Welcome to Kzoo Canisports!
We offer canine fitness classes, Trek & Train sessions, Canicross & Canihiking clinics, outdoor workshops, and other fun activities for you and your dog in Kalamazoo, Michigan and beyond.
Why work with us?
We welcome people and dogs of all abilities. Our supportive environment helps handler-dog teams build skills, confidence, and strong partnerships. Kzoo Canisports is proud to participate in the AKC Fit Dog program. We are an approved AKC Fit Dog Club. Have fun and earn AKC titles!
Canine Fitness Programs
Programs involve exercises to build strength, coordination, and balance, often involving paw targeting, weight shifts, and other controlled movements aimed at improving canine fitness. Classes may require a Blue-9 KLIMB, CATO Board, FitPaws Balance Ramp, aerobic bench, yoga mat or similar fitness equipment. Equipment for in-person classes can be rented for a small fee. Equipment rental is coming soon.
Trek & Train Sessions
Trek & Train sessions combine short, outdoor excursions with basic dog obedience training. Dogs enjoy exploring, burning energy, and building endurance, while practicing skills in real-world settings with distractions. All training is done using methods based on positive reinforcement.
Canicross & Canihiking Clinics
Our clinics teach people the necessary skills to safely participate in Canicross & Canihiking with their dog. Participants will learn proper gear selection, trail etiquette, tips for hydration and nutrition, etc.
Outdoors Workshops & Leave No Trace Demonstrations
We offer workshops and demonstrations for a variety of outdoor topics including land navigation/orienteering and Leave No Trace. Leave No Trace activities are taught by a Certified Instructor.
AKC Fit Dog Runs/Walks
AKC Fit Dog runs/walks encourage healthy habits for you and your dog through fun, inclusive events offered in-person and virtually. Participate at your own pace and earn AKC Fit Dog titles. All activities are conducted in accordance with AKC rules.
Virtual Challenges
Information is coming soon.
Physical activity is essential for good canine health.
Lack of physical activity can shorten a dog’s life and raise the risk of arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. We focus on keeping dogs in shape to minimize the risk of developing chronic illness.
Key Benefits of Canine Fitness & Outdoor Adventures
- Physical Health: Improves cardiovascular health, strength, and endurance
- Mental Stimulation & Enrichment: Keeps dogs engaged through skill-building
- Socialization: Facilitates Interaction with people and other dogs in a safe, structured environment
- Bonding: Deepens the human-animal bond through shared activity and fun
Canine Learner Characteristics
- Health & Physical Readiness: Must be cleared by a Licensed Veterinarian, free from illness and/or injury, and up to date on age appropriate vaccines
- Motivation: Loves treats, praise, or toys
- Temperament: Confident, neutral towards people and other dogs
- Basic Manners: Knows basic cues such as sit, down, and stay
- Engagement: Willing to participate actively in building body awareness (proprioception)
- Equipment: Able to work in training equipment approved for the AKC Fit Dog program (no prong collars, e-collars/shock collars, choke chains, or retractable leashes)
“Being an athlete is a state of mind which is not bound by age, performance or place in the running pack.” – Jeff Galloway
Sit, Stay, Learn
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