Activities for Dogs
Dog Harness Activities: Sledding,
Skijoring, Bikjoring, Carting and Weight Pulling LinksThere is little doubt that some dogs just love to pull. They like to be out it front and they aren't the least bothered by putting quite a bit of effort into it. One of the things I liked about getting involved in dog sports was seeing that some dogs, like some people, really enjoy achieving difficult things. My Tanith loved to pull me. And often she would jump in the water and retrieve things that were both heavy and awkward. A few times she managed to find things to drag in that were too heavy for her to manage once she got them to shore. I once had her evaluated by a sports vet who commented on the excellent condition of her muscles due to pulling.
Now if you are looking for how to stop your dog from pulling try the book My Dog Pulls. What Do I Do? by Turid Rugaas.
One benefit of pulling is that the development of the muscles can often reduce the risks of increased deterioration in dogs with hip dysplasia. When the muscles are well developed they provide support and cushioning. Another benefit of pulling activites is just the additional time engaged with the dog. Roller blading, bikejoring, and dog scootering are good ways for dog and human to exercise together at a pace both enjoy. When dogs are well exercised they are less bored and less likely to have behavior problems.
While there are differences between these activities, sites that have information on one often cover the others.
A straight forward site offering basic safety tips and advice
Bikejoring is the wheeled version of skijoring, where your ride a bicycle with your dog pulling you.
Excellent detailed information on getting started in bikejoring.
Cani-cross (canine cross country) is running with your dog attached to you by harness and line (usually shock absorbing).
A great place to get basic information on this growing sport.
Article on Canicross in the United States.
An excellent place to get information on a variety of "dog powered" sports. It will help explain skijoring (you ski, the dog pulls you), weight pulling, sledding and carting. As a mixed breed owner I appreciate that the author troubled to note the participation of mixed breeds.
Is mushing fun for the dogs too? This question and more is answered here
What is the history of the sled dog? What are the kinds of sledding and sled dogs? What are the basic sledding terms? This site provides this basic information and more.
Dog sledding news and an information/experience sharing "Knowledge Center." The vision is to act as a central infomation site for mushing and sledding.
More on the sport of Skijoring, what it takes to get started, and where to go.
When last visited this web site did not provide full access. This one seems a little more oriented for the person already familiar with the sport. It does have an introductory page.
Yup, dog scootering. This site explains what it is, and how to get started. It includes reviewed links with useful comments for more dog scootering information, equipment, training and related harness activities.
Instead of pulling the scooter from in front this harness rig keeps the dog behind and to one side of the rider.
At last a page specific to the sport of pulling. Competition is open to all breeds including mixed breeds. Great! The author makes it all sound particularly friendly and helpful to the newcomer.
Lots of pictures and solid "getting started" advice.
It started as a very nice site, and is developing into a really great site about carting. Includes information on training, equipment, resources, tips and information on how to join a carting discussion group.
Carting with Rottweilers.
A short description of carting history and the basic requirements for considering the activity.
DogWorks
http://www.dogworks.com/
There is no reason a small dog can't be structurally sound, fit and athletic. I encourage people to enjoy dog sports with their small dogs. Might Mite Small Dog sports Forum is a message board for all dog sports open to handlers of dogs 16 inches at the shoulder or smaller. International focus, all breeds welcome.
| Books and Videos on Harness Sports | |||
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| Mush! Beginner's Manual Of Sled Dog Training | Skijor With Your Dog |
| Dog Sports T-Shirts & more like this: |
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Copyright © 1997-2003,
Diane Blackman
Created: January 17, 1997
Updated November 12, 2007
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