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Bikejoring Experience
EXPERIENCE SOMETHING DIFFERENT... BIHEJORING IS SPREADING GLOBALY...
Dogs love to be active and play outside, preferably with you. Pet owners looking for a new and exciting way to exercise their dogs while staying active themselves should consider the thrilling sport of Bikejoring. Below, we offer an in-depth look at Bikejoring and all its aspects.
WHAT IS BIKEJORING...
Bikejoring is yet another sport that involves the participation of both an athlete and a dog. It is similar to the traditional mushing, a sled dog race. In this case, a single dog or a team of dogs is attached to a bicycle. Subsequently, in collaboration with the rider and with their assistance, they run on a trail or dirt path suitable for this activity. Cycling or exercising with your dog can be integrated into your daily walk through specially marked safe routes.
Your dog needs exercise. Why exercise with him through Bikejoring? Read below to learn how to get started and if your dog is suitable for this exciting sport.
Photos by Camille Paris
WE RUN FOR OUR DOG'S HEALTH
STARTING WITH BIKEJORING
Before you start the Bikejoring you should know that the dog has completed the 18th month. The first thing to consider is your dog. Does he enjoy running? If so, then he’s a good candidate for Bikejoring. The second is the level of physical fitness. If your dog hasn’t been exercising properly, then you may need to engage with him consistently to bring him to the level of physical fitness you need.
Training begins with walking. If your dog tends to “weave” from one point to another when walking, it’s likely that he will do the same when you run with him. Unless you help him yourself. Therefore, you should first teach him how to walk with you in a way that you desire. Keep him on a leash and try to familiarize him with verbal commands.
Once he starts obeying your commands and walks in the right way, you can reinforce his ability. He needs to get used to wearing the harness and pulling a weight (as much as he feels comfortable). You may need to try training with him initially, being the assumed weight yourself. This includes positioning yourself as the weight on the dog. Once you realize that the dog is pulling your weight and following commands, you can increase his strength. Attach your dog to a weight and let it pull it in a designated area with your guidance and commands.
Every dog behaves differently, so training is a personal experience for both you and your dog. It would be advisable to consult with or seek guidance from a trainer or training center.
Before you start running with him in combination with the bike, you should find a suitable training route to avoid straining your dog. Without particular difficulties, i.e. uphills or natural obstacles.
If you’re considering taking your dog to a Bikejoring event, there are a few things you need to know before registering for your first race. Dogs need to be trained. Otherwise, they will lead you off course. They also need to be trained to behave well with other dogs. The last thing you need to know is that your dog will pull you immediately when it spots another rider because it wants to play with the other dog.
[RESPECT YOUR DOG]
INTERNATIONAL BASIC COMMANDS
There are some essential commands that your dog needs to know to prepare for Bikejoring. The most important command is ‘Stop. Other important commands to teach them include Slow, Leave It, Gee (general command for right), Haw (general command for left), Straight, Hike or Mush (to start), Yield, and On (to turn away from an object). Get guidance from a trainer on properly delivering the commands.
GIVE GREAT IMPORTANCE TO THE EQUIPMENT
EQUIPMENT
Your first equipment should be a mountain bike.It should be durable and capable of handling extreme conditions. If possible, use two bikes—one could be steel for training, and the other aluminum or carbon for races. Along with the bike, you should get a helmet and a pair of glasses for your safety. Helmets should always be worn when you are on the bike. The glasses should be impact-resistant, as it is likely to have a lot of gravel falling on your face and body.
Gloves are a good idea to avoid injuries to the hands from dirt or falls. On your bike, you should have attached mirrors so you can see what’s happening behind you. Small side bags are one last thing you should include on your bike. This allows you to carry emergency equipment. You should also have a water bottle or bottles with water for yourself and your dog. Your bike may also need repairs, so it’s a good idea to bring equipment to fix it in case of damage..
You will also need a 2.8m Bungee leash that connects the dog to the bike. If you have more than one dog, then you will need a double leash This is the connecting line that keeps the dogs together. The most important accessory is the Bike Antenna, which helps prevent the Bungee leash from getting tangled in the front wheel. The antenna attaches to the bike’s handlebars. The harness is another crucial piece of equipment for your dog. You’ll need to get it to fit them perfectly. Booties are another protective aid your dog can benefit from when running on hard surfaces.
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