For those who run dogs off a bike

Sprig

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How do you do it?
I have been out with my lurcher a few times and we both really enjoy it. At the moment I have him on a slightly long than normal webbing lead and just have this laid across the top of my handle bars with both of my hands over it. This has been fine in the most part but I do no think it is ideal. He loves chasing small furries, so i am constantly on the look out and so far have managed to put the brakes on and move past under control.Worst case scenario, if I thought he was going to make me come off I could just let go as he is not attached.
I gather you can get things to attach them to the rear wheel. This sounds to me like it would be a better arrangement. Any recommendations? Also I assume I should put him in a harness if we are doing this. Again recommendations appreciated.
Thanks
 
No advice, but your post brought back a hilarious incident. Lab and bike, steep drive with a bay tree at the bottom. The lab shied and the bike bucked, you can guess the rest !
 
Tbh I have mine loose, which I realise might not be an option for you, but I wouldn't want to attach my dog to my bike, ever, ever, because I am a complete calamity!
 
I have my dogs running in front of the bike, the line is attached to the headstock of the bike and held above the front wheel by an antenna. The line has a bungee built in and the dogs wear harnesses.

I tried one of the side attachments once when we were just starting out (think it was a Walkydog) - never again! Very precarious and not very efficient for the dog. Our intention was always to compete though and they needed to be taught to run up front for that.

http://www.innerwolf.co.uk/browse-by-sport-activity/cycling-bikejoring/bikejor-converter.html
 
Thanks everyone. I don't think I could get him to run in front, he would probably be terrified of me 'chasing' him. The American ones look like the right kind of thing. Is there something similar available from a UK supplier?
 
If you are going to use the side attachment use a shoulder harness and clip a lead to his collar so you have complete control.
If you decide to go down BCs route make sure the dog knows his commands by practicing them during walks, teach them left and right turns and "on by" when you want them to go past a distraction, please use a cross back harness in this situation too
 
Thanks everyone. Cyrus - I don't really know anything about harnesses. Could you please explain the different types you have referred to. I am definitely going to put him to the side, rather than running out front, if that makes a difference.
 
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