Andre Boysen-Hillestad I Line-out training

 

Blanka 

"Welcome back to another episode of *Unleashed Podcast*! Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with a multiple-time world champion in sled dog sports, Andre Boysen-Hillestad, who also happens to be the son of the legendary Lena Boysen-Hillestad, the most decorated athlete in the field. Andre, welcome!"

 

Andre 

"Thanks for having me."

 

Blanka 

"Today, we’ll be delving into a fascinating aspect of sled dog training—line-out training. When your mother was racing, I think your team wasn’t known for standing still at the starting line. But recently, it seems like your dogs can start a race without a handler and remain impressively calm. For those unfamiliar, could you explain what line-out training is?"

 

Andre 

"Sure! Line-out is when you’re standing at the starting line with your dogs completely still, ready to run without any barking or jumping. They’re lined out, bungee tight, and focused—prepared to take off all at once. It’s a huge advantage because if they’re not, you risk losing a few seconds right at the start, which can make all the difference at the top levels."

 

Blanka 

"That makes sense. Do you have a preference for whether the dogs should stand, sit, or lie down during line-out?"

 

Andre 

"Just standing still is my preference. When they stand, they’re ready and focused."

 

Blanka 

"How do you introduce line-out training, especially with young puppies?"

 

Andre 

"Usually, puppies learn from observing the older dogs. The first generation might be a bit more excitable, but each generation seems to calm down more. They see how the older dogs behave and pick it up. Sometimes, I have an older dog that’s returned to me or one I’ve bought that didn’t know line-out, but they quickly catch on by watching the others."

 

Blanka 

"So if you bring in a more excitable dog, does it influence the others?"

 

Andre 

"Occasionally, it might cause a bit of excitement, but the calm vibe of the team usually wins out. If one of them starts barking, I try to remain calm and give a simple command to quiet down."

 

Blanka 

"Consistency seems key! Speaking of advantages, besides the calmness and focus it brings, are there other benefits to teaching line-out?"

 

Andre 

"Definitely! They’re less stressed before the start, so they save energy for the race itself. The calmer they are, the more they conserve their energy."

 

Blanka 

"Are there any disadvantages? Some trainers argue that a dog should be eager to run."

 

Andre 

"I don’t see it as a disadvantage. If they’re calm, they can actually hear me count down, which prepares them better for the command to go. When I say, 'Okay!' it’s like magic for them—they’re instantly ready."

 

Blanka 

"Training younger, more excitable dogs must present some challenges. Have you ever had a dog that just couldn’t handle line-out?"

 

Andre 

"I’ve been lucky. If a dog struggles, I might position them in front, guiding them to sit or stay until they grasp the concept. Sometimes, I’ll reward calm behavior with treats."

 

Blanka 

"Do you train them to stay calm outside of the race environment, too?"

 

Andre 

"I try, yes. In their daily routine, they’re encouraged to be calm, though they’re naturally more eager when they’re off-leash. Connected to a bike or sled, they’re totally different—focused and ready."

 

Blanka 

"With six or seven dogs in training, do you find they are calm moving from the car to the start line?"

 

Andre 

"It depends. Sometimes they’ll walk calmly; other times, they might pull a bit, but they rarely make noise. With a sled, I use a spike brake to move calmly to the start, making it easier to maintain control."

 

Blanka 

"I can see why you value calmness. Watching your team just stand quietly amidst the chaos must feel incredible."

 

Andre 

"It does! Seeing them stay focused when others are barking gives me butterflies every time. I’m so proud."

 

Blanka 

"Do you practice line-out only in training, or do you find ways to instill calm behavior throughout their day-to-day?"

 

Andre 

"I started incorporating calmness in all settings, like waiting at the door or not rushing out together. It’s safer that way, especially with multiple dogs."

 

Blanka 

"It sounds like you have a very balanced approach. What’s one final tip you’d share with listeners hoping to achieve the same?"

 

Andre 

"Never give up, and always make sure you’re the one in control. Don’t let the dogs “win” by rushing. In the end, it really pays off."

 

Blanka 

"Andre, thank you for sharing your training tips and techniques. Your connection with your dogs is truly inspiring. Good luck this season!"

 

Andre 

"Thank you so much, and thanks for having me!"