What is Skijoring?

Skijor (ski-jur) is a Norwegian word that means "ski-driving" - that is, a cross-country skier utilizing a dog, or dogs as draft animals.

Skijoring (pronounced SKI-joring, with a hard -j-) is a fast-growing winter sport combining mushing and cross-country skiing.  It's a sport that can be enjoyed on many levels, from jaunts with the family dog, to noncompetitive fun runs, to all-out racing.  

Where do I find equipment ?

The equipment needed for skijoring is fairly simple and relatively inexpensive: in addition to your XC ski equipment, you need a belt, a skijor line that includes a bungee for shock absorption, and a harness for your dog.  Many people prefer skijor belts with leg loops to keep the belt from riding up.

A word on your dog's equipment: your dog's harness should be of the type used for sledding, not one of the walking harnesses common in pet stores.   Many people also put 'booties' on their dogs' feet to keep them comfortable in the snow.  

What Kind of Skis Should I Use?

This is the most common question new skijorers have, and the answer is well... it depends.  Skijorers use different skis under different types of conditions: skate skis for racing on groomed trails, and touring or even back-country skis for less refined conditions.  So, there is no "right" answer to this question.  If you are just beginning to work with your dog, you may want to start with a set of skis that you are comfortable with and progress from there as you and your dog become more confident.  If your local ski shop offers rentals and lessons, this can be an inexpensive way to try different equipment combinations and improve your skiing.  

What Kind of Dog Do You Need ?

Although the Northern Breeds are naturals, many other breeds can learn to enjoy skijoring.  One popular group of nontraditional dogs is field dogs getting some exercise in the off-season, but many other breeds participate as well.  One rule of thumb is that the dog should be over 35 pounds or so.  If you go to a local race, you'll see all kinds of dogs getting in on the action.

If you are looking for a dog to be your skijor buddy, consider a rescue.  There are many deserving adult dogs looking for homes, and you don't have to wait an extra year or two for the dog to grow up as you would with a puppy.

Begining Basics

Start Slow. Keep it Fun. Kick your skis, not the dog.

You must enjoy cross country skiing. If you don't, you'll never convince the dog that this is a good idea.

Set aside the notion that the skier is being towed. The skier, like a good jockey, does everything possible to unburden the dog, allowing it to either reach its maximum speed or maintain a slower pace for distance. Stopping competently on skis is a must. Not being able to endangers the dog and yourself.

All dogs pull instinctively, certain breeds possess the drive, confirmation and strength to excel in sprint races while others displaying those same positive traits, plus thicker coats, wider paws and a tougher psychology are better adapted for distance. An average of 55 pounds is a good rule of thumb, but bigger in this case truly is better.

You'll need a properly fitted harness for the dog, a tether line with a bungee section, a waist belt or climbing harness for yourself and a pack to carry gear and pooper-scooper bags (small trash bags or plastic newspaper wrappers work well.) Finally, be sure to brush up on trail protocol and go out and have some fun!