Using the Springer Bike Attchment for Dogs
Like 0 Dislike 0 Published on 26 Apr 2011
I'v'e been using the Springer bike attachment for 5 years. It can be a safer way to exercise your dog than holding onto the leash while bike riding, ONLY if you train your dog from the ground up.
Most important: Your dog must know the "leave it" command for live and tempting distractions.
Then you can teach directional commands while walking on a leash. I use "over" for right. "This way" for left. "Easy" for slow down. Mushers use Gee, Haw, and Hup, but you can use whatever comes naturally as long as you're consistent.
Start slow using the side clip of a Walk Easy Harness for the most control. The harness Springer provides doesn't control the dog well enough.
I progressed to a Y-back harness so my dog has freedom to full out run, but I wouldn't recommend this if your dog remains unruly on the trail because it is designed for pulling. If your dog doesn't respect the bike and the "leave it" command for critters, a pull toward or away from the bike will result in injury.
I'll eventually do a full tutorial because so many people ask me about where to get the Springer and how to use it. But I want them to use it safely.
It is not for every dog and you must know your dog's limits for exercise, heat tolerance, and water needs. It is also your responsibility to keep the burden off your dog and follow their lead for pacing. Understand this is physical for you too, especially up hills. A lone dog should not be pulling you constantly.
Also note in the first photo, we use a bike trailer for the bird to come along. It's an extra burden but... let's call it animal enrichment:)