A stick, a ball, a rope with a knot tied on it, these are all tried and tested methods of entertaining and exercising dogs. But for some people, basic isn't always best … meet Go-Go Dog Pals, remote controlled pet toys designed to be chased by dogs while the owner takes the more leisurely option of controlling it with a remote.
The remote controlled toy - which comes with a woodchuck shell but can be made to look (a bit) like a squirrel, a rabbit, a turtle, or a porcupine with optional covers - is said to be rugged and durable enough to withstand what your dog throws at it while helping to provide it with the exercise it needs.
Under the various shaped and sized covers is a high torque dual motor, four-wheel drive vehicle which can power along at 35 km/h (22 mph) on surfaces such as short grass, synthetic turf, gravel or dirt, and pavement. It has a built-in electronic speed control system and is controlled with a wheel and a trigger style remote which uses a 2.4GHz digital radio control system.
The idea behind the product is that by getting their dogs to chase the 1.76 kg device, owners will be able to ensure their four-legged friends get the exercise they need - in a way that's easier and less monotonous than running around the park and repeatedly throwing a stick.
"Dogs naturally like to chase because that is really what they were born to do," said William Bowen of Go-Go Dog Pals. "Whether it’s sheep or cattle, rabbits or squirrels, or other dogs, it’s in their DNA. Dogs are not meant to lead sedentary lives, but many owners find it difficult to consistently exercise their dogs properly. The Go-Go Dog Pals product is a great way to provide the exercise critical to your dog’s health without exhausting you in the process."
Bowen added that the product would be particularly helpful for pet owners who are older, struggle with their own fitness, or generally have difficulty exercising their pets. It's also said to be a good training tool for hunting dogs. Go-Go Dog Pals are currently available online from gogodogpals.com for US$300.
Source: Go-Go Dog Pals
Here's a quick vid of a pooch trying to catch a Go-Go Dog Pal:
