How to start 'Mushing'

Ever watch TV and see the dog sled race and think "I wish I could do that with my dogs"? With practise and patience, you can.  While the only way you'll be able to run the Iditarod is if you drastically change your lifestyle (i.e. say bye-bye to that new hot tub and hi-def TV and say hi to dog kibble and care), that doesn't mean you can't enjoy a new hobby.

Assuming you've already got a Siberian (or two), then you don't need to get a dog.  If you haven't got a Siberian, now would be a good time to start thinking about it.

You will need to buy all of the relevant equipment for both you and your dogs. See Equipment for more information.

Let the dog get used to the harness. Some dogs couldn't care less whether it's on and that just makes it easier. When comfortable enough, attach a lead or gangline to the harness and a light "drag" like a water bottle.

Take your dogs (one at a time will probably be best) outside with a harness and a leash attached to their collar, too. They might be annoyed by the drag at first but will get used to it soon enough.

Teach them the required commands.  Remember that when you are being pulled long by your dog(s), you are at their mercy.  If you don't tell them which way to go, they will decide for you.  See Mushing Terms.

Make the drag heavier and heavier until they are happily pulling a light tire or the equivalent. Also, mix up the drags, letting them get used noisy, quiet, smelly, anything that is different and will expose them to different variables.

If your dog(s) can do all the commands reliably regardless of the drag, you are ready to move on.