Yankee Alaskan Malamute Club of New England

The weather is turning cooler now and for those of you who work your dogs it is time to start getting them into condition! We have had a very hot summer, as if I need to tell you that, and so your mals are probably a bit out of shape. When you are ready to get them back to pulling, remember to go early in the day or later in the afternoon and begin with just a few miles, especially if they are in full coat.

Tire pulling is a good way to get them started. Remove the rim from an old tire and put an eye bolt into it. Make sure you have a good freighting harness and start them next to you if they are not used to the racket behind them. I found that if you run with them briefly they are not looking back . Then you can back off and give them more lead space. Make it fun for them and not uphill at first. Keep the adventures pulling short if it is there first time so they do not get sore muscles and then not want to do it again. About a mile is good on a flat surface for the first event. Be prepared for the beginner to want to turn around to see what is folloing them! Lines will get tangled and they will get all bogged up in their harness. Be patient and keep trying. By running beside them and encouraging them in a positive manner, you will both have a fun time. The rewards of them pulling the sled and learning voice commands will be there when the snow flies!

Have a great time.