Early November training is going well. The SP Kennel adult racers are on a similar schedule to last season’s plan. We are gradually increasing their mileage which improves their endurance along with their attitudes. We like each dog to come back from a training run and be tired but not exhausted.
The yearlings are training at a slightly slower rate than the adults. These youngsters are basically teenagers who are experiencing everything for the first time. Our yearling team learns from positive reenforcement and praise. There’s nothing better than training a young dog to love the sport of dog mushing as much as we do.
Chemo and Beemer lead the team on the left and I.V. and Ranger lead the team on the right. There were a total of 31 dogs, two mushers and two ATV 4 wheelers on this 3-hour training run.
Training sled dogs is challenging. Our dog always give 110% in harness. So, it is our responsibility to never ask them to do more than is good for them – physically or mentally. The ultimate goal is to bring healthy and happy dogs to the starting line of some fantastic races later this season.
I love seeing these dogs doing what they love. I hope one day I can meet you, and be able to work as a handler for one of the racing kennels.
What great looking dog teams. You have some snow, how long before you run the sleds? Beemer is looking wonderful there with Chemo. How is Quito doing?
Lucky, lucky dogs, and hard working busy handlers!
Glad to see you have some snow….hope it keeps coming so you can trade in the ATVs for sleds! Chemo is looking happy to be out on snowy trails too! Your training concepts sound rock solid for a fantastic upcoming season! I for one can't wait!!!
You all are amazing. Dogs look great and someday, I hope to be there at the great race helping you all out.
Thanks so much for this photo! And so nice to see snow!!!
What a handsome group of dogs! They seem eager to be getting on down the trail and getting in racing shape!!!
Woof, woof!!!
–Margaret
Those are some VERY HAPPY looking dogs! What a perfect combination of mushers and dogs!
I love that you make this a great experience for the dogs. It's an adventure and not a chore!!! No wonder your kennel is so sucessful.