How to Get Started with Skijoring

So you've seen Skijoring, you know what it is and you've got an anxious dog at home just ready to run! Before you tie yourself in to the sharp end of Skijoring, your going to need a few important things.

Before you start your Skijoring you need the gear! Any of your old cross-country ski gear will do the job including skis (classic, skate, or backcountry), poles and boots. Next, you'll need to get yourself a Skijor belt, preferably with leg loops. Your dog needs a harness as well, but not any kind will do. A special dogsledding or skijor harness is designed to distribute the pulling load over your dogs body evenly, so opt for one of those. Fit and comfort are key for you dog, make sure to shop around and good the proper harness. Finally, you'll need a tugline to link up with your dog and enjoy Skijoring. The tugline connects you to your tug, so it should have a bungee on it to absorb the shock for sudden jerks on the tugline. You'll also want some safety items like a helmet, ski goggles, knee pads, and wrist guards. As for your dog, any good sized dog that loves to run will do, Skijoring isn't just for huskies or sled-dogs, any breed will do just fine. When I say 'good size' I mean that if you have a rambunctious dog of 30 pounds or heavier, and she loves to run, chances are you've got a great skijoring dog.

The dog is just as important as the skier, it's a team after all, so there are a few things to help out your dog so the Skijoring experience goes smoothly. Be aware of your dogs mood and don't rush him/her in to anything. If your dog is scared, maybe back of until and go in baby steps. If you aren't Skijoring on day 1, don't sweat it. Also, try to be an accomplished skier before you try Skijoring. It's no fun when both you and your dog are feeling extremely awkward. Chances are your dog will get used to it quickly, but if you are still struggling to ski, it won't be an fun. Get your ski legs under you first, practice your cross-country ski technique, and once you feel you've got good balance while skiing, then try hooking up your dog. Remember, patience is the key to learning this great sport. You'll need to master a few commands while Skijoring and it's a good idea to practice them on land with your dog before you strap on your skis. They are:

Line Out/Out Front = Get Ready but Wait
Hike/Let's Go = Start Running
Easy= Slow Down
Whoa = Stop
Gee = Turn Right
Haw = Turn Left
On-By = Continue past any distraction
Gee Over = move to the right
Haw Over = move to the left
Come around = turn around

If you can train your dog to perform these commands on land when you have control, it will be a lot easier to do once on skis and she's strapped in to a harness. Set your dog up to perform the commands on your daily walks, much the same way you would train them for proper walking or tricks. Keeping your lessons short and with rewards (like treats) will definitely help out your success rate.

Once you start out skijoring, have a partner stand about 100 feet away with dog treats. After you manage those short distances with commands, take the treats away and head out on some longer runs. Keep your workouts short and always monitor your dogs energy levels. Stop if you think they are too exhausted. Keep a sense of humor about it as well. There will be times your dogs make mistakes and there will also be times you fall flat on your face. Chances are, it you can laugh about your Skijoring experiences, you and your dog(s) will have a better time for it. Once you have the basics of Skijoring down, you'll be able to go for long cruises and maybe even try some long distance Skijoring. One thing is for sure, your dog will be jumping all over the room every time you pull the Skijoring harness out of the closet.