freinds on the trail photo by Paul Schute
What is Skijoring?
Skijoring is cross-country skiing while being pulled by your dog(s). It is a sport that originated in Scandinavia several hundred years ago and is quickly gaining popularity States side. One type of skijoring is done behind horses. However, I teach skijoring as a team sport with you and your dog. Dog skijoring shares many traditions with dog sledding, and sled dog clubs and races often have a skijor component.
Skijoring can be done on any type of cross country ski. At slower speeds or in deeper snow, it is done on classic or touring skis…even backcounty skis! At faster speeds and on groomed trails, skate skiing is often the preferred choice.
Why Skijoring?
Skijoring is FUN. Skijoring is a healthy way for people to get ourdoors with their K9 companions. It is also a fantastic way for both you and your dog to get exercise in the winter. As a team sport, it builds and enhances the relationship between you and your dog as you learn to work together. It is easy to learn and to enjoy.
The equipment attaches dogs and owners via a bungee cord lead (see our equipment section for more details) Thus, at cross country ski areas where dog trails require leashes, or in Wilderness areas, you can still ski, have your hands free and get exercise with your dog while being in compliance with leash regulations.
What Type of Dogs can skijor?
A rule of thumb is that any healthy dog over 30 pounds who likes to pull can skijor. However, from my experience, I am willing to give pretty much any dog a chance if it makes sense and if the dog is healthy. Be sure that your dog is in good health, has plenty of water and that their joints are also in good health. If you have any questions, you should consult your veterinarian.
Some dogs will catch on quickly while others take some more training and coaching. Whether or not your dog is fast or slow, the ultimate goal is to become a team that enjoys this sport together. In private lessons and public workshops we work with all types of dogs, and using positive, gentle techniques to help your dog learn to pull.
Sherman the Basset Hound learning to SkiJor
Do I need to be an expert skier?
You should be comfortable on cross country skis and able to stop, slow down and change direction before hooking yourself up to your dog. If you want to travel at fast speeds on groomed trails we would recommend learning skate skiing as well. As a certified and experienced ski instructor, I am happy to offer individual or group lessons to help you learn to nordic ski or refine your skiing technique.
A basic level of fitness on your part is also required. Remember this is a team sport. You are actively skiing while your dog is pulling. Being able to sustain a 5 km ski at a comfortable pace without your dog would be recommended before hooking up to your dog.
Note: Because skijoring is both a human and dog powered sport, it is done with cross country skis not downhill skis. It is necessary to have your heels free for propulsion.
Where can I skijor?
Several Nordic centers in Colorado have dog trails for skijoring, including Breckenridge Nordic Center, Crested Butte Nordic Center, Devil’s Thumb Ranch, Gold Run Nordic Center, Snow Mountain Ranch and Tennessee Mountain Nordic Center. The extent of dog friendly trail systems varies per center. Call ahead for details and please follow dog regulations. More Nordic center information can be found at ColoradoCrossCountry.com
Additionally, Colorado has miles of back country trails just waiting to be explored by you and your dog. Learn about how to travel safely in avalanche terrain. Remember, you must make important decisions for both you and your dog.
Weather and Avalanche information can be found Colorado Avalanche Information Center. Also, please follow USFS and Wilderness area regulations.
What are other activities for my dog and I when the snow melts?
Canicross is running or hiking with your dog using the same harness and lead setup you have been using to skijor. Some people like to use a lighter belt or shorter lead for this (see our equipment section). Again, when hiking and camping in Wilderness areas, this set up takes care of leash regulations!
The Canicross set up also allows dog owners to Nordic walk. Nordic walking is another fast growing sport in both Europe and the United States and Canada. Nordic walking is walking using Nordic ski poles and the upper body motions used while cross country ski striding. It is a great low impact aerobic workout that tones your upper body as well as your legs.
See the Summer Activites section for more information