Cart Pulling-A favorite for Nadja and her Bernese Mountain Dogs

By Nadja Torling

Bernese Mountain Dogs originated in Bern, Switzerland. They were farm watchdogs that accompanied the cows to pasture and pulled the cart with dairy products to the market. Today, Bernese owners continue to honor their dogs' heritage by doing draft work. This can be just for fun; hauling the grass clippings to the compost pile in the yard, participating in parades or giving rides to the kids in the neighborhood. For those who want to get a little more serious, there’s the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America’s draft test. 
                                                                                                                                                                                                                         
The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America (BMDCA) introduced a draft test in 1991 that has grown immensely in popularity. It’s a series of exercises designed to develop and demonstrate the hauling abilities of the Bernese. Two judges evaluate the entrants. The teams, the dog and handler, are evaluated on their performance of the exercises, teamwork and willingness to work. The handler is encouraged to talk to the dog during most portions of the test.

There are three parts to the test; the basic control, maneuvering, group stay and freight haul. During the basic control the team performs a heeling pattern determined by the judges, including turns, halts and changes of pace. A recall finishes this part of the test. Next the dog is harnessed and hitched to the cart and the team completes a maneuvering course that includes loading the cart, backing up, going through a narrow gate, greeting a “friendly stranger”, making turns and circles around obstacles and passing visual and audio distractions. After this part the team gets a break while the other contestants perform the same exercises. After all teams have finished the maneuvering course, they enter the ring and do a “stay” where the dogs have to remain in one place without changing position for three minutes. Three minutes is a lot longer than you think! Finally, the entrants head out for a half-mile freight haul where the dogs in the novice class pull 20 pounds and the dogs in the open class pull their own weight. Keep in mind these dogs can weigh up to 120 lbs! The dogs that pass each part receive a draft title.

If you are interested in teaching your dog to pull a cart, visit the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America’s website, to learn more.

About the Author, Nadja.  Having been around dogs all her life, Nadja has built her career and personal life around canines.  She is an integral part of the professional team at Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital and has dedicated her life to all furry creatures.  Nadja has also taught dog training classes for many years, competed in conformation and obedience, and has earned the title of AKC Canine Good Citizen with many of her personal dogs.  Needless to say, Nadja has let her life "go to the dogs"! 

                                                     

         Pictures clockwise:  Henry giving a little

Papillion friend a ride.  Henry and Nadja

giving cart rides during Responsible Dog

Owner Day 2006.  Fisher, Nadja's newest  

team member showing off his new ride!