Knut Fuchs Training Dumbbell HAVATAR 650g - Dog Sport Supply Company

Knut Fuchs Training Dumbbell HAVATAR 650g

$44.00 USD
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Sporthund HAVATAR Training Dumbbell — 650g

Designed by Knut Fuchs · Built for IGP/IPO Retrieving Work · Anti-Gnaw System · Beechwood Construction

The HAVATAR is not your average retrieving wood. Designed by renowned IGP trainer Knut Fuchs, this dumbbell was engineered specifically to solve the most common problem in retrieving — gnawing and chewing. Using an adjustable side panel system, the HAVATAR physically guides your dog into a correct, calm hold in the front of the mouth — and keeps it there. Your dog learns the right behavior almost on its own. This is a complete training system, not just a piece of wood.

  • Anti-gnaw side panel system: Adjustable side panels move via Allen key to restrict the dog to a front-of-mouth hold. When the dog shifts the dumbbell, the wood presses against the widening muzzle — making a calm, firm grip the most comfortable option.
  • Prevents throwing back: The side panel geometry discourages the common habit of tossing or flipping the wood during the hold, giving you cleaner, more consistent pictures.
  • Two interchangeable bars included: A flat bar for teaching a calm hold, and a round bar for transitioning to trial-regulation compliance — both with a continuous bore for optional cord attachment.
  • Extra-long bars: The extended length makes it easy for the handler to hold the dumbbell sideways and present it cleanly to the dog during early training stages.
  • Cord-ready: Both bars feature a continuous bore so a cord or line can be added and used with or without the side panels.
  • Solid beechwood construction: Durable, dense, and appropriately weighted at 650g for IGP trial standards.
  • Registered utility model: This is a patented training tool — not a generic dumbbell.

What's in the Box

  • 1x Round bridge / bar with continuous bore
  • 1x Flat bridge / bar with continuous bore
  • 2x Adjustable side panels with Allen screw fixings
  • 1x 1.5 meter cord (can be cut as needed — e.g., 2 × 0.75m)
  • 1x Allen key

Specs

  • Weight: 650g (approximately 1.43 lbs in Freedom Units 🦅)
  • Material: Solid beechwood
  • Regulation: IGP/IPO trial compliant (with round bar)
  • Designer: Knut Fuchs
  • Brand: Sporthund

How the Anti-Gnaw System Works

  • Step 1: Use the Allen key to position the side panels closer together, restricting the dog to a front-of-mouth pick-up.
  • Step 2: If the dog shifts or gnaws, the wood naturally presses against the widening muzzle — making movement uncomfortable and a still hold more pleasant.
  • Step 3: As the dog develops a reliable hold, gradually widen the side panels and transition to the round bar for trial-regulation compliance.

Important note: The HAVATAR is a hold and carry training tool — it is not designed for throwing or fetch on hard surfaces. The side panels have threaded inserts that can crack if thrown forcefully onto pavement or concrete. Use it for hold development, presentation work, and calm retrieves. Put it away between sessions to protect the adjustment mechanism.

Designed by Knut Fuchs. Built by Sporthund. Used by IGP trainers who are serious about correct retrieving.

FAQs

How is the HAVATAR different from a standard IGP dumbbell? A standard dumbbell is just wood — it does nothing to correct gnawing, chewing, or incorrect hold position. The HAVATAR has adjustable side panels that physically limit where in the mouth the dog can hold it, and the geometry of the wood creates natural pressure against a restless grip. It teaches correct behavior through mechanics, not just repetition.
Which bar should I start with — flat or round? Start with the flat bar. The extended, flat profile makes it easier for the handler to present the dumbbell sideways to the dog and helps the dog learn a calm, still hold from the beginning. Once your dog has a reliable hold, switch to the round bar, which is regulation-compliant for IGP/IPO trials.
Can I use the HAVATAR for throwing and fetch? No — and this is important. The HAVATAR is a hold development tool, not a fetch toy. The side panels have threaded inserts that can crack if thrown hard onto pavement, concrete, or other hard surfaces. Use it for hold work, calm retrieves, and presentation exercises only. If you need a dumbbell for throw retrieves, keep a separate standard wood for that.
Is the HAVATAR legal for IGP/IPO competition? Yes — when configured with the round bar and side panels removed (or set to the widest position), the HAVATAR meets IGP/IPO trial dumbbell regulations. The round bar is specifically included for this purpose. Always verify with your trial judge if you have any questions about equipment compliance at a specific event.
What does 650g feel like in real-world terms? 650g is approximately 1.43 lbs in Freedom Units 🦅 — about the weight of a can of soup, or a little less than a standard water bottle. It's the regulation weight for IGP Phase B retrieves and is appropriate for most working-breed adult dogs.
Can I add a cord to the HAVATAR? Yes — both the flat and round bars have a continuous bore running through them so a cord can be threaded and used for additional control during hold work or early retrieves. A 1.5 meter cord is included in the set and can be cut to length as needed (for example, two 0.75m sections).