaby is facing. With that in mind, as pet parents ourselves, we wish nothing but the best for your pet and their healthy and happy lives.