Endurance Training Tips

• This test should not be taken lightly as it is intended to put the dog under some degree of physical strain (but NOT physical stress).

• It is important that adequate training is undertaken building up your dogs fitness, and to ensure that your dogs feet are toughened to cope with the extended period of running.
   
• Training sessions should be built up over time to achieve around 8 kilometres. It would not generally be recommended to ever train your dog over the full distance of the test.
   
• Do not train every day. Your dog will need breaks in the training schedule to recover and assist in fitness development. Your dog's feet also need the break to harden. You will notice that your dog's pads will go through phases becoming rough followed by developed pads which are quite smooth.
   
• Dog's pads should be checked before during and after training sessions for any signs of excessive wear or splitting. See your vet if necessary but do not train while there is damage to the pads.

• Water during and immediately after a training session should be monitored carefully. Don't allow your dog to take on excessive amounts of water. They will most likely bring it back up and can cause some problems. After an hour or so after training you dog can resume normal watering habits

• The rider must also gain a reasonable competence on a bike, as it is necessary to adapt your riding to the changing performance of your dog.
   
• The average speed of the test is 10 kilometres per hour although typically the riding speed is around 12-13 kilometres per hour to allow for incidents and toilet stops for your dog.
   
• It would be recommended to have a bike (eg mountain bike or similar) which has at least 5 gears to assist with the changing needs of the ride as it is conducted on grass, gravel and bitumen. 

• It is a good idea to have some training sessions with other riders with dogs to ensure your dog is happy to have dogs behind and in front.

Please make contact with the club if you are interested in training. Click here for contact details