You’ve probably heard of carting if you have a Bernese mountaindog. Carting is a strenuous activity that requires a lot more physical activity than most Bernese dogs are capable of. Giving your Bernese something to do on a regular basis will keep them calm and happy. Here are some tips for training your Bernese mountain dog to cart.
To train your dog to cart, you’ll need to get him used to the idea of pulling a cart. The first step is to teach your dog to stay while a cart is being drawn up to him. Next, bring the cart to your dog and unharness him. Eventually, the dog will get the hang of carting and you’ll have a fun event to remember.
The harness that connects the cart and the dog should be well-made, comfortable for both the dog as well as the human. Although leather is the most common material, other materials are also possible. A leather harness is more durable and requires less maintenance, but occasional use of saddle soap can help prevent cracking and maintain a good finish. The harness should also fit properly so that there are no pressure points or loose spots.
You’ll find the right design for you, whether you need a cart to transport your Bernese mountain dog or a traditional competition cart. The Rosti’s Cart is an economical, durable and versatile cart for any level of competition. You can order a pre-cut kit at Helmbolds Woodworks, or you can buy one online. Many carts allow for high levels of customization.
In order to train your Bernese mountain dog for carting, it is important to make sure your dog has good general health. This means that it has undergone a good amount of exercise, is well-balanced, and has large, firm wheels. However, even though your dog is fit for carting, you should make sure it is sound and has the necessary bones. If you’re not sure, you can ask breed enthusiasts for advice about carting.
Some dogs will happily pull a cart. Others will run or freeze if the cart is too close to their face. While many of these situations can be dangerous, it’s best to take a slow approach until your dog has a relaxed disposition and is comfortable pulling a cart. A few minutes of slow progress at first will help prevent any fear of corners and will ensure your dog is ready to learn the technique. You can gradually increase the weight of the cart, so your dog won’t become accustomed to pulling a heavy cart.
Don’t be afraid to cart your Bernese Mountain Dog. You can find many books on the breed online. The Bernese Mountain Dog breed club has a wealth of information on the breed. They also host fun days and serious shows. If you’re looking for a fun activity, you can enter your dog in agility competitions or compete in obedience. You can also enter your dog in the Kennel Club’s Good Citizen Award or Character Assessing Program.