One more thought about backing up. The position of the shafts relative to the dog are also important. The most common offender of this is using the large competition cart with wooden shafts from Dog Works on a smaller novice dog. The problem lies in the fact that there is no adjustablility in the space between the shafts. I normally recommend approx. 2" (two fingers width)between dog harness and shaft to each side. If you have a cart with metal shafts, in most cases they can be adjusted by rotating them inwards. The first clue that your setup is too wide is that the dog can swing his/her butt into a C-shape within the confines of the shaft area. You really need to think about the concept of clown shoes. The dog needs to feel confident and in control of the cart and its load. Minor tuneups can provide major steps forward in confidence of the dog. I've seen it first hand. Again, in an experienced dog these minor things would be ignored or compensated for by the dog. Thus to a novice, that wouldn't be the first thing you would consider.
Jim LaFrom San Jose, Ca now get out there and work dem workn'dogs
