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Originally Posted by Maximo  I'm not sure what you mean relative to knees bending. The back legs are bent in the sit position. My concern with Max was that he fell over on his back, so I don't do this trick with him. Many dogs do it safely and naturally. |
Aw! Poor Max! Lol! For dogs with balance issues, this trick can first be taught with a wall behind the dog, or with the dog between your feet using your lower legs to balance against. I always have my hands ready to assist, some will put a paw on my hand for balance in the beginning. After a few times (or more, regular practice) their muscles will develop and they'll be able to sit up on their own.
The main problems in younger dogs under 1 year (I think) of age occur with high impact tricks... in agility training over jumps and such. Also in teaching a handstand too early.