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Avalanche Rescue Dogs
from:One good search and rescue dog can be better than twenty human
search and rescue workers. Following its nose, an avalanche
search and rescue dog covers a large area usually in a zigzag
pattern. An avalanche dog can smell the human scent through
snow. Once they have picked up the scent, an avalanche dog can
zero in on where the smell is most intense. In many cases, the
availability of good search and rescue dogs has been the
difference between life and death for skiers, snowboarders, and
other winter outdoor enthusiasts.
When considering what breed will make the best avalanche search and rescue dog, there are
some key aspects to consider. A keen sense of smell is a must.
The dog needs to have a thick coat to withstand the harsh winter
temperatures associated with avalanche country. It also goes
without saying that dogs of a certain body type will be better
suited to long hikes in deep snow. Long legs, large paws, a
muscular build, stamina, and an instinct to track things down
are some necessary attributes that come together to create a
good avalanche dog.
Avalanche dogs have to be trainable and
responsive to the direction and feedback that they receive.
Finally, a rescue dog needs the inner drive to get the job done.
Some breeds that fit the bill include Saint Bernard, Great
Pyrenees, German Shepherd, Giant Schnauzer, Belgian Malinois,
and Retrievers. This is not an all inclusive list, but instead
just a few examples of breeds that have performed well as
avalanche rescue dogs.
The training of an avalanche dog takes a
specific breed of person as well. Training an avalanche rescue
dog is both time and labor intensive. It can take two to three
avalanche seasons or more. There is a lot of digging involved, a
lot of hide-n-seek, and a lot of treats too. The basic idea is
to start out simple and increase the level of difficulty
gradually. Make sure, especially in the early stages, that the
dog wins and makes a successful rescue. For example, a trainer
might begin by walking a short distance away from the dog and
hiding behind a tree while an assistant keeps the pup from
immediately following. When the trainer is out of sight the dog
is released and its curiosity takes over and the first rescue is
made (usually in a matter of seconds).
As the dogs skills
develop, the hiding area and places get larger and deeper, the
digging begins. The training is progressive and the learning
curve can differ from one breed to another or even from one dog
to another. Patience, consistency, lots of digging, and plenty
of treats and praises will eventually result in a dog capable of
saving lives. If you are interested in finding avalanche search
and rescue dogs for
sale, there are several breeds to choose from. Your specific
needs and geographic area might lead you to a more specific
breed. If you are willing and able to put in the time and effort
necessary, the rewards can be immeasurable.
About the Author: Dean Burton is the owner of MyDreamPuppy.com,
a leading provider of dogs
for sale. For more information, please visit
www.MyDreamPuppy.com.
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