Junior Page - Getting Started
Starting Out
Most people get started in mushing using small teams in the sprint races. You can start training right away for the 1 and 2 dog junior events if you have a pet dog who likes to run and is strong enough to pull you.
You will need to learn how to teach your dog. One of the best teachers for a dog is another dog. A good way to start is to get an experienced sled dog. It is always fun to have a cute puppy, but if you are serious about mushing, it is easier to start with a dog who knows about the sport and can help teach you.
You can find trained sled dogs by going to races and talking with mushers, by joining a sled dog club, and by reading sled dog publications. You will find that mushers love to talk about their dogs. Most mushers remember when they were starting out in the sport and will offer to help.
If you join a club, you can meet many helpful people. Some clubs have Junior Musher divisions. In some areas, groups like the 4H have Junior Musher clubs.