Q: How do I get started in weight pulling?
A: Firstly you need a freight style harness, under no circumstances should you use collars or ornamental harnesses to pull a dog.
Q: At what age can I start to weight pull with my dog?
A: This is probably one of the most talked about question's within the sport, the reason being its kinda open ended, it all falls to personal preference. Some trainers believe in starting the dogs out from as young as 8 weeks, some choose to wait for the dog to structually mature more and begin training between 6-9 months, others wait until after the dog turns one year of age. The opinion of the Players club members is that dogs can be started from young ages but, and we stress this, everything should be done in moderation to the pups capabilities, and at no time should undue stress or overloading of carts be done, after all this sport is not a sprint its more of a marathon.
Q: Do I have to sign up to an organisation or club in order to WP my dog?
A: No, All of the internationally recognised orgs/Feds operate as non-profitable and no sign up fees are required. The Players Club do not charge a members fee, although some clubs do.
Q: At what age can I compete with my dog?
A: Dogs can start competing from one year of age, although prior to this you can participate at a UPF sanctioned event from the age of 9 months as a novice dog.
Q: Why is there a novice section?
A: Being a novice does not automatically mean your dog has to be aged between 9-12 months old. A dog of any age could take part as a novice..... A dog which has had some training but is new to actually taking part at competitions would benefit from going in as a novice dog.
Q: What type of surfaces are competitions held on?
A: Sanctioned UPF events can be done on Carpet, Grass, Dirt or gravel, unacceptable surfaces include tarmac or ashphalt.
Q: What breed of dogs weight pull?
A: All breeds
Q: Have there been any injuries from pulling dogs?
A: Quite simply answered....NO, although there have been reports from fellow competitors over in America that a couple of people have injured themselves jumping over the line as a requirement of the rules!!!!
( FAQ will be updated as questions are asked!! )