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SMALL DOG
ACTIVITIES FOR THE POMERANIAN
Although
the Pomeranian is small in stature, they possess the
attitude of their
larger counterparts. Keeping them busy is the secret to
preventing trouble from arising. This article will outline
the activity of “carting”. Yes – these little bundles of
fur are quite capable of pulling carts (soundness of
individuals should be confirmed by your veterinarian prior
to beginning any activity). Carts should be built in
proportion to the dog’s size and the dog fitted with a
harness that is comfortable. Comfort is the main
requirement when fitting a harness.
By
introducing the dogs to the harness first, and allowing them
to wear the harness around the yard or house (supervised at
all times), they soon learn it does not impede their
movement.
When the
dog is comfortable with the harness, the shafts are then
attached to the sides of the harness or the girth strap.
This is an important step, by putting the dog in between
these two shafts, they are becoming vulnerable to danger
from other dogs, and they must be sure that you are there to
protect them. These training sessions are kept short and
the cart is only attached when the dog is once again
comfortable with the shafts and the harness.
These
training methods are very easy, by using a clicker and
treats – (wonderful treats that the dog loves – not just
his/her everyday kibble) their good behavior is reinforced
with treats. Usually cart training can be accomplished in a
very short time.
Never ask
the dogs to pull more than 10-15 lbs including the weight of
the cart. It would be wonderful to see the carting
regulations adjusted for the different weights of the
participants, however, until that time, we will continue to
participate only in the fun events such as parades and
demonstrations.
Our
Pomeranians participate in many of the performance events,
and the smaller breeds are very capable of doing most
activities that are performed by the larger breeds. Common
sense is required to know the dog’s abilities, and soundness
is the first requirement.
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