Why Your Dog Wants You to Try Skijoring

Skijoring involves skiing behind a dog that’s wearing a harness and bungee-cord lead to pull its owner. Any skis will do—skate, classic, touring—as long as the skier has intermediate skills and the pooch is healthy, willing, and over 30 pounds and one year of age. Here’s why your canine buddy thinks you should add skijoring to your repertoire:

He’s tired of being left in the car.

Even in winter, cars in sunny Colorado get hot and it’s no place to leave a dog all day while you log 25k.

It’s safer than being on leash.

Most of us aren’t great at skiing one-handed, and skiing with a dog on a leash isn’t easy. A traditional leash is too short and taut, meaning you run the risk of tripping over each other, or worse, injuring your dog with skis and scaring him off the sport for good. Good skijor equipment allows you both to move safely and with flexibility.

It’s safer than being off-leash, too.

Nordic centers ask dogs to be on leash to protect trail surfaces, guests, area livestock, and prevent dog fights and wildlife encounters. Ask yourself: Can you break up a dog fight while wearing 170cm skis, or out-ski an angry moose your dog riles up? Thought so.

You’ll be better partners.

Your pup will feel your joy as you work together, and having fun builds confidence and your bond.

You’ll both be fitter.

Working out with your pup is extra motivating (can you say no to that crazy wagging tail?) and getting out on the trails with you means your dog can get in a serious workout throughout the winter on a safe, even surface.

How to:

Most Nordic centers rent skijor equipment so you can give it a try. To master it a lesson is best; check for spring skijoring clinics at your area Nordic Centers