INFORMATION
Racing is Fun to Learn
The most popular JR activity is racing, and most JRs can quickly learn racing fundamentals. However, if you are new to the club, you may find it beneficial to prepare your dog for the experience before his first fun day. After a few coaching sessions with yourself and other members, he will want to race because this is a naturally enjoyable activity for him.
You can start race training in your own back yard. The idea is to get him used to chasing a lure. Start by tying a sock to a 20 foot piece of string. Then, run away from your terrier with the lure trailing behind you. Let your terrier catch to sock so that it will be a satisfying experience.
During a fun day racing event, your dog may balk at being put in the racing box. You may want to start him out in front of the racing box to get him into the habit of running. Don’t quit after the first failure. JRs are smart and catch on quickly.
If your dog gets in a fight, work to stop the behavior immediately. We do not want to reinforce this behavior by ignoring it. We want the dog to totally focus on completing the race.
Cool down your terrier after each race. You can use a mist spray bottle and offer your terrier plenty of water.
It is important that your dog wear a muzzle in the race. He may be normally mild mannered. In the excitement of a race, however, he may become agitated and difficult to handle. A muzzle protects the dog and catchers at the finish line.
Dogs who are new to racing may fight wearing a muzzle. You may want your dog to wear a muzzle for a few minutes daily to get use to the feel of the device. Reward your dog when he seems to tolerate the muzzle. Do not let him wear it for too long a period because he may have difficulty breathing.
Plastic basket or softie muzzles are recommended. Please do not use the typical open or figure 8 muzzle. Suitable muzzles can be purchased at the following companies: