As pet owners, we’re often captivated by the curious behaviors and preferences of our canine companions. One particularly intriguing question that has long puzzled us is whether dogs genuinely enjoy the task of pulling carts, or if they secretly resent this activity.
In the past, dogs played a vital role in our communities, pitching in to haul goods to and from the market, and even providing a sustainable means of personal transportation. While dog carting has since evolved into a recreational and competitive sport, the practice still endures, leaving us to wonder: do dogs like pulling carts and find fulfillment in this endeavor, or is it simply a burden they bear?
Some have even gone so far as to brand dog carting as a cruel practice, but perhaps this perception stems from a misunderstanding of the nuances involved. You see, dog carting is a multifaceted activity with various forms and variations, each with its own unique set of demands and considerations.
Today, let’s uncover the truth and explore how this activity can positively impact their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Dog Carting vs. Sulky Driving vs. Weight Pulling: How Are They Different?
Dog carting takes many forms; it is important to learn about their nuances to ensure your furry pal’s well-being and enjoyment.
What Is Recreational and Competitive Dog Carting?
Dog carting is a fantastic activity any healthy dog can enjoy. A Chihuahua and Jack Russell Terrier can cruise the park in cute, customized carts. As a hobby, it is open to any doggie! Just be sure to invest in the right equipment, including a no–pull V harness for your dog.
But like bikejoring and other dog pulling sports, some competitions are exclusive to certain breeds. As a competitive sport, dog carting requires an expert handler and a confident dog with a solid foundation in obedience. The competition involves maneuvering exercises and long-distance freight hauls.
Canine participants will have to perform 90-degree turns, pass through various types of gates, serpentine around posts, and figure 8 around trees, among other things. Some maneuvering exercises require dogs to pull a specific weight in carts, and numerous distractions are coming from all directions
Depending on the location of the test, some freight hauls will take place in, around, and through suburban neighborhoods, as well as more rural areas and hiking trails. Some tests require a half-mile, while others require a full mile or more.
In addition to strength and endurance, competitive dog carting necessitates a dog’s complete focus, both physically and mentally, while pulling a cart.
Some of the more well-known breeds excelling at dog carting competitions are Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs, Saint Bernards, and Leonbergers.
What is Sulky Driving?
Sulky driving is a type of dog carting in which a single dog or a team of dogs pulls a two-wheeled cart called a sulky with a person riding aboard. The sulky should consist of lightweight materials with little to no weight on a dog’s back to prevent injury.
To be safe, the entire load should not weigh more than three times the weight of the dog pulling. If, for example, the sulky and driver weighed a total of 100 kg, the dog pulling must weigh at least 35 kg.
Sulky driving is similar to traditional sulky racing, adapted for dogs, and it provides a unique challenge and activity for both the dog and his human rider.
What Is Weight Pulling?
Weight pulling is an internationally recognized championship sport sanctioned by the United Kennel Club (UKC), the American Kennel Club (AKC), the American Pulling Alliance, and the International Weight Pull Association (IWPA).
Similar to competitive dog carting, it involves specially trained canines tethered to a large cart with wheels using a special harness. The goal of the sport is straightforward: dogs have to race to the finish line while pulling a cart loaded with heavyweights in the form of concrete or bricks. Usually, the trail is no more than 16 feet.
The sport has had the canine community divided for many years, but proponents argue that weight pulling can be a positive way for vigorous, muscular breeds to expend energy and strengthen their bond with their owners, plus the involvement of international associations lends a professional facet and credibility to an otherwise dangerous sport.
However, weight pulling is not for every dog. Stamina, power, speed, and explosiveness are crucial qualities in this all-encompassing sport. Ideal weight pulling breeds include the American Bully, American Pit Bull Terrier, American Bulldog, Olde English Bulldogge, Alaskan Malamute, and Siberian Husky.
In comparison to dog carting, it necessitates elite nutrition and a broader range of machinery, including resistance bands and hydrotherapy equipment. Canine weight pulling requires years of practice and training, with frequent supervision from vets.
Is Dog Carting Cruel?
Dog carting is not cruel if you approach it with care and consideration for your dog’s individual needs and capabilities. Each dog has its own physical and mental limits, just like people do, and it’s important to respect those boundaries. At its core, dog carting offers numerous benefits for your canine buddy.
Builds Strong, Lean Muscles
Canicross and swimming are great cardiovascular exercises, but they may need to be more effective at stimulating muscle growth in certain breeds, like muscular bullies and heavily built mastiff breeds.
On the other hand, dog carting allows for progressive overload by adding a little bit of resistance over time, which can trigger new muscle growth and help build a stronger dog.
Sulky driving, in particular, allows you to give your dog the exercise he needs with significantly less physical exertion on your part. That said, you can still have fun and exercise with your best friend even if you have creaky joints!
Sharpens Bright Minds
While dogs enjoy dog carting, it requires focus, concentration, and problem-solving. Dogs need to navigate through courses and respond to various commands from their humans.
As dogs learn to adapt to different terrains and situations, they become more mentally sharp and agile. This mental stimulation can help reduce stress and anxiety in dogs while also improving their overall cognitive abilities.
Provides Dogs Purpose and Fosters Trust
Dog carting is a fantastic exercise that promotes trust and camaraderie between humans and canines. It requires you to work closely with your dog, teaching him various commands and encouraging him along the way. This helps to build a deeper connection between the two of you.
Conclusion
Recreational dog carting is a fun and enriching way to exercise and bond with our canine companions. Dogs naturally enjoy pulling — so much that you need to teach most dogs how to stop pulling on the leash. You just need to teach your dog how to effectively pull a cart in various situations, especially if you’re planning to hop in.
Moreover, dog carting can provide a great sense of purpose and fulfillment, especially for breeds that have a history of being draft dogs. With proper equipment and training, your dog may even excel in the competitive sport of dog carting.
However, we should never push our dogs beyond their limits or give them tasks they are not equipped to handle. While dogs naturally enjoy the act of pulling, it’s important to recognize that weight pulling competitions are a serious endeavor unsuitable for the average pet owner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is weight pulling cruel?
While weight pulling isn’t illegal, animal advocates like PETA, find it as inhumane as dog fighting. Animal advocates are concerned that owners might be pushing their dogs to their limits, never considering the consequences that could do to them. Critics have claimed that the generous prize money has been an incentive for a growing number of people to enter these competitions.
Does recreational dog carting require skills?
You can’t just get a cart and hook up Doggo up to it, expecting him to start hauling ASAP. Any dog should have basic obedience skills.
What type of cart can you use in dog carting tests?
Two-wheeled carts are typically used for draft testing because they are lighter and easier to maneuver on difficult surfaces like grass, gravel, or dirt. You can purchase carts from a professional cart maker or make them yourself.
