The founder of United K9 has seen over the years how people react with their dogs and how their Husbandry is with their K9 friends. He wanted a way to Motivate Pack Leader to be a Leader so they can keep the K9 friend Happy and Healthy.

Pack Leader 90 Challenge was born. Starting in January 2024 the Challenge was Started. Come Join the Free Challenge and push yourself to become the leader.

This Pack Leader 90 Challenge will push you and change your mindset to live a happier and healthier life with your dog. Over the next 90 days you will push yourself and your dog to become well Trained Team. Your pack needs to be on the same page and work as one. This is the first step towards that goal.

Here is the Check List for the Challenge

Dog Team Tasks:

• Follow a Feed Routine for Your dog. Make sure your dog gets the right amount of food and water each day. (NO FREE FEEDING)
• Complete a Training Plan for 30-45 min each day. If you need help with a Training plan Find a Local Trainer in your area that can help you get going.
• Walk or Jog with your dog each day for 30 Min. (If you have puppy please walk until they are over a year old.)
• Groom your dog weekly (grooming helps you bond with your dog and also helps with keep the hair down in the house)
• THE RUCK MINDSET CHALLENGE (Ruck with a Backpack or Rucksack)

1. Ruck Every Day Until You Complete the Distance Needed for Each Day
2. Every 15 Days you will add a 1/2 mile to your Ruck (start at a 1/2 mile)
3. Every 10 Days you will add 5 lbs. to your bag. Start weight 5lbs. (weight will not include water for you and your dog)

How to Start Rucking for the Pack Leader 90 Challenge: Tips & Safety

Rucking is a central part of the Pack Leader 90 Challenge, helping you build endurance, discipline, and strengthen your bond with your dog. Here’s how to get started safely and effectively:

1. Start Light and Progress Gradually:

• Begin with a 5 lb backpack and ruck for 1/2 mile daily.
• Every 15 days, increase your distance by 1/2 mile.
• Every 10 days, add 5 lbs to your pack, starting at 5 lbs (not counting water for you and your dog).

2. Keep the Bag High:

• Backpack Position: Keep the backpack high on your back by tightening the shoulder straps and using the waist strap. This helps distribute the weight evenly across your upper back and shoulders, preventing strain on your lower back.
• Weight Distribution: Pack the heaviest items close to your back to maintain balance and avoid injury.

3. Hydration and Breaks:

• Carry water for both you and your dog. Rucking can be tough on both, so take breaks when needed.
• Monitor your dog’s hydration, especially in warmer conditions. Ensure they get enough water at regular intervals.

4. Maintain Proper Posture:

• Keep your back straight, core engaged, and shoulders relaxed while rucking.
• Avoid slouching or letting the weight pull you backward.

5. Monitor Your Dog’s Comfort:

• Make sure your dog is comfortable with the ruck distance and conditions. Puppies should avoid excessive physical strain, so adjust your pace and distance based on their ability.
• If your dog shows signs of fatigue, take a break or shorten the session. Always carry water and ensure your dog gets enough rest.

6. Safety & Terrain:

• Choose safe, even terrain to avoid injuries to yourself or your dog. Watch for hot pavement or rugged paths that may be hard on your dog’s paws.
• Use reflective gear if rucking early in the morning or late in the evening for better visibility.

7. Warm-Up & Cool Down:

• Stretch your muscles before and after rucking to avoid injury. This is especially important as you add more weight to your ruck over time.

By following these steps and keeping safety in mind, you'll build endurance, strength, and a deeper connection with your loyal canine. Stay consistent, increase your ruck's intensity gradually, and both you and your dog will be well-prepared to complete the Pack Leader 90 Challenge!

Handler Tasks:

• Follow a Healthy Diet
• Workout for 30-45 min. each day (your walks and Rucks does not count towards your work out)
• Take a Weekly Photo with your dog. ( if you post on social media please tag us so we can see your progress! @unitedk9_hq and #Packleader90Challenge

What is a Ruck/ Ruck March:

The definition can be as simple as walking around with a backpack on a hike or as difficult as moving fast with all your military gear, loaded for bear, over rugged terrain, infiltrating to your objective.

When doing this Challenge remember it's about the Following:

• Building a Happy, & Healthy dog
• Building a Better Pack Leader
• Having Integrity
• Loyalty to Your Dog and Yourself
• To Have Fun!

NOTE: IF YOU MISS A DAY YOU WILL NEED TO RESTART.

The Rules!

1. Must stay safe while doing the challenge.
2. You will do the Challenge In Rain, and Snow.
3. Stay Hydrated
4. Use Integrity
5. If you miss a day you will need to RESTART

If the weather is too hot please do your tasks in the early mornings or late evenings. Dog can cook at 90 degrees. If there is a Storm wait for the storm to pass but try and get your tasks done.