There are essentially two kinds of linear vaults we can perform with our dogs. These vaults are defined by the disc placement and the point at which the dog makes the catch. Our dogs can Catch and Carry the disc or Stretch to Catch the Disc. Both are acceptable techniques, each with pros and cons and stylistic differences.

Catch and Carry

The Catch and Carry vault is by far the more popular of the two. In a Catch and Carry vault, we place the disc close to our body early, in relation to the dog’s trajectory. This allows the dog to get their target dialed in, make the catch then cruise through the air with the disc in their mouth.
Catch and Carry vaults, if well thrown, are much more safe than Stretch to Catch vaults. They are more safe, if well thrown, because the dog has much more time to get the landings dialed in. They catch the disc early then are able to work on the landing throughout the flight path.

If a Catch and Carry vault is not well thrown, they can be more dangerous than a Stretch to Catch vault because the initial trajectory is off based upon the dog working to catch the disc.

Stylistically, the Catch and Carry vault allows the dog to look real cool and easy going during a vault. The vault looks easy and there is little drama. Check out Mo after a Catch and Carry Butterfly Back Vault:

Stretch to Catch

The Stretch to Catch vault is relatively old school. The disc is placed further out away from the handler on the dog’s flight path. This asks the dog to launch a long way to get the target, to stretch way out there to make the catch.

Stretch to Catch vaults, with dogs that do not have a strong sense of self preservation, can be quite dangerous, as the dog has to lay themselves out there in order to make the catch. There is little time for the dog to dial in the landing after the catch. These vaults require strong throwing skills and a sensible dog.

In terms of stye, the Stretch to Catch vault is all about Drama. It makes the vault look like a herculean task. The Stretch to Catch vault highlights the scale and athleticism of the dog and the throwing and handling skills of the handler.

Here are Apryl and EZ Ryder doing a Stretch to Catch Vault back in the day:

Disc Dog Training Vaults and Overs