There are always new lessons.
We had some challenges back on the trail. Over the summer a small creek washed out part of the trail and several trees blocked the path. I had to tie off the sled and get out my little bow saw to clear the way. By the time I was finished the dogs were super charged to run again and since there were still some obstacles and rough terrain I unhooked 4 dogs to run free, leaving only the leaders and the wheel dogs. On the wheel dogs I undid their tugs so they were only attached by the collar. We made it through safely and I stopped again and tied everyone back in, except for Sandy.
Sandy began to run "loose lead" and consistently keeping about 10-15 meters ahead of the team. She responded to my commands to slow down or wait, and if she got too far ahead she would look back and stop if necessary. She'd also wait after disappearing behind corners, quickly moving again when we appeared. At cross trails she would wait or take several steps down the trail, waiting for my command. She ran past distractions at my command. Really, really excellent stuff. I didn't know I had such a good loose leader. I'm pretty proud of her.
Here we've stopped so I can get a photo. My main leaders back there are also so good, almost always lying down when we stop, conserving energy and letting the team know we ain't going anywhere until they rise, which they will do as soon as I give them a "ready" command from the back of the sled.
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