Need Help Getting Started? Nordkyn Outfitters Tips and Pointers

If possible, see if there are any working seminars put on by the various clubs and individuals around the country. The seminars put on in our area generally encompass all the basics you need to train for the various types of draft work, a discussion of equipment to go with your kind of dog and the type of work you are going to do, how to fit the dog, conditioning, training, nutrition, rules applying to the various draft trials and working titles.

Skijoring

Skijoring is a fast-growing sport that allows you to enjoy winter activities with just one or two dogs. Training should be started with the dogs on a drag and you on foot (not on skis). Teach the dogs the basic commands before taking the dog out with skis. With a little pre-season preparation, you'll quickly gain confidence and speed!
For further reading, try Skijor With Your Dog.

Suggested Skijoring Equipment

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Sledding and Carting

To get started, try training your dog on foot. With your dog on a leash, teach the commands, "hike", "whoa", "gee" (right), "haw" (left), and "on by." You can then put a new dog with some already-trained dogs.
For further reading, try Dog Driver or Training Lead Dogs.

Suggested Sledding and Carting Equipment

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Weight Pulling

For most dogs, all you need to get started is is a used tire and a harness! The size of the tire is based on size of dog. Put an eye bolt in the side of the tire and use a 4-6' length of rope with a snap at each end of the rope. Snap one end of the rope to the harness and the other end to the tire. Although the tire itself may not weigh very much the surface area being dragged on the ground causes plenty of work for the dog. Small dogs and puppies may use a gallon plastic just with a little bit of gravel for noise. Young dogs need attitude and confidence built without physical stress.
For further reading, try Weight Pulling For Dogs or Teach Your Dog To Pull.

Suggested Equipment for Weight Pulling

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Packing

Packing with your dog can be a great summer activity -- especially if you have a tireless, energetic dynamo for a pet! Strong dogs should be able to carry up to 30% of their body weight. Be sure to carry enough water for your dog, especially in hot weather. Booties should be included in your doggie first aid kit in case of a cut or bruise. On the trail be sure your dog is under control at all times. Nothing is worse when hiking with your dog to come around a blind curve on a narrow trail and run into a loose or out of control dog. All people experienced in hiking with their dogs have their favorite way of doing things. Our favorite is to teach our dogs the specific command "behind". We like the dogs behind us so when we round a blind turn and run into the loose or uncontrolled dog, we see it before our dogs do and have better control of the situation. Be a good citizen and clean up after your dog. Lets keep our dogs welcome in the National Forests and other public hiking areas. Remember, dogs are not permitted on most trails in National Parks.
Suggested reading -- Backpacking With Your Dog.

Suggested Equipment for Backpacking

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