Dog scootering is a kind of summer dog sled sports, which is perfect for handlers and canines, who like active lifestyle. Dog scootering trials are organized by sports fans.
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Dog scootering is a scooter riding with a dog running at heels. Another variant is when the dog pulls the scooter with a rider. The sport is good for dog's health. It also helps active dogs, which like running, to burn energy excess. Muscles, heart are trained; endurance is developed due to scootering, the dog gets tired in a day, as a result it has keen appetite and sleeps well.
Basics
One person, who rides
the scooter, and one or more dogs, which pull the scooter,
running in front or along it, take part in this activity.
Special unmotorized kick scooter is needed for this sport. Dogs
of any breed and size, which aged 18 months, are allowed.
However, it is recommended for the dog to be no less than 13 kg
in weight or take 2 dogs with less weight.
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The most important, dogs should be well trained and be able to pull the scooter with the riding handler. German Shepherds, Retrievers, Husky and Schnauzers are the most popular breeds in dog scootering.
Scooter
It should be with big tires, front and rear brakes, comfy non-slip mat and damping handlebar.
Dog Scootering Equipment
For handler: helmet, knee and elbow pads.
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For dog: sled dog harness (X-back or shoulder harness), gangline (bungee line), collar, neckline (for 2 dogs), single or double lead tug with bungee, dog shoes (for rough surfaces and long rides).
Dog Scootering Training
It is recommended to start training sessions when the dog aged 12 months. Start with short distances, increase them gradually and don't be hasty. If the dog doesn't overtire, it will enjoy running and connect training with positive experience. The dog will be certainly engaged with scootering next time.
Don't make your dog pull the scooter. Just ride it and let the dog run at your heels without the harness for the beginning. Then you can put the harness on the dog and motivate it to pull the scooter. The dog should perceive everything as a game, let the canine think that it just runs on the leash along beside you. Dismount the scooter before going uphill or other obstacles so that not to overload the dog.
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You can also motivate your dog otherwise. Ask someone to help you. He or she should ride the scooter in front of the dog and call it. It is important to encourage and to reward the dog.
The process of training will be faster if the dog has already learn basic commands for scootering, such as "Left", "Right", "Stop", "Ahead". All these commands are learned easily while dog walking on the leash.
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Stop gently and ride the scooter carefully so that just to show the dog moving direction if it hasn't learnt the commands yet enough.
Recommends
Morning or evening, when it is not hot, is the best time for dog scootering training. The dog may get heat exhaustion during long trials when it is hot outside. Make breaks. Take water for your dog and you.
Avoid pavements and sealed roads in the heat because the dog can burn its paws running along the hot surface. Check your dog's paws during long trials to prevent injuries.
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Read also about dryland dog racing.