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Gang line (tandem hitch)
The line that runs from the sled to the dogs is called a gang line. The gang
line consists of three components. The first is the tow line, which connects to
the sled and runs up between the dogs which are hitched side by side on either
side of the towline. To this, the tug lines are attached. The tug lines attach
to the harnesses on the dogs. The third component is the neck line. Apart from
the two lead dogs who are directly joined by a short neck line, the neck lines
of the other dogs are also connected to the tow line. The end of the neck line
attaches to the dog's collar. The function of the neck line is to keep the dogs
close to the tow line, thereby maximizing their pull strength.
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Lead dog(s) Dog(s) who direct
the team from the position in front of the others.
Swing dogs (Point dogs)
Dogs directly behind the leaders which help leaders turn.
Team dogs Dogs in the
middle of the team between point dogs and wheelers.
Wheel dogs (wheelers) Dogs
which are directly in front of the rig (sled), the last dogs in a team. |
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The
neck line connects the collar of each dog to the main line, or connects
the two lead dogs collar to collar. |
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The most useful and efficient collars are the adjustable semi-choke. Don't use full choke or chain collars! |
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In order to have your dog pull the rig or sled, it must have a proper
harness. The most used one is the x-back harness. The harness should be padded around the front and fit the dog very
well. |
Bungee: a strong elastic cord incorporated into the tow
line (gangline) to absorb the worst shocks and jerks. The tow line (red)
is connects the rig (sled) to which all dogs are attached. The tugline
connects the harness of each dog to the tow line. |
For How You Make Your Own Gang Lines see:
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