Most of our harnesses and merchandise are geared around weight pulling.
The wonderful thing about weight pulling is that it is a way for owners
to interact with their dogs in a relatively inexpensive way with no
previous experience required. Breed clubs and organizations like
the UKC, APA, and IWPA offer competitions for all dogs. Working
dog titles can be earned so you can take it as far as you want to.
Your primary concerns are to get a quality harness that fits properly
and to condition your dog. Take measurements multiple times until
you are confident they are accurate. A harness that doesn't fit
right can cause injury. After the harness is purchased, you are
ready to begin training your dog to pull. This training can lead
to competitive weight pulls, but you can also use this whole concept for
conditioning your dog. Yes, training is necessary regardless of
the "my dog loves to pull" theory. Dogs have to be trained to pull
with correct form. Dogs have to be trained to become conditioned.
Just as we can't begin lifting weights today that would win a
body-building contest, it takes time to build up your dog's stamina and
strength.
The only other items you need are an old tire, an eye hook, and a scrap
piece of 2x4. I found that our local tire store is more than happy
to give me an old, rimless tire. Size of the tire needs to be
based on the size of your dog. Drill a hole through the tire.
Insert eye hook by screwing it into scrap 2x4 that is laid in the wheel
well. You now have a conditioning weight that cost you around
$2.00 for the eye hook. The only other purchase I recommend is to
buy a heavy duty 20' tie-out with clips on both ends. This costs
approximately $20.00 at discount stores. The tie-out at 20' keeps
the tire from ever crashing into the back of your dog, preventing injury
and fear. Begin with pulling a very short distance and build up
from there.
When beginning weight pull training, the main key is PATIENCE.
Each dog has a different learning curve, learning style, and you use
whatever method works. Be consistent in commands and praises used.
When I want my dogs to pull I use the command "Work". As soon as
they respond, the praise begins "Good boy," or "Good girl," and it alone
is repeated unless a correction is needed. Always reward your dog
with love and praise when they accomplish even the smallest victory.
I train my dogs on leash. I can keep their focus, keep them under
control, and make necessary adjustments.
Finally, a successful day of weight pulling is not about your dog
winning a weight pull or setting a world record. Instead it is
about time spent with your dog having fun working together. This
is a sport for any size dog and any age owner. And what a cheap
diet plan for both of you as you condition together! So make
training time enjoyable and beneficial for both of you. Don't get
frustrated as success is measured in inches. And always have FUN
while weight pull training.