Cato Boards & Planks: Essential Platforms for Professional Gun Dog Training
 
Elevate your gun dog training to pro levels with the Cato Plank XL Platform, a durable, versatile place board designed specifically for obedience, steadiness, and advanced hunting skills. Perfect for gun dog enthusiasts training Pudelpointers, Pointers, Retrievers, and other bird dogs, these USA-made platforms offer unmatched stability and traction for safe, effective sessions in the field or at home. Whether you're building impulse control for upland hunting, reinforcing retrieves in waterfowl scenarios, or teaching basic "place" commands, Cato Boards help your dog develop the focus and discipline needed for peak performance. Available exclusively at Black Mesa Gun Dog Supply, your veteran-owned source for premium gun dog gear.
 
Key Features of Cato Board Dog Training Platform:
 
No-Tip Design: Engineered to prevent flipping, even with energetic gun dogs during intense drills.
High-Traction Surfaces: Choose Turf for a natural, grass-like feel or Rubber for bi-directional grip – safe and comfortable for all-weather use in gun dog training.
Durable Construction: Made from non-absorbent, molded material that won't crack or chip, with integrated water drainage and air-flow underneath to reduce grass damage.
Stackable & Portable: Easy to transport and store, ideal for NAVDHA, NSTRA, or AKC events and group hunts.
Ultra-Stable on Uneven Terrain: High-grip rubber feet prevent sliding on hard surfaces like wood, tile, or concrete (replacement feet available).
Dimensions & Weight: 16" wide x 24" long x 3.5" high; Turf: 6.5 lbs, Rubber: 7.25 lbs.
Color Options: Teal, Blue, Black, Yellow, Olive Green, Orange, Brown, Pink, Purple, White, Green, Lilac – select for visibility in various hunting terrains.
Proudly Made in the USA: Built for longevity and reliability in demanding gun dog environments.
 
Key Features of Cato Plank XL Platform:
 
Versatile XL Design: Standalone platform for clean fronts, crisp downs, or extended place training; pairs with the optional Cato Tilt Stand for multi-height teeter (2", 5", or 10" travel) or adjustable incline board.
Advanced Training Capabilities: Ideal for building balance and confidence in gun dogs on rough hunting grounds; use additional planks/boards for steeper inclines.
Bi-Directional Non-Slip Surface: Turf or Rubber options ensure secure footing during dynamic exercises like retrieves or agility drills.
Robust Build: Specially formulated HDPE for strength and stiffness, with 12 non-slip rubber feet for ultimate stability.
Dimensions & Weight: 12" wide x 36" long x 3.5" high; 9.6 lbs (Cato Tilt Stand adds 2 lbs, available in black).
Color Options: Yellow, Blue, Purple, Orange, Teal, Black – customizable for your gun dog training setup.
Proudly Made in the USA: Durable construction suited for high-performance gun dog work.
 
Why Choose Cato Boards & Planks for Gun Dog Training?
 
At Black Mesa Gun Dog Supply, we know gun dog training demands tools that withstand the rigors of the hunt. Cato Boards and Planks are field-tested by avid bird hunters and trainers like our founders, ensuring they deliver real results. Use them to teach steadiness to shot, impulse control amid distractions, and precise positioning – essential for safe upland and waterfowl hunts. Start with one board for basic "place" commands, then expand to multiples for complex drills like moving between stations or simulating blind retrieves. For advanced gun dog work, the Cato Plank with Tilt Stand enhances core strength and agility, reducing injury risk on uneven terrain. These platforms are a smart investment in your dog's hunting career.
 
Training Tips for Success:
 
Beginner Level: Lure your gun dog onto the board with treats or a dummy, rewarding all four paws on the platform to build positive associations.
Intermediate: Increase duration and distance, incorporating gun dog commands like whistles or hand signals for steadiness.
Advanced: Add distractions such as blank shots or bird scents; use the Plank for balance exercises to prep for real-world hunting challenges.
How Many Do You Need?: Start with 1-2 for solo training; 4+ for multi-dog or group sessions in NSTRA trials.
Surface Selection: Turf for outdoor realism in grassy fields; Rubber for all-weather grip during rainy hunts.
 
Shop Cato Boards and Planks at Black Mesa Gun Dog Supply today – your premier veteran- and women-owned retailer for Garmin e-collars, SportDOG systems, Dogtra trackers, and more. Join our community of hunters and trainers for expert advice and unbeatable service. Order now and transform your gun dog training!