A winter cousin of canicross, skijoring combines cross-country skiing with canine traction — a sport on the rise in snowy regions, offering the dog an intense activity suited to the cold season.

The principle and equipment

The principle follows that of canicross: a specific pulling harness, an elastic line connected to a belt worn by the skier, but with cross-country skis instead of running. The technique requires mastering cross-country skiing before even considering adding a dog to the equation.

Which dogs for skijoring

Northern breeds (Husky, Malamute, Greenland Dog) remain naturally well represented thanks to their build suited to cold and pulling, but many other athletic breeds (Pointers, Border Collie, mixed breeds) also practice this discipline successfully.

Cold-specific precautions

  • Protecting paw pads against cold, ice, and de-icing salt
  • Monitoring for hypothermia, particularly in short-haired breeds poorly suited to intense cold
  • Hydration: often neglected in winter, even though physical effort remains just as dehydrating as in hot weather

A progression similar to canicross

As with canicross, introducing the equipment and pulling effort must remain gradual, with particular attention paid to the skier's technique before introducing speed and distance.