![\"Skijoring\"](\"https:\/\/explore.globalcreations.com\/theblog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/01\/header.jpg\")
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Skijoring is simply cross country skiing with a motive force to help move you along. \u00a0The word comes from the Norwegian\u00a0skikj\u00f8ring<\/i>\u00a0meaning ski driving. \u00a0You are basically on skis driving along with the help of your engine.<\/p>\n Skijoring While skijoring can be done with horses or even a motor vehicle, many people enjoy getting out with their dogs. \u00a0If your dog likes to pull you along and is inclined to go in the desired direction, or if you can train the dog, you can do some skijoring. \u00a0Smaller dogs, of course, don’t have the strength to do much pulling or the ability to handle deep snow very well, but you can still propel yourself while letting\u00a0your dog do what they\u00a0can.<\/p>\n For more serious skijoring you will want a larger dog. \u00a0If you are into speed, huskies are a good choice. \u00a0Malamutes are a better choice if you want a stronger dog that does’t take off quite as fast. \u00a0Any larger dog, like a retriever,\u00a0German shepherd,\u00a0pointer or setter, can also work. \u00a0No need to get a new dog; \u00a0give yours a try first.<\/p>\n The key to making this sport work is to have your dog properly attached to you. \u00a0As a kid, \u00a0I’d hold my beagle’s leash and let her try to pull me. \u00a0It didn’t go well. \u00a0She didn’t like it much and you wouldn’t either if you were choking yourself while trying to pull with your collar. \u00a0The most critical equipment need is a harness for your dog like those used for sled dogs. \u00a0Next you need a tow line\u00a0to connect your dog to yourself and, finally a belt\u00a0for yourself that will stay in position without cutting\u00a0into your body. \u00a0The photos above and below shows what a properly equipped skijorer looks like.<\/p>\n This skijorer is using\u00a0the Ultra Paws Basic Skijor Package<\/a>. \u00a0The package includes an\u00a0adjustable harness (for dogs with a 12\u00a0to\u00a024 inch collar and 30 to\u00a075 pounds in weight) that crosses over the dog’s back where the attachment point is located. \u00a0It is also well constructed and properly padded. \u00a0The webbed tow line has an integrated bungie system so that your ride remains smooth as your dog changes up its speed. \u00a0The hip belt that you wear is adjustable from 32 to 44 inches and sits at the hips over your clothing. \u00a0It also has a quick release system in case you need to get free in a hurry. \u00a0A special tacky coating on the belt helps it stay in place and not slide around on your clothing – a nice touch.<\/p>\n In many cases, snow conditions can be hard on your dog’s feet. A set of rugged dog boots As with any sport of this nature, some people\u00a0want to make a competition of it. \u00a0Skijor races typically take place on groomed tracks where the skier can skate along at a rapid pace. \u00a0Is some cases a skier may have up to three dogs on their team. \u00a0They typically run from 5 to 20 kilometers in length and are often offered in conjunction with sled dog races.<\/p>\n There are sometimes local races, but major events are sanctioned by the International Sled Dog Racing Association<\/a>\u00a0in the\u00a0United States and Canada, European Sled Dog Racing Association<\/a>\u00a0in Europe, and the\u00a0International Federation of Sleddog Sports<\/a>\u00a0that\u00a0sanctions World Cup races all over the world. \u00a0If you have a competitive streak, you can probably find a race in which to compete.<\/p>\n Here is a short video with an introduction to skijoring and a\u00a0look at a local skijoring event.<\/p>\nSkijoring With Your Dog<\/h1>\n
![\"Skijoring\"](\"https:\/\/explore.globalcreations.com\/theblog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/01\/Skij\u043ering-800.jpg\")
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Click for a Larger Version<\/p><\/div>\nEquipment<\/h1>\n
<\/p>\n<\/a>\u00a0will protect their feet and keep them happily involved.<\/p>\nCompetitive Skijoring<\/h1>\n
Video<\/h1>\n
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