Q for dog owners-info please

[xeney]

I don't think you should plan on being able to cycle with any dog, whether it's an adult rescue or a puppy. I'm not sure it's something you can count on, because you would need a dog with a very specific rock-solid temperament, and the dog would need to be incredibly well socialized, and the cyclist would also need to be a very steady and predictable rider. And even then I can envision scenarios that just wouldn't be safe for anybody.

People do it and seem to have a wonderful time, and I'm a little envious of those people. But I think there is probably quite a bit of luck involved, as well as very early training and socialization, and I would really not count on this working out with a rescue dog of any breed.

My niece has a Kelpie and he's a great hiking dog. I think dogs are more suited as hiking companions than as cycling companions, in general.

[sarahlou]

I would agree that you need a very good bond with your dog. We started Lou Lou on the bike when she was a puppy. I had a handlebar basket that she rode in. She has cycle-toured with us hundreds of miles riding in a BOB. Also she has spent a lot of time running along side the bike (or skis) in winter so we have a system down. Even then, we don't take her on the popular trails, and we have to tailor or rides to suit her. She loves everyone and everything so she is very happy to run up and say, "Hello". A dog with 'issues' might find it hard to be on a public trail and be expected to behave well while the owner is cycling. But it can be done and is very enjoyable.

[KnottedYet]

That pic of LouLou in the backpack is so cute!!!

[sarahlou]

Thanks, she really does love to ride in it.

[crazycanuck]

We've been approved to get the kelpie at the shelter. We'll pick her up on Saturday & do our best to be good doggie owners.

Any ideas on good sites for dog owners?

So many questions..i'll go and read the dog/cat food thread

We need help with doggie names. The dog in question is a light yellow colour. So far we have:
Sushi
tobin(the canucks might get this one)
flash
queen
curie
angua(terry pratchett followers will get this one)
spoke
goldie(nz rugby fans might get this one)
Alberta
Yukon

Thanks
C

[KnottedYet]

Angua!!!!!!!!!

[KayTee]

One suggestion - basic obedience training with a good instructor. Nothing helps bond a new dog to you like learning to train together, and believe me, these classes are so entertaining that they should charge admission to watch 'em! These classes help socialize the dog to people and other dogs, and even if you think you know all there is to know about training a dog, you (and your dog) will learn a few things anyway. The obedience clubs around here give a discounted rate for their classes to people who can document that their dog came from a shelter or rescue system.

[LBTC]

We've been approved to get the kelpie at the shelter. We'll pick her up on Saturday & do our best to be good doggie owners.

Any ideas on good sites for dog owners?

So many questions..i'll go and read the dog/cat food thread

We need help with doggie names. The dog in question is a light yellow colour. So far we have:
Sushi
tobin(the canucks might get this one)
flash
queen
curie
angua(terry pratchett followers will get this one)
spoke
goldie(nz rugby fans might get this one)
Alberta
Yukon

Thanks
C

Or, playing on the gold theme:

Aurum (from which the elemental symbol for gold, au, is derived)

You know what? No matter what you call her, you will lover her and she will love you and your life will be richer!

Oh, and whoever said to see if your puppy would come to you? well....our 'Cuda did not care at all about pleasing us for the first 2 years, now he's a fabulous dog who loves his mommy... You can't always tell when they are puppies...

Hugs and bouncy butterflies,
~T~