Dogsledding

NAMA members often sled and skijor on the groomed trails leading from the Blackfoot Staging Area of the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Recreation Area.

To access the parking lot, drive east of Edmonton on HWY 16 (the Yellowhead Highway) past the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village on the south side and the entrance to Elk Island Provincial Park on the north to Range Road 195. Turn south and drive about 4 km to the parking lot)

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Skijoring

Skijoring is a dog-powered winter sport whereby a cross-country skier using freestyle skiing technique is attached to a dog team.  Usually one to two dogs are used with three dogs for longer distances.  Dogs use the usual harnesses, running side-by-side connected by a neckline.  The two tug lines combine to a single towline with a minimum overall length of 7 feet.  This towline is connected via a quick release snap to the skijoring belt of the skier.  To compensate for jerky movements, a bungee cord section is incorporated into the towline.  The skier uses either a 4 inch wide padded hip belt or a broader pelvic racing belt that allows the skier to be pulled at a lower center of gravity.  Thigh straps prevent this type of belt from riding up above the waist.

In races the ski-tips are at the start line and are timed as they cross the finish line.  The dogs must cross the finish line ahead of the skier.

Any dog willing to run in front of a skier can be trained for skijoring.  A minimum weight might be 35 to 40 pounds depending on the weight and ability of the skier.  Skijoring dogs are trained as command lead dogs and must quickly respond to directions.

Skijoring is not a sport for the beginning skier.  The skier must first develop the coordination and balance to ensure safe, smooth continuous movement before attempting to train a dog for skijoring.  Frequent jerking or falling discourages and confuses most dogs.

Skijoring provides for a special relationship between the skier and his dogs with both contributing equally to the athletic effort.  It is a rewarding and fun way to exercise for both you and your dog.