There isnt one method that fits all! Each dog comes with its own temperament, its own drive, its own level of confidence. We each have different resources: some of us have a pack of fully trained dogs, we may have friends that can help, or we may be on our own. Our personal level of fitness and abilities will also come into play.
The challenges each faces will not be the same from dog to dog. A dog that tends to pull on its leash will likely pick up on harness work more intuitively then the dog that never has. An anxious dog will not challenge you in the same ways as a more hard headed dog would. If you already train in other sports with your dog, you can expect to evolve differently than the next door home pet. And so on…
Off course, there is a lot to learn. There are general principles that make the communication with your dog smoother and the ongoing training more enjoyable for both of you. There are tricks and advice that can help with different situations but all of that only really comes together and makes sense as you get out and give it a try with your dog. .
If you want to get into harness dog sports, the best you can do is harness up your dog and give it a try!
It comes down to building a good working relationship with your dog, communicating your expectations and making it fun.
Start building that relationship, get to know your dog. Don’t be too afraid of making mistakes just make sure to keep it enjoyable and fun, for you and mostly for your dog.
You can start on your own or with friends! I do not believe that a beginners group class with your dog is the best way to provide a good first experience in harness sport for your dog. The “why’ of this is a subject for another post but the key here is you can start on your own, with friends, a group of other experienced adepts and have a much better start then from a class of beginners.
Once you have given it a try, you will have questions, you will have a better idea of your specific challenges and the advice you may be given or read will then make sense.
Here’s a few key advice for you when you give it a try:
- Keep it fun, do not make it a chore
- Do not overload your dog with excessive cheering and talking
- Stop before your dog gets bored or overwhelmed
Harness up, Go have FUN!