How to Train an Alaskan Malamute to Pull a Sled

Training an Alaskan Malamute to do anything can be very challenging. It's not that they aren't smart, it's more that they are far too smart for their own good. They can learn to do anything you teach them to, but only if they want to do it. Malamutes have an extremely stubborn nature and tend to do things only when they feel like it. For this reason alone, you need to start training your pup from the moment you bring him into your home. The best way to successfully train your pup is through positive reinforcement, praise, and, of course, plenty of affection. Malamutes are a working dog and need plenty of exercise and stimulation to keep them focused and happy. 

The job at hand it is to take all of your pup's energy and put it to work doing what actually comes naturally to the breed, which is to put those strong front legs to work pulling a sled. Before you get started on this type of training, you need to give your pup plenty of time to get used to the pulling harness. The good news is that you can start getting your pup used to wearing a harness from a very young age. This way by the time he is old enough and strong enough to start training him to pull, he is used to it and will be ready to move on. Teaching him to pull a sled will give him an activity that he will thoroughly enjoy and is good for both of you. 

The first step is to find a store that sells pulling harnesses. It is important for you to choose one that fits your pup (you will need to replace it as your pup grows out of his current one). In order to get the right fit, you need to take a series of measurements: chest, neck, girth, and length. This is vital as a poorly fitting harness can injure your dog. Your best bet is to find an experienced harness fitter to work with. You will also need:

• A tow rope – To connect your pup to the sled he is pulling.
  
• A waist belt – To connect to you if you are going to be the sled at the beginning.
  
• Something to pull – Whether it's you with a waist belt, a sled in the winter or a cart in the summer, your pup needs something to pull on.
  

You also need to know the commands work on the basics first, then step up to the more complex commands.

• Lineout: Puts your pup in the ready position, which is standing up with some tension on the line
  
• Hike: Start moving forward
  
• On By: Instructs your pup to ignore an object or person and move on by
  
• Gee: Turn right
  
• Haw: Turn left
  
• Easy: Slow down
  
• Whoa: Stop!
  

You don't have to learn all of the commands nor teach them all to your dog at once; start off with the basics and work on the rest later. You should be aware that a complete pulling harness can be a bit on the spendy side. You may want to see if you can borrow one until you are sure your pup is going to learn to wear one and pull.