Does your doggo have some pent-up energy this winter? Are you decent on skis (and willing to layer ruthlessly)? Skijoring might be the perfect sport for both of you. Sniff out the deets on pup’s new favorite winter activity.
What the Heck Is Skijoring?
Skijoring is cross-country skate skiing with your dog helping to pull you along. It comes from the Norwegian word skikjøring, meaning ski driving. Contrary to classic skiing, where you ski in a set of parallel tracks, skate skiers point their toes outward, similar to ice skating, and ski on a wide, groomed trail of packed snow. If your pup weighs at least 30 pounds and ruvs to pull (or regularly walks you instead of the other way around) you’ve got a great skijoring candidate.
What Gear Do I Need for Skijoring?
Skijoring requires minimal equipment: a pair of skate skis and poles, a harness for your dog, a belt or harness for you, and a shock-corded tug line to connect you and Fido together. Skis and poles can be rented in the chalet at most parks, but you’ll have to bring your own harnesses and tug line. And don’t forget poop bags to keep that trail clean.
If you know how to ski and doggo weighs 30+ pounds and listens to basic commands, then you’re ready to start practicing.
Have any questions about skijoring? Let us know in the comments below, and if you hit the slopes, pittie please tag @SidewalkDog in those pics!
Featured photo: @laurie_and_jack
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