Do I need to know how to ski?
Yes, at least to an intermediate level. The dog adds speed and pull, and that makes life much harder for someone who's shaky on skis.
Speed and running
Skijoring
Cross-country skiing for two: the dog pulls and you pole. On packed snow, a well-trained team hits speeds nothing else in dog sport comes close to.
About the discipline
What skijoring is
Skijoring is cross-country skiing with a dog pulling. You wear a belt, the dog wears a pulling harness, and there's a bungee line between you.
The skier isn't just along for the ride. You're poling the whole time, and the good teams run like an engine with two power sources working in step.
Of all the pulling sports it's the gentlest on joints, because the snow cushions every stride. The catch is that you need to be a decent cross-country skier already.
How it works in practice
What it involves
- cross-country skiing, classic technique
- a skijoring belt and a long bungee line
- one or two dogs pulling
- a groomed trail with no traffic
- direction and stop cues
- keep an eye on temperature and snow conditions
Which dogs it suits
- dogs with stamina that cope well with cold
- northern breeds, but not only them
- skiers comfortable with classic technique
Icy or crusty snow can cut pads. Check the paws before and after every outing.
What you need
- cross-country skis and poles
- a skijoring belt
- a bungee line of 2.5 to 3 metres
- a pulling harness
- protective booties, if needed
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about Skijoring
Which breeds suit it?
Northern breeds are the classic pick, but shepherds, pointers and crosses do really well too. What counts is stamina and how well they handle the cold.
Is it risky for the dog's paws?
It can be, on icy or crusty snow. Check the pads before and after, and put booties on when you need to.
What commands must the dog know first?
At the very least: stop, the turns (left, right) and a slow-down cue. On skis you can't steer the dog through the line, and you stop far more slowly than on wheels. So teach the cues fully in canicross, on dry ground, and only then take them onto snow.
The rule figures on this page come from IFSS - International Federation of Sleddog Sports. Rules change and federations differ - always check the rulebook of the competition you are entering.
From the same category
Related sports
Sled Dog Racing
Racing dog teams over snow.
Dryland Mushing
Dog team racing on dry ground.
Greyhound Racing
Speed racing on a track.
Lure Coursing
The dog chases an artificial lure round a course in an open field.
We do not run Skijoring
This page is informational. We work in mantrailing, search and rescue and preparation for the TSAC and BH exams - but if you want an honest opinion on what would suit your dog, write to us anytime.