I hope to get some info from some people that draft or do agility work with their dogs. My rottie will be 2 yrs. in May, and is ripped at 110 lbs. He pulls the wagon 3/4 times a week 2/3 hours at a time. I chose a 4 wheel wagon as opposed to the 2 wheeler to eliminate any weight on his shoulders. Any weight he experiences is via draft lines that extend from the wagon to d-rings on his si-wash harness. His harness is custom fitted and padded at the pull points. We take frequent rest/water breaks. I also keep our routes very level. The only weight he pulls is the wagon (60 lbs.) and his buddy the Bichon (8 lbs.)The big boy seems to enjoy doing this and very often I must jog to keep up with him. When we finish, he runs in the yard and shows no sign of tiring.
Is it possible or likely that I am damaging his skeletal or muscle structure with this activity?
I know the Rotts in Europe were used for this purpose. We have a great time doing this and I hope we can continue without me having guilt trips.
Jerry
I don't know enough to really offer an "intelligent" opinion, but you could check with your vet. There are tons of draft sites on the internet which you could visit and probably get more info on how much, how fast.
I have done draft work with my Giant for years and have seen no ill effects. One thing you do have wrong though, with the 2 wheel carts the goal is to balance the load so that it isn't putting pressure on the dogs shoulders.
If you can't be a Good Example,then You'll just have to Serve as a Horrible Warning. Catherine Aird.
Theresa,
I have investigated the web for that info, there is very little written concerning the log term effect of pulling. The vets that I have asked are very vague about it probably because they have never been exposed to it where I live.
Richard,
I am aware of the balance requirement necessary in the 2-wheel cart. My dog participates in ASPCA fundraisers and he generally pulls kids and puppies for very short distances. I decided not to worry about the balance issue by going with 4-paw drive, sorry meant 4-wheel. Thanks for the input. Do your Giants enjoy the work?
How often do your work the big guys?
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