We’re all happy to see spring weather, but sometimes it can make betting on dog breeds more difficult. With the rain, the mud, and the time change, it’s no wonder the dogs and punters get a little lost. Then there is the added confusion of dogs going into heat or having puppies. How can you make money despite all this?

First of all, relax. Most of the rules for the smart handicap still apply in the spring, just like they do throughout the year. With a few modifications, you should be able to do just fine during the spring months. Just make sure you know when to adjust your betting strategy.

For example, spring rains can make tracks muddy or wet. Note that they are two different things. When a track is muddy it becomes difficult for the dogs, literally. They have to fight their way through the mud and that slows them down. This is when you want to look for dogs that break out fast, because they have a HUGE advantage over dogs that break in more slowly and then pick up speed.

On a wet track, however, what seems to matter quite a bit is the weight of the dog. I don’t know how many times I’ve seen pools with the two heaviest dogs and even trifectas with the three heaviest. Not every race, and the effect seems to wear off as the races go on the schedule, so play this for the first four races on the schedule when the track is wet.

Aside from keeping an eye out for dogs thinking of mating instead of running, the condition of the track is the most important factor to consider in the spring. Heed this tip and you’ll be way ahead of most other bettors this spring.