When most people think of animals pulling a cart, they think of a beautiful, strong team of Clydesdales pulling the famed Budweiser wagon, or a utilitarian farm animal like a mule pulling a load of vegetables to the market. However, dogs have long been used to pull carts, whether for commerce, travel, or recreation. There are many dogs that have been engineered to pull carts, while others find enjoyment in the activity. The Black Russian Terrier falls into the latter category, although there are some dogs in the breed's lineage that are commonly known for the chore, like the Newfoundland.
Although medium-sized dogs are more adept at carting, large dogs can and do participate in the sport. The black Russian Terrier has many characteristics needed to do carting, including intelligence, a hard-working attitude and a desire to please its owner. Some people may think dog carting is cruel, forcing a dog to wear the contraption or pull weight. Unlike beasts of burden, which respond to physical prodding with whips or smacks, a dog will cower in fear if threatened or struck, or refuse to participate in the activity. Therefore, you'll know if your dog won't want to play along.
This is a great exercise for "work horse" dogs, and the Black Russian Terrier definitely fits into this category. Also, once the dog is trained in the activity, it can prove to be a fun activity for both owner and dog, which will keep both coming back for more. Aside from being a strong breed, the Black Russell Terrier is also a quite agile breed, which is well adapted to participating in agility competitions. Carting can provide and excellent cross-training activity during the week for those weekend warriors who participate in agility competitions. Dogs are natural pack animals, so if you own more than one Black Russian Terrier, this is an activity where more the merrier applies. Dogs enjoy and thrive in working as a team, and carting is no different. However, dogs need one-on-one training before joining a team of dogs in carting.
Keep in mind that this is a sport not only for the dog, but for the owners as well. This is especially important to remember with the Black Russian Terrier. A dog of incredible strength, a Black Russian Terrier in training can easily hurt himself or his owner if great care isn't take in controlling the situation. Also, dogs attached to a cart are prone to non-leashed dogs that approach them. Owners need to be able to stop the cart, steer it clear, or jump out of the cart to help protect their team. Owners should keep themselves in good physical condition, as well as their dogs, if they intend to participate in carting.
Carting with your Black Russian Terrier can be a rewarding experience for both owner and dog. There are plenty of sites devoted to the activity on the Internet, and how people can participate.
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