Training

Question
Hi, I have a 5 month old Siberian husky whom I walk about 1-1/2 hrs a day but feel that he may need something more challenging. I've read that in place of a sled you can use a scooter to give huskies the opportunity to do what they do best, pull!  At what age can I let him to this activity?  Sometimes I attach him to my bike via walky dog and it seems that he really likes the run but I'm not sure how long he can run his age.  Any advise will be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Generally, I recommend against full pulling exercises until the dog is around 12-18 months.  However, gentle pulling work is fine around 6 months+, and running is fine really at any age.  The key is that you want to stop your activity before the dog is tired.  This is not the age to be pushing them too far.  You can run the dog for miles, as long as when the dog stops, it still wants to go.  But not pushing the dog too far, it keeps it safe and enjoyable for the pup, and also encourages him.

Generally, I recommend turning walks into short runs, and then each time, going just a bit further.  Each time, as long as the dog can keep running when you stop, you can go a little further next time.  If that ends up being a five minute run, or a twenty mile jog, it's you who makes the dog stop BEFORE the dog stops.  Now keep in mind, most Sibes go nuts at first when given the chance to run and pull.  After a few minutes, most of them calm down and settle in to their job running/pulling.  This is not them slowing down because they are tired, just them settling in.  So, this action is fine, just make sure the dog doesn't wear out.

Hope that helps some, and if you have any questions, let me know!