Training your dog for the Wall Climb is one of the best ways to build athletic drive, confidence, and timing. The Wall Climb is an official ADBA Top Dog event, held alongside the Treadmill Race and either the Sprint Drag Weight or Lure Course. It’s a sanctioned competition with strict rules, but you can start training your dog at home to prepare.

Bully Max sponsored athlete Hollie Wolanski shares some pro tips on how to safely introduce and build your dog’s climbing ability.

1. Drive Comes First

As the ADBA notes, no dog under 9 months old may compete in Top Dog events, and all dogs must be weighed in before entry is complete. But before you even think about a wall, focus on drive. Start with activities like spring poles and tug-of-war. These exercises build motivation, grip, and confidence—qualities essential for climbing.

In competition, the only bait that is allowed in any of the three competitions is a regulation tug that conforms to ADBA specifications. That’s why tug games at home are the foundation for future climbs. (Each contestant is required to have a regulation tug for their personal dog.)

2. Start Low and Controlled

The ADBA Wall Climb requires a dog to grab and pull the tug loose from a Velcro or release device at increasing heights. Handler can choose the height of the first climb (minimum is 3 times the height of the dog at the withers). At home, begin with a low, slanted ramp or platform. Keep the surface safe, with grip like turf or rubber.

Bully Max sponsors Erica Noseworthy as she introduces one of her young dogs to the sport of wall climb—building familiarity and confidence early on:

Gradually increase the angle and height. Just like in sanctioned events, success is about consistency and safety, not rushing to the top.

3. Teach “Up!” and Focus Training

Handlers in competition may request how many 4-inch increments will be added for each subsequent climb. You can mimic this progression in practice. Hold a toy or treat above your dog and give a clear command such as “Up!” or “Climb!” Reward every attempt—even partial hops—then gradually raise the target.

The ADBA states: “The dog is allowed a maximum of three attempts at each height. A failed attempt is when a dog misses the tug, fails to pull it loose, or fails to engage.” Use the same rule at home: short, clear, consistent attempts with breaks to keep drive high.

4. Build Confidence Before Height

In official ADBA Wall Climb events, a dog continues until it has three failed attempts in a row, or the handler chooses to withdraw. That’s endurance plus athleticism. In training, don’t push height too fast. Build confidence by keeping sessions short, positive, and safe.

Handlers are required to catch their dog under the wall to avoid injuries. No more than two handlers can be present to encourage or catch the dog. Practice with support so your dog always feels secure when coming down.

5. Consistency and Safety Above All

Every ADBA Top Dog event requires a minimum of 6 dogs competing for the event to be sanctioned, divided into “balanced as possible” groups by weight. Placement points are awarded based on the highest successful climb, and tie-breakers may involve a “climb-off.”

At home, your goal isn’t points—it’s safety and steady progress. Warm your dog up, watch for signs of joint strain, and always use proper equipment:

• A well-fitting walking harness (required in competition)
• A regulation tug
• A parting stick to release the tug safely

Why Train for the Wall Climb?

The Wall Climb isn’t just about height. It’s about showcasing your dog’s athletic drive, power, and control under official conditions. Dogs that excel in the Wall Climb earn points toward the coveted ADBA Top Dog title (TD), which requires accumulating 100 points including at least one major event placement (1st–3rd place at an event with 10+ dogs).

As the ADBA explains: “The ADBA Top Dog title will be awarded when a dog achieves 100 points, including placing 1st, 2nd, or 3rd at a Major Top Dog Athletic Event.” A dog achieving 200 points is awarded Top Dog I (TD One), 300 points Top Dog II, and so forth.

With consistent training, you’re not only giving your dog a fun outlet—you’re preparing them for a sport recognized and respected worldwide.