If your dog loves water and can’t resist the thrill of a good splash, dock diving might be the perfect sport to try together. Fast-paced, exhilarating, and surprisingly beginner friendly, dock diving (also known as dock jumping) has become one of the most popular dog sports worldwide. It combines athleticism, teamwork, and pure joy as dogs sprint down a platform and leap into a pool, competing to achieve the longest or highest jump.
In this guide, we’ll break down how dock diving works, what dogs are best suited to it, and how you can get started.
What is Dock Diving?
Dock diving is a competitive dog sport where dogs jump from a raised dock into a body of water, usually a long pool, chasing after a toy or retrieving object. The goal is simple: achieve the greatest distance, height, or speed depending on the event type.
The sport began in the United States during the 1990s and quickly spread internationally. Today, organisations across the UK offer training facilities and host competitions.
Each competition uses standardised pools and docks (usually around 36 to 40 feet long), and events are measured with precise technology that tracks where the dog’s tail base or nose hits the water.
“Dock diving is an incredible way to strengthen the bond between dog and owner. it’s all about teamwork, trust, and having fun together. It’s also fantastic for a dog’s fitness and confidence, It’s very inclusive and it’s exciting to see how quickly the sport is growing.”
– Holly Davis, Dock Diving UK
How the Sport Works
Dock diving is made up of three main event types, each testing a different skill.
1. Big Air (Distance Jumping)
The most common event. Dogs sprint down the dock and leap into the water after their toy, with the distance from the end of the dock to the first point of water entry being measured.
2. Extreme Vertical (Height Jumping)
Here, the toy is suspended above the water, and dogs must leap upward to grab it. It’s an incredible display of strength, timing, and athleticism.
3. Speed Retrieve
This combines swimming and retrieval. A toy is placed at the far end of the pool, and the dog is timed from launch to grab. It’s a race against the clock.
Some clubs also host “Iron Dog” events, where competitors take part in all three disciplines for an overall score.
What Dogs Can Take Part?
One of the best things about dock diving is its inclusivity. Almost any dog that enjoys water and can swim confidently can have a go, regardless of size or breed.
That said, certain breeds tend to excel naturally. Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Border Collies, Whippets, and Belgian Malinois are common competitors thanks to their energy and drive.
However, smaller breeds and mixed breeds are also increasingly represented. Competitions are often divided into categories by height or size to keep things fair.
Tip: Always check that your dog is physically fit, has no joint or heart conditions, and is comfortable in water before taking part.
Training for Dock Diving
Getting started is all about building confidence, consistency, and excitement around the water.
Start with play. Use your dog’s favourite toy to encourage them to jump into shallow water from the bank. Reward them heavily for retrieving it.
Gradually increase height. Move up to low platforms or docks once they’re comfortable. Never force them. Enthusiasm and trust are key.
Work on focus and drive. Teach them to wait at the start of the dock, then release on command. The better the timing between your throw and their jump, the longer their leap will be.
If you’re unsure where to start, look for a local dock diving club. Most offer taster sessions or beginner workshops with experienced instructors who’ll introduce your dog safely to the sport.
What You’ll Need
Dock diving doesn’t require much specialist gear, but there are a few essentials.
- Floating toy or bumper: Soft, buoyant, and easy for your dog to grip.
- Well fitted harness or collar: Avoid restrictive gear.
- Towel or drying coat: To keep them warm after sessions.
- Life jacket (optional): Helpful for beginners or smaller dogs.
Many facilities provide everything you need for a first session, so you can try it without major investment.
Where to Try Dock Diving in the UK
Dock diving pools are becoming more common, with dedicated centres and mobile setups appearing at events and country shows. A few popular options include:
- Dock Diving UK (Peterborough)
- K9 Aqua Sports
- Canine Dip and Dive Club (Suffolk)
- The Soggy Dog Co (Hertfordshire)
- Preston Trick Dogs (Lancashire)
K9 Aqua Sports crew love to have fun with all the dogs, both jumping and swimming, we believe that Dock Diving brings together many different great qualities from many other dog sports, including obedience with sit, stay and recall, Agility and Flyball with running and jumping, Hydrotherapy with swimming in the pool. Dock Diving is all about having fun with your dog, while being great for your dog’s fitness and confidence.
Gemma Kemeny-Ruff, K9 Aqua Sports
Always check ahead to confirm taster days or club membership requirements.
Benefits of Dock Diving
Beyond being enormous fun, dock diving offers great physical and mental benefits for your dog.
- Builds muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness
- Boosts confidence in water
- Provides mental stimulation through play and training
- Strengthens your bond through teamwork
It’s a fantastic way to channel high energy into something positive, especially for working or sporting breeds.
Getting Started
If your dog already loves a splash, you’re halfway there. Find a local pool, bring their favourite toy, and let them discover the joy of leaping into water with you cheering them on.
Whether you end up competing or simply doing it for fun, dock diving is one of the most rewarding ways to keep your dog active and engaged.
Final Thoughts
Dock diving is an exciting, inclusive, and endlessly entertaining dog sport that any water loving dog can enjoy. From small jumps at a local pool to soaring leaps at national competitions, it’s all about confidence, play, and the shared thrill of that big splash.
If you’re looking for your next adventure together, give dock diving a try. You might just discover your dog’s new favourite sport.