Dog Skijoring for Beginners: Gear, Training & More

Adventure is out there, and our dogs make it so much better. Ever thought about exploring the snowy trails with your furry friend through dog skijoring? It's an amazing way to combine your love for skiing with quality time spent with your pup. This guide covers everything you need to know about skijoring with dogs—from the basics and gear to training tips for a safe and fun experience. Ready to hit the slopes with your skijoring dog? Let's go!

Did you know there’s an activity that combines the thrill of high-speed snow skiing with the joy of walking your canine companion? (No, we promise it’s not too good to be true.) This sport is called skijoring (sometimes also noted as ski driving) and it’s growing in popularity throughout the United States!

Here’s your ultimate guide to skijoring with dogs. What is it? Who might enjoy it? And how do you and your best friend get started?

1) What is skijoring?

At its simplest, skijoring is a winter sport where a skier is pulled by a horse, dog, or even motor vehicle. It merges the velocity of downhill skiing with the more approachable terrain of its cross-country counterpart.

Key Takeaways

• Skijoring offers a unique way to connect with your dog: This winter sport provides both a fun recreational outlet and a competitive opportunity, strengthening your bond while enjoying the outdoors. Prioritize your dog's comfort and adjust the activity level as needed.


• Preparation is key for a safe and enjoyable experience: Equipping your dog with a proper pulling harness and bungee towline is crucial for their well-being. Gradual training with positive reinforcement ensures they learn essential commands and build confidence on the trails.


• Dog-powered sports can be enjoyed regardless of your climate: If snow is scarce, explore alternatives like canicross and bikejoring. These activities offer similar thrills and valuable training experience, preparing you and your dog for skijoring adventures should the opportunity arise.

The history of skijoring

Skijoring has roots in dog sledding traditions, though no one is sure exactly how it all began. Here’s a high-level timeline of some important moments:

• Canada, 1000s: Archaeologists believe dog sledding was invented by natives in what’s now modern Canada. It spread to other winter climates throughout the world from there.


• China, Yuan and Ming dynasties: Some historians believe that a form of skijoring where dogs pulled a person on wooden boards originated in China between 1200 and 1644.


• Scandinavia, 1850s: Natives returned from trips to the western United States, where they had witnessed dog mushing. They made modifications (skis instead of sleds, fewer dogs) and popularized dog skijoring as a way to cover long distances.


• Stockholm, 1901: Skijoring behind reindeer debuted on a track at the Nordic Games, a predecessor to modern day equestrian skijoring.


• Europe and North America, 1910s: By this time skijoring with horses was well known in France and Switzerland – it appeared in New York in 1915 and in New Hampshire the following year.


• United States, 1976: Denver, Colorado listed skijoring as an exhibition in their Winter Olympics host city bid. While it never came to fruition, the sport had become recognized around the world.

What skijoring looks like today

You can find pet-owner teams enjoying modern dog skijoring in any environment that gets enough snow in the winter months.

Recreational skijoring

Many hobbyists have embraced skijoring as a fun activity for a few reasons:

• The barriers to entry are relatively low (athletes in the right climates for skijoring often already own cross-country skiing equipment).


• Dogs are increasingly involved in our modern lives. Skijoring is the perfect way to work them into winter fun!


• The sport can be as intense or low-key as an individual wants. It’s perfectly okay to move slowly in open, remote areas – or to take things up a notch in busier spots.

Recreational skijoring typically uses a classic skiing technique (similar to walking) that might vary from team to team. There are no hard-and-fast rules to casually enjoy the sport!

Dog skijoring competitions

Dog skijoring competitions, on the other hand, are more structured environments where teams race around a track. Here’s what they look like in the United States:

• In American skijoring, skiers use a skating technique as opposed to the easier classic approach, making for higher speeds.


• Dogs for skijoring are more carefully conditioned. Many teams work closely with vets and canine physical therapists to ensure their pullers are in top shape.


• More training is required. While there’s wiggle room for a few errors while skijoring casually in a public park or along a deserted snowy street, a race track requires dogs and owners to work as a careful unit. Clear communication can help prevent collisions and delays.


• Participants are passionate! While competitive environments can sound overwhelming, most teams are there because they love it. Skijoring clubs can provide great camaraderie.

The purpose of skijoring

While skijoring originated as a means of quickly covering long distances between mining sites or hunting traps, it’s now mostly about having fun with our canine companions.

Anyone who has ever loved a dog can tell you how magical it is to spend time with these amazing animals – and cooperative activities allow us to feel even more connected.

Skijoring with Your Dog: Building a Stronger Bond

Beyond the thrill of gliding through snowy landscapes, skijoring offers a unique opportunity to deepen the bond with your furry friend. A strong bond is essential for safe and enjoyable skijoring, creating a rewarding experience for both of you.

This sport provides excellent exercise and mental stimulation for dogs, especially beneficial for high-energy breeds or those prone to boredom or anxiety. Navigating trails together, relying on each other for communication and coordination, strengthens your partnership. Whether you're exploring quiet trails at a leisurely pace or tackling more challenging terrain, skijoring allows you to tailor the experience to your dog's comfort level, further fostering a deeper connection. The sheer joy and exhilaration of skijoring together create lasting memories, adding another layer to your unique relationship. It's a chance to see your dog thrive, building confidence and trust. For more tips on strengthening your bond, check out Sniffspot's blog for articles on dog training, enrichment, and more. You can even find the perfect dog park near you for some pre-skijoring practice!

2) What kind of people and dogs enjoy skijoring?

While dog-owner teams of all shapes and sizes can come to enjoy this adventurous sport, some find it more natural than others.

Skijorers are active and up for a challenge

Skijoring isn’t like running a marathon or entering a powerlifting competition (phew!) but it does require skiers to be in reasonably good shape. While the amount of exertion depends in part on how successfully your dog can pull you, balance and general strength are important regardless of your companion’s size.

On top of the core and leg muscles required for successful skijoring, you’ll also need to have ample time to work with your dog!

Any dog breed can try out skijoring

In general, dogs above 35 pounds have the greatest success pulling their owners on skis – but smaller canines can skijor as long as their humans are willing to provide more additional power.

While dogs in the working and sporting groups tend to enjoy running and pulling more than others (northern breeds and shorthaired pointers are often particularly adept, and even golden retrievers often like the task) each dog is an individual. It’s less about what breed your dog is and more about whether they’d really enjoy the activity. Even your toy poodle can give the sport a go if you’re both excited about it!

Size and Weight Considerations for Skijoring Dogs

Generally, dogs over 35 pounds have the most success pulling their owners while skijoring. However, smaller dogs can still participate as long as their human partners are prepared to put in a little extra effort. Think of it as teamwork—you and your furry friend working together to enjoy the snowy trails. If you have a smaller dog, consider focusing on flatter terrain or shorter distances at first.

Breed Characteristics and Temperament for Skijoring

While certain breeds seem naturally drawn to skijoring, any dog can potentially love this winter sport. Dogs in the working and sporting groups, like Siberian Huskies or Pointers, often take to running and pulling with enthusiasm. Even Golden Retrievers can find joy in the activity. Ultimately, it's less about breed and more about your individual dog's personality and whether they genuinely enjoy the experience. A safe, enclosed dog park can be a great place to test your dog's interest in running and pulling. If they exhibit excitement and a willingness to move forward, they might just be a natural skijorer! If your dog shows signs of anxiety or discomfort, prioritize their well-being and explore other winter activities better suited to their temperament.

Your dog’s bones should be fully developed before they pull you

If you have a puppy, you should wait until their bones and joints are fully grown before encouraging them to do any intense exercise. This can mitigate the risk of hip dysplasia and other injuries down the line!

“Full grown” can vary a bit from breed to breed (your veterinarian will be able to help you make the right decision). In general, it’s safe to give your dog more rigorous exercise around 1.5-2 years of age.

Make sure your dog is in good physical shape

To skijor successfully, your dog needs to be agile enough to run through snow and strong enough to pull some of your weight while they do it. Here’s how to see if they’re up to the task:

• Pay attention to your dog’s gait. Never ask them to pull weight if you see any signs of pain or unevenness.


• Receive regular vet care. We recommend taking your best friend in for a physical exam before starting any skijoring work – let your vet team know your plans and follow their recommendations to make sure you’re ready!


• Encourage muscle growth. Consider increasing your dog’s calorie intake on particularly active days.

Nutritional Needs of Skijoring Dogs

Proper nutrition is essential to prepare your dog for the physical demands of skijoring. Active dogs, especially those participating in high-energy activities like skijoring, need a balanced diet that supports their energy needs. This means their food should be rich in proteins and fats, which are crucial for sustaining energy levels during vigorous exercise.

Remember, each dog is an individual. Factors like their breed, age, and overall health will influence their specific dietary requirements. Regular vet check-ups ensure your dog is in good physical shape and receiving the right dietary support for skijoring. If you're looking for places to let your dog run and play, even if it's not quite skijoring, check out Sniffspot's dog park listings.

A well-balanced diet tailored to an active dog’s needs is vital for skijoring. This includes ensuring adequate protein and fat intake and adjusting calorie consumption based on activity levels. Prioritizing your dog's nutritional needs helps them perform at their best and enjoy skijoring.

3) How can you and your dog start skijoring?

Skijoring might sound a little overwhelming at first – but if you’re willing to put yourself out there, you and your dog can be charging through the snow (or maybe even racing around a track) in no time!

Get some basic skijoring gear

Overview of the gear required to skijor, especially highlighting the importance of a harness meant specifically for pulling

Skijoring equipment for you

• Warm, weather appropriate clothes. It’s best to dress in layers.


• Skijoring belt. This is what will attach you to your dog’s tether.


• Cross-country skis. Most skis work just fine for recreational skijoring (just avoid ones with metal edges).

Choosing the Right Skis for Skijoring

For recreational skijoring, most cross-country skis work perfectly. Avoid skis with metal edges, as these are designed for downhill skiing and can be dangerous on packed trails. Backcountry or touring skis are often wider and heavier, better for deep powder than the flatter terrain ideal for skijoring. Choose something lightweight and maneuverable. If you’re looking for more speed and control, especially on harder snow, consider narrower skis with more camber. These carving skis are a solid choice for intermediate and advanced skiers. The best skis depend on your skiing style, skill level, and the terrain. If you’re unsure, talk to a salesperson at a local ski shop.

Skijoring Equipment for Your Dog

• Pulling harness. Unlike a standard walking harness, a pulling harness distributes weight evenly across your dog’s body, preventing strain and injury. This is crucial for their safety and comfort.


• Leash or towline. This connects your dog’s harness to your skijoring belt. Look for a bungee or shock-absorbing leash to cushion sudden movements and protect both you and your dog.

Start Slow and Build Up Gradually

Introduce your dog to the equipment gradually. Let them sniff and explore the harness and towline before putting them on. Start with short, easy runs on familiar terrain, focusing on clear communication and positive reinforcement. Gradually increase the distance and speed as your dog gets more comfortable. Skijoring should be fun for both of you! If your dog hesitates or seems uncomfortable, take a break and try again later. You can even practice commands and get your dog used to the harness at dog parks.

Take a Skijoring Lesson (Optional)

If you’re new to skijoring or want to improve your technique, consider taking a lesson from a qualified instructor. They can teach you the basics, including how to use the equipment, communicate with your dog, and handle different terrain. A lesson can help you identify any potential problems early on and ensure that you and your dog are skijoring safely and effectively. Many local skijoring clubs offer lessons and guided tours—check online or with your local ski resort.

Skijoring equipment for your dog

• Skijoring harness. It’s important to get a harness specifically designed for pulling! Wearing the wrong equipment can increase your dog’s chance of muscle soreness, injury, and even long-term gait problems.


• Bungee lead to connect to your belt. This should be around 9’ (longer than a standard 6’ leash) to give room around your skis.

Selecting a Proper Harness for Your Dog

A special skijoring harness (not a regular harness or collar) is crucial for your dog's comfort and safety. A standard walking harness isn’t designed for the pulling action of skijoring and could strain your dog’s neck and back. Look for a harness that distributes pressure evenly across your dog's chest and shoulders, allowing them to pull comfortably and efficiently. A well-fitted harness is essential for preventing injuries and ensuring a positive experience. Consider your dog's size and the terrain when selecting a harness. For example, extra padding might be beneficial for longer outings or rougher trails.

The Importance of a Quality Tug Line

The tug line is the vital link between you and your dog, and a quality one is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. Opt for a bungee tug line to help absorb shock and prevent sudden pulls, which could cause either of you to lose balance. A standard 6’ leash is too short for skijoring; a 9’ tug line provides ample room for maneuvering around your skis and gives your dog space to run comfortably. This extra length is key for maintaining a safe distance and preventing tangles.

Find a safe place to practice skijoring

Most flat terrain is a good option for skijoring, provided there’s enough snow cover – but many cross-country skiing spots (both official tracks and nature loops) either don’t allow dogs entirely or restrict them to certain times. Chances are you’ll have the best luck with multi-use, dog-friendly fields or trails for skijoring!

Can’t find any public parks well-suited to your new hobby? You might be able to find a Sniffspot that’s perfect for skijoring practice. Some of our hosts provide private areas that are plenty big enough to give cross country skiing a go.

You can search for Sniffspots near you on our listings page!

Finding Dog-Friendly Trails and Parks on Sniffspot

If you're having trouble finding the perfect place to skijor with your dog, Sniffspot can help! We connect dog owners with private, dog-friendly spaces perfect for various activities, including skijoring. Many hosts on Sniffspot offer large, open areas ideal for practicing with your dog. A Sniffspot also gives you the peace of mind of a safe, controlled environment, away from the crowds and restrictions of public parks. Browse our listings to find a skijoring-ready spot near you.

You can even filter your search by amenities! Want a place with water access for a post-skijoring cool-down? We have dog water parks. Looking for a spot with trails for more exploration? We've got those too! Use our search filters to find the perfect spot for your and your dog's next skijoring adventure.

Understand good skijoring etiquette

A little respect goes a long way. Here’s how you and your dog can practice proper skijoring etiquette:

• Always follow the rules of the space you’re in.


• Pay attention to trail conditions.


• Pick up your pup’s waste.


• Call ahead to announce your presence before passing anyone from behind. If possible, make space to give a wide berth around other trail users.


• Never let your dog approach a person or dog without permission.

It’s particularly important to be polite in shared public spaces. When we give our canine companions a good name, more environments stay dog friendly! That way skijoring can remain a fun, popular activity.

Make sure your dog is comfortable with your skijoring equipment

New things can be a little uncomfortable – especially to our dogs. We can’t explain to them what skijoring is all about verbally, so it’s only fair we take things slow to make sure they’re ready to hit the snow with us!

Slowly acclimate your dog to his or her skijoring harness

If your dog is already comfortable wearing a harness, they might adjust to a skijoring setup more quickly – but it’s still important not to push them too far. Here’s what to do:

• Never force the harness on your dog. Instead, associate its presence with good things (like a favorite treat or toy).


• Once your dog is comfortable around the harness, you can lure their head through the opening. Reward them often and keep sessions short!


• Slowly work your way up to putting the harness on and adjusting the straps. Eventually attach their bungee cord lead to get them used to the tension from it, too.


• When the harness is on, make things fun! Playing games like tug and fetch can be a great way to help them feel comfortable moving in their new gear.


• If your dog seems unsure at any point, take a few steps back. Consider reaching out to a professional force free trainer for guidance!

Expose your dog to your other skijoring equipment, too

Many dogs have never been around skis or poles. Here are some tips to see how they feel:

• Set your gear on the floor and let your dog investigate at his or her own pace. Don’t move on to the next step until they seem completely unbothered by the equipment’s presence!


• See if your dog is comfortable walking next to you while you carry your poles.


• Try the same walking exercise holding your skis.


• If possible, have your dog off leash (a Sniffspot would be a great place for this!) or on a long line the first time you wear your skis around them. This way they can easily make space if they feel uncomfortable.


• When in doubt, take things slow!

Start teaching your dog skijoring skills

Skijoring is a blast – but it can also be dangerous. The sport’s high-speed nature demands clear communication between you and your dog!

Your best friend should know how to:

• Pull into their harness. We spend a lot of time working on our dogs’ loose-leash skills, but we want them to lean into the resistance while skijoring.


• Follow basic directional cues while moving. At minimum, your dog should be able to start, stop, and turn left and right on cue before you embark on any intense runs. Racing skijorers often say “hike” to start running, “whoa” to stop, “on by” to run past another skijoring team or distraction, “gee” for right, and “haw” for left – but if you’re not planning to compete, you can use any words you want (as long as you’re clear with your dog about what they mean).


• Wait while you set up your skijoring gear. No one wants a tangled line because your pup can’t sit still while you get everything in order… or worse, a dog who takes off before you’re ready to go yourself. A strong stay cue, called “line out” in skijoring races, will keep everyone safe!


• Stay focused even around other dogs or prey animals. Impulse control is a valuable skill for our pets to have in daily life (like when we need them to leave all those tantalizing chicken bones on our city sidewalks) and it’s absolutely vital for successful skijoring! Your puller needs to be able to run by interesting smells, squirrels, and more.

Basic Commands for Skijoring

If you’re just starting out, focus on these basic commands:

• “Hike” (or any word you choose) to start running. Practice this command on leash first, rewarding your dog for moving forward with you. Gradually increase the distance and speed as they get the hang of it. A Sniffspot can be a great place to practice off-leash if your dog has a reliable recall.


• “Whoa” to stop. This one is crucial for safety! Start by practicing “whoa” during regular walks, rewarding your dog for stopping on cue. Eventually, incorporate skis and have them practice stopping while you're moving slowly.


• “Gee” for right and “Haw” for left. These directional commands are helpful for navigating trails. Teach them gradually, using treats or a favorite toy to lure your dog in the desired direction while giving the command. Practice on walks first, then incorporate skis as your dog improves.


• “On by” to pass distractions. This command helps your dog stay focused. Start by practicing with minor distractions, rewarding them for ignoring the distraction and continuing to move forward. Gradually increase the level of distraction as they get better at it. Working with a certified professional dog trainer can be especially helpful if your dog struggles with reactivity.

Training Techniques for Skijoring

Here are some training techniques to help your dog become a skijoring pro:

• Harness Pulling: Teach your dog to pull into their harness by attaching a light weight (like a water bottle or small bag of sand) and encouraging them to move forward. Gradually increase the weight as they get stronger. Remember, a proper skijoring harness is essential for their safety and comfort.


• Directional Cues: Use positive reinforcement to teach directional cues. Start with simple turns and gradually introduce more complex maneuvers. Keep training sessions short and fun to keep your dog engaged.


• "Line Out": Practice the “line out” command (stay) while you get your gear ready. Reward your dog for staying put until you’re ready to move. This prevents tangled lines and ensures a smooth start.


• Impulse Control: Work on impulse control around distractions. Practice having your dog ignore other dogs, squirrels, or interesting smells while on walks. This will help them stay focused during skijoring runs. If your dog is easily distracted, consider practicing in a private Sniffspot where they can focus without the pressure of other dogs or people.

Remember, patience and consistency are key to successful skijoring training. Take things slow, keep it fun, and celebrate your progress along the way!

A humane trainer can help you train skijoring behaviors

Even if they don’t specialize in skijoring, a good force free trainer will be able to help you teach your dog some key sport skills. A private lesson program might be the perfect fit – each session will be tailored to your individual dog and goals!If you don’t have access to an in-person trainer in your area, you might consider ways to get involved virtually by following hashtags like #skijoring on Instagram or finding a pet professional who offers video lessons.

Set goals – and adjust along the way

Many owners skijor just for fun

Today, most dog owners start skijoring simply because it’s something new to do with their companions. If your goal is nothing but fun, that’s fantastic!

Some dog-owner teams want to compete

You might be interested in actually entering a skijoring competition, though, and that’s really cool too. They’re the cousins of sled dog races: high-speed cooperation between human and dog with more of your own power added in.

The best thing you can do before committing is spend some time at competitive skijoring events (without your dog at first). This will help you see if you and your pup would enjoy the environment – and give you the opportunity to chat with people invested in the sport!

Fun should come first

What matters most is enjoying the time we get to spend with our pets.

It’s okay to adjust our goals over time. Maybe your dog will be a complete natural – and you’ll realize competing would be a blast! Or maybe you’ll scrap your skijoring race dreams because they feel like too much pressure. (After all, while competing together can be a great joy, it’s good to remember our pets have no concept of track awards or prize pots.)

But what if there isn’t any snow where I live?

If you don’t have access to frozen terrain but love the idea of skijoring, don’t worry – you can still experience the thrill!

Consider similar sports like canicross (your dog pulls you while you run) or bikejoring (they pull you on your bike). These are great fun on their own and make perfect skijoring practice in the off season. If you ever do find yourself in the ideal winter environment, you and your best friend will be ready to go!

Similar equipment and health needs apply to canicross and bikejoring. You won’t need skis, but you’ll still need a harness that’s safe for your dog to pull into – and if you opt for the bike route, you’ll want to make sure your setup is secure.

As always, it’s important both you and your dog are feeling physically and mentally ready to tackle a new adventure.

Alternatives to Skijoring: Canicross, Bikejoring, and More

If you don’t have access to snowy terrain but love the idea of skijoring, don’t worry! You can still experience the thrill with some similar sports. Two popular alternatives are canicross and bikejoring.

Canicross involves running while your dog pulls you. It's a great way to stay active with your furry friend and enjoy the outdoors. You'll need a comfortable running harness for yourself, a pulling harness designed specifically for canicross (to protect your dog from injury), and a bungee line to connect the two of you. Many canicross enthusiasts find that it's a fantastic way to bond with their dogs while getting exercise.

Bikejoring is similar, but instead of running, you ride a bike while your dog pulls. This activity can be a bit more intense, so it's important to make sure both you and your dog are properly conditioned and have the right equipment. You'll need a bike, a pulling harness for your dog (again, one designed for pulling is essential), and a special bikejoring attachment that keeps the bungee line safely away from your bike's wheels. Learn more about bikejoring and how to get started here.

These activities are great fun on their own and make perfect skijoring practice in the off-season. If you ever find yourself in a snowy environment, you and your best friend will be ready to hit the trails! Similar equipment and health considerations apply to canicross and bikejoring as skijoring. You won’t need skis, but you’ll still need a harness that’s safe for your dog to pull into—never use a standard walking harness for any pulling activity. And if you opt for bikejoring, make sure your setup is secure for both you and your dog. A dog first aid course is a good idea for any dog owner, especially those participating in dog sports. As always, it’s important that both you and your dog are physically and mentally prepared for these activities.

Skijoring is popular for a reason – get out there and have fun!

If skijoring has piqued your interest (and pricked your dog’s ears) there’s no reason to hold back. With the right knowledge, attitude, and just a few pieces of equipment, anyone can give it a go!

Remember these top tips for a successful skijoring experience with your furry best friend:

• Focus on enjoying each other first!


• Don’t be afraid to take things slow (for you and your dog). Get familiar with dog training basics.


• The right equipment can make a world of difference.


• You can never be too prepared – but remember to keep training sessions short.


• Regularly check how your dog feels (and don’t forget about your own wellbeing, too). Stay focused on reading your pup’s body language.


• Did we mention to have fun?

Related Articles

• Comprehensive Guide to Skijoring with Dogs | Dog Sports


• Ultimate Guide to Dog Sledding | Sniffspot


• Beginner’s Guide to Dog Sports | Competitions & Activities


• Bikejoring | Bike Dog Sports | Sniffspot Blog

Trainer that reviewed this article

There is so much misinformation out there, we want to make sure we only provide the highest quality information to our community. We have all of our articles reviewed by qualified, positive-only trainers. The trainers that review our content are reviewed by other trainers to ensure that we have the best quality filters on our content.

This is the trainer that reviewed this article:

Kaia Wilson
CPDT-KA, Owner – Dogspeed Training
kaia.dogspeed@gmail.com
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is skijoring safe for my dog? Skijoring can be a safe and fun activity for you and your dog with proper preparation and equipment. A correctly fitted pulling harness (not a regular walking harness) is crucial to distribute weight evenly and prevent injuries. A bungee leash helps absorb shock and protect both of you from sudden pulls. Start slow, gradually increasing distance and speed as your dog becomes more comfortable. Regular vet checkups are important to ensure your dog is physically fit for this activity. Always prioritize your dog's comfort and well-being. If they show any signs of hesitation or discomfort, stop and reassess.

What kind of dog is best for skijoring? While certain breeds, like Huskies or Pointers, may seem naturally inclined to pulling sports, any dog can potentially enjoy skijoring. The most important factor is your individual dog's personality and enthusiasm. A dog who loves to run and pull, regardless of breed, might be a great candidate. Dogs under 35 pounds can participate, but you'll likely need to provide more of the power yourself. Always ensure your dog's bones and joints are fully developed before starting any pulling activity.

What equipment do I need for skijoring? You'll need cross-country skis (avoid metal edges), a skijoring belt, and warm, layered clothing. For your dog, you'll need a proper pulling harness designed specifically for skijoring, and a bungee leash or towline (around 9 feet long). Never use a regular walking harness for pulling.

Where can I go skijoring? Look for flat, snowy terrain like multi-use trails or dog-friendly fields. Cross-country ski areas may have restrictions on dogs, so always check the rules beforehand. Sniffspot can be a great resource for finding private, dog-friendly locations suitable for skijoring.

How do I train my dog for skijoring? Start by acclimating your dog to the harness and other equipment gradually. Use positive reinforcement and keep training sessions short and fun. Teach basic commands like "hike" (or your chosen word) to start, "whoa" to stop, and directional cues like "gee" and "haw." Practice pulling by attaching a light weight to the harness and gradually increasing it. Work on impulse control around distractions. A certified professional dog trainer can provide personalized guidance and address any specific challenges.