It's really a lot of fun to get out with other people owned by huskies and enjoy how much the dogs love being together. They are truly pack animals!
The class covers the full-spectrum: harness fit, line systems, dog positions, steering a sled and, of course, training of the dog.
The black & white dog in the forefront of this photo is one of two "lead dogs" on this team. The four dogs in the middle are the "swing dogs" and the two closest to the sled are the "wheel dogs". This team is attached to the towline in a double file position, a popular choice. Single file is more often used if you are traveling in heavily wooded areas or on very narrow trail.
On the left are Cory and Marley (in the purple harness). At first our instructor told us that at 7 months, Marley was still pretty young, and might not "pick it up" in one class. After learning our commands during the block pull, Marley was attached with a seasoned sled dog.
Here, Cory had just turned the sled around to come back. You can tell that Marley isn't pulling much weight, but he's starting to get the idea...and he didn't need much encouragement to come back towards Mom :)
Here's a close-up. That's Marley, on the left, at 7 months old and already as tall as his 4 year old counterpart. Notice the yellow double-lead that keeps the dogs together. You have to be careful about choosing dogs that will get along and lead together!
This is one of two aluminum, wheeled sleds owned by SHA. Once you get rolling, you stand behind the seat on two raised "flexi skis" and lean into your turns.
When I look at this picture, I just can't get over how big Marley is! Dakota almost looks small....she of course came with us, but isn't allowed to pull because of her arthritic hips. She didn't mind, watched with bemusement and played princess around all the handsome boy dogs :)
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