Carting info

[berryann]

I am interested in draft work with Annie. All I really want to do is teach her to pull a wagon and give little kids rides. I have a harness and she is comfortable wearing it, and I have started having her drag a piece of firewood behind her. She seems completely at ease with the whole idea.
I want a 4 wheel wagon, as the kiddies I have in mind are _not_ the best at sitting still, and I think the stability is important. I have heard mixed opinions of converting children's wagons or garden carts. The only place I've seen ready-made 4 wheel wagons is Dogworks. Are there other sources? Do any of you have good tips for me re training or equipment? (I _know_ you do! )
Thanks!

 

[Annie Milliron]

One thing you may want to consider, if you haven't already, is to find the regional Newf Club closest to you. Once you have found the club, start attending their events. Think about joining. Many times, regional clubs will have workshops for their members interested in water and draft work. Or, you may find someone who would be willing to work with you.

Here is a link to the NCA webpage of Regional Club listings.

http://www.newfdogclub.org/a_fcp/regional_clubs_list.htm

Good luck!

 

[Jeannie]

There was a site on the internet that showed how to convert a wagon to a shafts for dogs to pull. Gary converted our Berlin Flyer Wagon.

One thing to note. It is harder for a newf to pull a 4 wheel devise than a 2 wheel. Also, you newf need to be at least 3 before you begin to let her pull weight. Draggin a piece of firewood is ok, but no weight such as a child in a wagon.

I'll see if I can find the website, if not I will get some photos of how Gary converted our, maybe your husband can copy if from the photos

 

[Newfs Forever]

Jeannie,

Are you saying it's harder for a newf to pull a 4 wheel vs. 2 wheel apparatus because of the wider turns with a 4 wheel?

Or is there another reason for your statement?

I have been debating about getting 2 or 4 wheel apparatus. So I would certainly like your input.

TIA,

Sue

 

[janices]

Depends on what using them for. If not going to do draft tests then a 4-wheel is fine. Really comes into play if you're thinking about competing in draft tests. I have only 2-wheel carts. The 2-wheels give you the advantage in draft test. They are easier to backup straight and easier for making really tight turns in a manuevering course.

 

[berryann]

Thanks everyone. I am definitely watching for local seminars from the regional newf club, as well as berner and other breeds that do draft work.
I am not planning any heavy or competetive pulling - strolls around the parking lot are more what I have in mind. (Annie the lazy newf says, "You got THAT right!" ) Meanwhile we're pulling a little firelog to get used to the ruckus behind us and taking a lot of conditioning walks.

 

[Jeannie]

I remember reading somewhere that it has something to do with the weight/pull ratio. With 4 wheels it harder to get the cart/wagon moving as compared to 2 wheels. I tried it myself, I took a 4 wheel wagon and put weight in it, I put the same weight in a 2 wheel cart. The 2 wheel cart was much easier to start moving. I'll look it up.