If the dogs get tired and begin to slow, it is best to stop them on command and let them rest for a moment and then proceed at a reasonable pace. Balancing speed and distance can be difficult, particularly at the beginning of the training season when the dogs aren t in condition. One tactic which seems to work for many teams seeking to improve speed is to divide the training course into four equal lengths. At first, you may plot out only a mile long course. When the team can complete the last quarter of the course in the same time as the first quarter of the course, increase the distance by a half mile or so.
Most beginners don t have a natural lead dog.
This often results in confusion and inconsistent performance on the team. Don t get discouraged if the dogs at lead don t automatically know what to do and aren t sure if they want to stay out in front. Most mushers run two dogs side by side in double lead with a neckline connecting them, so the dogs offer one another confidence. It s a good idea to train all dogs to follow commands and to do some basic aptitude testing with each dog. Sometimes the dog you think is your likely leader turns out to be better suited to a different position.