Finding the right sport for you and your dog isn’t always easy. There are so many options that you will need some time to choose which one is the best. Moreover, high-energy dogs can be extremely difficult to exercise. Nonetheless, some sports like bikejoring, canicross or dog scootering can be good to provide your companion with intense physical activity!
These sports are all cross country activities that can be very fun to enjoy with your pooch. Like any other mushing sports, dog scootering is perfect to keep your companion healthy and happy. I think that my Labrador and I could have a lot of fun trying this activity. However, I had to do some research to understand what is dog scootering exactly?
It’s simply a mushing sport where your dog pulls you with a harness while you’re on a scooter (or kick bike). With some training, gear, and preparation, you could enjoy dog scootering. This activity is sometimes called urban or dryland mushing. It’s also an efficient way to exercise and have fun with your dog on a scooter!
Now, you probably have more questions about this awesome mushing activity. Can your dog enjoy this sport safely? What equipment do you need for dog scootering? Are there some ways to prepare your dog for this intense activity?…
I also had that many questions when I heard about dog scootering. That’s why I decided to create this article for you. At the end of your reading, you will know everything about this sport from the gear needed to how you can get started!
What Is Dog Scootering?
This sport was originally used to keep sled dogs in good shape and health when there’s no more snow. Traditional mushing sports consist of activities or transport methods that are powered by dogs. Therefore, it includes dog sledding, skijoring, carting, dog scootering, etc. Nowadays, many of these canine sports are hobbies that people enjoy to exercise and have fun with their dogs!
Dog scootering is practiced on a special scooter (or kick bike) that is powered by one or two dogs. To keep control while you’re on trails, people and furry friends need to understand mushing commands. That’s the only way to communicate, so it’s crucial to don’t neglect this part. Besides, the dog can run alongside the scooter or in front depending on the model. Nonetheless, it’s more often that your dog will take the lead!
Here’s a small video where you could understand better what is dog scootering!
As you can see in the video this intense sport looks very fun. That’s also a good way to keep your furry companion fit. In general, dogs need around 30 to 60 minutes of daily physical activity. Some of them need up to 2 hours of exercise every day. Therefore, dog scootering could be a great source of exercise!
This sport isn’t only recreational, there are dog scootering competitions. Whether it’s in the US or other countries, there are many races all around the world. To win competitions, it will take an athletic dog(s) and a lot of training. However, with perseverance and hard work, nothing is impossible!
What’s The Difference Between Bikejoring And Dog Scootering?
Once I discover this sport, I’ve searched for similar activities. Be careful to not mix bikejoring with dog scootering. It’s extremely similar, but it’s not the same thing. The only real difference is that with bikejoring you’re on a bike. Therefore, it’s simply cycling with your companion. Dog scootering is normally more slow and safe than bikejoring because it’s only your pooch that pulls you!
How To Get Started With Dog Scootering?
This sport is something I would love to try with my Labrador. If you’re still reading, it’s probably that you are also interested in dog scootering. However, there are many things to know for both of your safety before getting started. Mushing sports are relatively dangerous and intense, but dog scootering can be enjoyed safely if you take some precautions!
Can All Dogs Enjoy Scootering Safely?
The first thing to understand is that some dogs aren’t suitable for this sport. Like any other activity, some specific traits or conditions could restrict your dog to pull a scooter. It’s essential to make sure he can practice urban mushing to avoid unnecessary pain or injury. Now, let’s see what elements make your companion suitable or not for dog scootering!
Breed.
The breed is always interesting to analyze for intense sports. For example, natural runners will be better for dog scootering. However, don’t think that you need a Husky or Malamute to enjoy this sport. You can do it for fun with almost any breed by adapting this activity to your dog’s conditions!
Health.
Your dog’s health is crucial when it’s time to exercise with him. Dog scootering is only for companions that are in good health. Otherwise, they will be more prone to serious injury or pain. Therefore, you should always visit your vet before introducing your buddy to new dog sports!
Shape.
Unfortunately, the size of your dog could restrict him from pulling you on a scooter. Most small furballs won’t be able to keep up running especially if they have something to pull. Besides, too heavy dogs could also have difficulty running long distances. That’s why you should make sure that your dog has the right shape for dog scootering! (Medium-sized, strong, etc.)
Age.
Some dogs could be too young or too old to enjoy this sport safely. Puppies that aren’t fully grown shouldn’t do intense sports at all. They are simply too fragile, and won’t be able to pull a scooter. For old dogs, they can also be more fragile and less active with age. Therefore, your companion’s age can influence if he can enjoy dog scootering safely!
Be Careful With These Dogs!
Now, you know what elements can restrict your dog to enjoy urban mushing. However, it’s not very clear which types of companions you can do intense sports with. Moreover, examples are always very useful to understand better. Let’s see what specific types of dogs to be careful before enjoying dog scootering with them!
- Small Dogs. (Less Than 30 lbs)
- Overweight Companions.
- Brachycephalic (Short-Nosed) Breeds. (Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers…)
- Young Puppies. (Under 1-2 Years Old)
- Dogs With Structural Issues. (Hip Dysplasia, Arthritis…)
- Senior Companions. (Over 7 or 8 Years Of Age)
- Etc.
Most of these dogs shouldn’t do intense sport. Whether it’s because of health or physical restrictions, other lower intensity sports could be better for them. For example, some pooches with hip dysplasia could be able to enjoy dog scootering. However, it will be very painful because of the constant impact on joints of this sport. Therefore activities like swimming or walking are better for them!
Best Breeds For Dog Scootering!
Some dogs are naturally well-suited for mushing sports. Alaskan Husky isn’t the only interesting breed for dryland mushing. Most good furry runners will be awesome for that kind of activity. Furthermore, your dog’s health, athletic capacities, running experience, and other elements can make him well-suited for urban mushing. Here are some of the best dog breeds for dog scootering!
- Huskies.
- Malamutes.
- German Shepherds.
- Dalmatians.
- Collies.
- Great Danes.
- Doberman Pinschers.
- Labradoodles.
- Chinooks.
- Samoyeds.
- Pit Bulls.
- German Shorthaired Pointers.
- Weimaraners.
- Other Mixed Breeds. (From Good Runners)
- Etc.
Is Your Dog Suitable For Dog Scootering?
The best way to have a clear answer to this question is to visit your vet. However, it’s not always necessary even if it’s highly recommended. Dogs that can run 2 or 3 miles quite easily, that are strong, and have good health/shape shouldn’t have any problem enjoying dog scootering. Besides, there are nearly always solutions to adapt this sport to your buddy’s conditions and limits!
What Equipment Do You Need For Dog Scootering?
You will need some dog scootering equipment to get started. The most essential canine gear for mushing sports is the harness. There are many options for every size and type of dog. You should be looking for quality equipment that doesn’t restrict your dog to breathe or run well. Here’s one quality harness [Link Open In a New Tab] that will be perfect to start dog scootering!
The next piece of equipment is the most important to help your dog pulling you. Unfortunately, normal leashes aren’t long enough and won’t be comfortable for both of you. Therefore, you will need a line or rope that absorbs shocks for dog scootering. Here’s an interesting towline [Link Open In a New Tab] for this sport that you can buy on Amazon!
Another essential gear for this sport is the scooter (or kick bike) of course. You don’t need to pay for an expensive kick bike made for dog scootering. Simple scooters or kick bikes like this one [Link Open In a New Tab] on Amazon can be great to get started. However, for those who seriously want to enjoy this activity a lot or do competition, more quality dog kick bikes [Link Open In a New Tab] are always interesting!
Keep in mind that quality is important for your dog’s comfort and safety. Depending on your needs, choose gear that will make this sport more fun for both you and your dog. Don’t forget to bring water, some snacks, and waste bags. Once you have the right dog scootering equipment, it’s time to train your buddy!
Prepare Your Dog For Dryland Mushing!
If you consider starting dog scootering, it’s essential to condition your companion for it. Like any other sport, preparation is the key to enjoy it safely. That’s why you can’t start urban mushing right away. Let’s see how you can prepare and train your dog for this intense sport!
Socialization.
As you know, dogs love to be stimulated by many things. Nonetheless, it can be dangerous that your buddy gets distracted by a squirrel or loud noises while doing dog scootering. That’s why it’s important to make him comfortable with distractions such as strangers, other dogs, wild animals, etc. In other words, socialization could be an excellent idea to avoid unnecessary injuries!
Physical Conditioning.
For dogs, it’s not innate to pull two or three times their weight. However, they can be trained to become more resilient and strong. The first important thing is to provide your dog with proper exercise and nutrition. After that, things like running with weights, canicross or other specific training could condition your dog physically to pull you on a scooter!
Dog Scootering Commands.
This is probably the most important thing that many people will neglect. Voice cues are crucial for both of your safety while dog scootering. Don’t forget that it’s your only way to communicate with your dog. Just imagine how frustrating and dangerous it would be to don’t know how to tell your dog to stop! (You should also master basic obedience training for dogs!)
Equipment Desensitization.
Dogs will take some time before being comfortable with new gear. Whether it’s a harness, your new scooter or running boots, you should introduce your dog to it slowly. For your scootering harness, make him wear it before going out for a ride. Once he feels better and cozy in his dog sport equipment, you’re almost ready to go!
Basic Dog Scootering Training!
There are many ways to teach your dog how to pull you on a scooter. The one that I would recommend to you is to start canicross [Link At The End] before dog scootering. It’s less difficult and safer to start practicing mushing commands. However, you’re not obligated to teach these voice cues to your dog while running or on your scooter. The best place to do this is on daily walks with short distances and a slow pace!
Basic Dog Scootering Commands!
Here are the basic mushing voice cues that you and your dog should learn!
Hike/Hike On/Let’s Go/Lead/Pull. This command tells your dog to start or continue running.
Wait/Stand/Stay. That is a useful cue to remind your companion to not move forward. It’s often used at the start when you’re not ready yet!
Slow/Easy. This command will help you find a slower pace for you and your dog. It simply tells your companion to slow down.
Stop/Whoa/Hold Up. This cue will tell your dog to stop running. This is very important if there’s any kind of problem during your run!
Leave it/Get On. For your dog, there are a lot of distractions in canicross trails. This command will tell your dog to ignore something that gets its attention while he’s running!
Straight. It tells your scootering partner to continue straight at an intersection.
Gee/Right. It tells your dog to move on the right.
Haw/Left. It tells your dog to move on the left.
I won’t explain every step or method to start dog scootering. However, with these commands, good physical preparation and the right equipment you should be alright to start this sport. Therefore, you only need to teach your dog how to pull and the basic mushing commands. Now, you should be ready to go and try it out!
Safety Tips To Get Started With Dog Scootering!
Before letting you go, I’ve some pieces of advice for you. I know that starting a new dog sport isn’t easy at all. It will take time, training, and some investments to eventually enjoy dog scootering. Nonetheless, I’m sure that your work and effort will be worth it. Here are some tips to help you get started safely!
- Start Slow And Short!
- Don’t Do Dog Scootering In Extreme Temperatures!
- Respect Your Dog’s Limits!
- Pay Attention To Your Dog Before, During, And After Your Scootering Rides!
- Have Fun!
Last Thoughts About What Is Dog Scootering!
To conclude, there are a lot of things to know before enjoying dog scootering. Besides, this sport could be extremely interesting for high-energy dogs. Don’t neglect your companion’s exercise needs; it’s crucial for his well-being. However, there are many other similar sports that you should consider to exercise with your dog!
Similar Canine Activities To Dog Scootering!
Now, it’s time to take action. Making some research is always interesting to exercise your dog. Nonetheless, you need to do something with the information you have to become both in better shape. Being pulled on a scooter powered by your companion could be a very fun way to let him spend his energy. I hope this article helps you understand what dog scootering is. Seeing you exercise with your dog on your new kick bike would make me very happy. Have fun!