Dog carting, also known as dog drafting or dry sledding, is a sport that involves dogs of any breed pulling a cart. Historically, dogs were used to pull carts containing items ranging from meat and livestock to other supplies where horses were not available. The modern sport of dog carting is open to all breeds, but large breeds like Bernese Mountain Dogs and St. Bernards are commonly used in the sport.
Dog carting can be enjoyed by anyone, and no formal training is required. However, participating dogs should have basic training and get used to wearing a harness and pulling a cart. Groups and clubs can be found worldwide, and they welcome new entrants. Here are some interesting facts about dog carting and answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Dog Drawn Cart Facts
1. Drafting Dogs Were Used During World War I
Dogs have been used by militaries, but historically, they were used as fighting dogs. During World War I, drafting dogs were used to pull carts containing supplies and small field guns across difficult terrain. These dogs not only had to remain calm under fire, but they had to be capable of pulling weights and traversing challenging ground.
2. Dog Carting Is Open To All Breeds
Although the sport is commonly associated with large breeds, dogs of any size and breed can take part in carting. Clubs are open to all and cart sizes will depend on the size of the dog. Your dog should enjoy physical exercise and have some basic commands to participate in the sport.
3. Bernese Mountain Dogs Are the Breed Most Often Associated with Dog Carting
Bernese Mountain Dogs have historically been used for practical drafting purposes, including pulling carts filled with milk and other dairy products. Their size, strength, and willingness made them the obvious choice. Bernese Mountain Dogs remain one of the most popular carting breeds today.
4. Carting Is Often Used To Keep Sled Dogs In Shape
Dry sledding, or carting, is used to keep sled dogs in shape during the summer months when there is no snow. Breeds like Huskies and Malamutes, which would normally pull sleds, need to retain their stamina and muscle.
5. Dogs Should Be Physically Mature Before They Start Pulling Carts
Dog carting has no age restrictions, but dogs should be fully developed before they start pulling carts. In some dogs, this means waiting until they are 12 months old, while large breeds like the Bernese Mountain Dog should wait until they are two years old. Basic commands and a harness should be introduced while the dogs are young.
6. The Most Common Harness Used Is the Siwash
Although cheaper alternatives are available, the most commonly used harness is called a Siwash. This harness spreads the weight of the load, making it more comfortable for the dog and enabling it to drag heavier weights.
7. An Alaskan Malamute Holds the World Record For Pulling 5,400 Pounds
Alaskan Malamutes are popular carting breeds because they are accustomed to wearing a harness and pulling weights. One Alaskan Malamute, named Delbert, holds the world record for pulling the heaviest weight. Delbert pulled 5,400 pounds of weight to set the record.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Dog Breeds Can Take Part In Carting?
Despite being associated with large breeds, any dog breed can take part in carting. However, it might be difficult to find suitable equipment for small breeds. Bernese Mountain Dogs, St. Bernards, Mastiffs, Huskies, Malamutes, and other breeds that enjoy physical exercise and strength training take part in the sport.
How Old Does a Dog Need To Be Before Carting?
Dogs should not pull carting weights until they are fully physically developed, usually between the age of 12 months and 2 years depending on the breed. However, younger dogs can benefit from training and agility classes. Dogs should be introduced to a harness at a young age.
Does a Dog Need To Be Trained Before Carting?
No specific training is required for carting. Basic obedience training should be provided. Commands such as sit, stay, go, left, right, faster, and slower should be part of a dog’s training. It ensures dogs can listen to commands while taking part in the sport.
What Equipment Is Needed?
At the very least, a collar, leash, harness, cart, and shafts, and tracers connecting to the cart are needed. Carts’ size and the weight depend on the dog’s size. Soft weight like sandbags or dumbbells is needed for the carting.
Conclusion
Carting is a canine sport that was once a functional means of using dogs to pull weights and carts from one location to another. Although any breed can take part in modern drafting events, it is usually enjoyed by large and strong dog breeds. Beginning training and getting dogs used to harnesses at a young age is crucial to their success. Before dogs take part in carting, they must be fully physically developed and healthy.
Dog carting can be an enjoyable and beneficial activity for both owners and their dogs. Once introduced, as long as they enjoy physical exercise and have some basic commands down, dogs will be able to participate in carting. It is a unique and fun way to bond with your furry friend, exercise, and stay active.
