Chase the Rabbit/Break the Habit

Say No To Rabbits. Break that Habit.

Chasing the rabbit, is when you use another team out front of you, to get your dogs going.

Skijoring is based on using a dogs instincts.  Dogs love to run, and will usually pick a trail, over crashing through the bush or deep snow when hooked up to you.   The idea is to tap into the instinct of running down a trail, and transfer it to running down a trail, with a skier attached.  

Sometimes people have trouble getting their dog to go.  So they opt for the easier option of having their dog chase another team.  This is an instant way to get going, but all it does is train the dog to follow another team.  When the other team is no longer there... your dog won't go.  Or your dog may refuse to pass.

To get around this, takes work.  It's best to have never started chasing a rabbit in the first place.  Build on your dogs natural desire and drive to run.  Some dogs of course, are easier than others to get running in front of you.

Confidence

A confident dog is more likely to take the lead and pull you down the trail.  So ensure that you spend lots of time training your dog one on one.  The more your dog can do, the more confident you both are in his abilities.

Some Leg Work

Get your dog out in harness, and praise him when he starts to walk in front of you.  You might need to start to jog a bit, then when your dog picks up speed, slow down, and offer praise when the dog is now out in front of you.

Get out and practice plenty with your dog, on foot.  When you know he can keep the line tight, then it's time to add the skis.  

Talk Less

Pretty much, shut up.  Don't be yapping away and distracting your dog.  Offer praise for pulling, then be quiet and help your dog out.

 

Say not to Rabbits. It can be hard work to get your dog to go our in front, and not chase another team.   But stick with it, and pretty soon you to will be saying:

 NO TO RABBITS