Point and Paw Dummies: 250g vs 500g — Which One Should You Choose?
If you’ve ever stood there holding two training dummies and thought, “Right… which one is actually best for my dog?”, you’re not alone.
At Point and Paw, we keep things simple: the best dummy is the one that matches your dog’s stage, size, and the job you’re asking them to do. Our 250g and 500g dummies are both brilliant training tools — they just shine in different moments.
Here’s a clear, no-nonsense guide to help you pick the right weight (and get more out of every retrieve).
Why dummy weight matters more than people think
Dummy weight isn’t just about “light vs heavy.” It affects:
Confidence (especially for young or inexperienced dogs)
Mouth comfort and grip
Carrying style (calm hold vs chomping/playing)
Stamina and fatigue
Realism (how closely training matches what you’ll do in the field)
Choosing the right weight helps your dog build good habits early—and avoids problems like reluctant picking-up, sloppy delivery, or switching off mid-session.
The 250g Dummy: confidence, speed, and clean technique
Best for:
Puppies and young dogs starting retrieves
Smaller breeds or lighter-mouthed dogs
Fast, fun sessions that build enthusiasm
Improving delivery and neat handling
Warmer days or longer training sessions (less fatigue)
A 250g dummy is the go-to for building happy, confident retrieving. It’s light enough that your dog can pick it up easily and carry it without effort—so they focus on the game and the skill, not the struggle.
Why you’ll love it:
Great for early training: helps avoid “I don’t want to pick it up” moments
Encourages speed: lighter weight often means faster returns
Cleaner holds: less strain can mean a calmer mouth
Perfect for repetition: ideal for drills where you’re doing multiple retrieves
When 250g is the smarter choice:
If your dog is still learning the basics—pick up, hold, return, deliver to hand—250g keeps it positive and consistent.
The 500g Dummy: strength, realism, and steadiness
Best for:
Older or more experienced dogs
Building strength and stamina
Preparing for heavier retrieves and real-world work
Slowing down “too fast and frantic” retrieves
Dogs that need a bit more “purpose” in their carry
A 500g dummy adds a level of realism and challenge. It asks your dog to commit to the retrieve, carry with a bit more intention, and work through slightly more physical effort.
Why you’ll love it:
More realistic training: closer to the feel of heavier game
Builds carrying strength: especially helpful as training progresses
Encourages steadier returns: some dogs naturally calm down with a heavier dummy
Great for advanced drills: longer distances, obstacles, varied terrain
When 500g is the smarter choice:
If your dog already retrieves confidently and you want to level up—500g helps build capability and reliability.
So… 250g or 500g? Here’s the quick decision guide
Choose 250g if:
Your dog is young, small, or new to retrieving
You want to build confidence and speed
You’re doing lots of repetitions in one session
You’re focusing on clean delivery and enthusiasm
Choose 500g if:
Your dog is experienced and physically ready
You want more realism and strength-building
Your dog gets overexcited and needs steadier work
You’re training for longer retrieves or tougher terrain
The best answer for most dogs: use both
If you’re training regularly, having both weights is a bit like having both a short lead and a long line—each has its moment.
A simple approach that works well:
Start sessions with 250g to warm up and keep technique sharp
Move to 500g for a few “serious” retrieves
Finish with 250g to end on speed, confidence, and a win
That mix keeps training positive, progressive, and practical.
A quick note on quality (because it matters)
A dummy is only useful if it holds up and feels right in your dog’s mouth. At Point and Paw, we’re focused on high-quality, sustainably sourced products—because training gear should be reliable, safe, and built for real use.
Ready to choose your dummy?
If you tell me:
your dog’s breed/age
their current retrieving level (new / improving / solid)
what you’re training for (pet adventure retrieves, gundog work, or both)
…I’ll recommend the best starting weight and a simple progression plan you can follow week to week.
