First off, why even bother? Because it’s awesome, that’s why. Dogs love snow—most of them, anyway. Watching them bound through powder, kicking up clouds like little furry snowplows, is pure joy. If you’re into skiing or snowboarding, bringing your dog along turns a solo shred into a shared adventure. Plus, they’re great company on the skin track or when you’re chilling at the bottom of a run. But it’s not just about fun—it’s about doing it right so nobody gets hurt, especially your four-legged buddy.
Step 1: Know Your Dog
Not every dog is cut out for this. My old mutt, a shaggy shepherd mix, lived for snowy hikes, but my friend’s short-haired pointer? He’d shiver like a leaf after five minutes. Here’s what to consider:
- Breed and Coat: Thick-furred breeds like huskies, malamutes, or Labs are built for cold. Short-haired dogs—think pit bulls or greyhounds—might need extra layers. Check their paws too; some dogs get ice balls between their toes that drive them nuts.
- Energy Level: If your dog’s a couch potato, don’t expect them to keep up with a 10-mile backcountry tour. High-energy pups—herding breeds, retrievers, or anything that chases squirrels for fun—are your best bet.
- Age and Health: Puppies and old dogs might struggle. Joint issues, arthritis, or just being too young to handle deep snow mean you should talk to your vet first.
- Personality: Does your dog listen? Can they handle chaos? A slope full of skiers or a windy ridge isn’t the place for a spaz who bolts at every noise.
If your dog’s not ready, start small—snowy walks or a quick romp in the yard—before you strap on the skis.
Step 2: Gear Up—You and the Pup
You’ve got your skis or board, but your dog needs some stuff too. Here’s the rundown:
For You
- Skis or Snowboard: Cross-country skis are great for beginners with dogs—slower pace, no sharp edges. I’ve used classic XC skis with my dog trotting beside me, and it’s chill. Snowboards or alpine skis work for backcountry, but you’ll need control (more on that later). If you’re new to this, skip the metal-edged skis—plastic edges are safer for dog legs.
- Poles: Optional for snowboarders, but skiers need them. Just watch where you plant ‘em—dogs don’t dodge well.
- Backpack: Toss in your usual stuff—water, snacks, first-aid kit—but add space for dog gear.
For Your Dog
- Jacket or Blanket: If it’s below freezing or your dog’s coat is thin, grab a doggy jacket. I’ve used a quilted one from a pet store—keeps ‘em toasty. A packable blanket works too for breaks.
- Booties: Snow clumps in paws, and sharp crust can cut. Cheap booties slip off, so get sturdy ones with Velcro. My dog hated them at first—kept kicking like a toddler—but after a few tries, he was fine.
- Harness: A regular collar won’t cut it. For skijoring (where your dog pulls you), get a pulling harness—padded, snug, lets them breathe. For regular romping, a basic harness keeps them safe if you leash up.
- Leash: A bungee leash is gold—absorbs jolts if they lunge. I’ve got one that clips to my waist, hands-free. Regular leash works too, but keep it short on descents.
- Water and Snacks: Snow isn’t enough—dogs need real water. Pack a collapsible bowl and some kibble or treats. Cold burns calories fast.
Step 3: Pick the Right Spot
You can’t just roll up to any ski resort with Fido. Most downhill spots ban dogs during operating hours—too many people, too much chaos. Here’s where to go:
- Backcountry: Ungroomed, untouched snow is dog heaven. Find a forest service road or a mellow hill near home. Check avalanche risks—don’t mess around without training and gear (beacon, shovel, probe).
- Cross-Country Trails: Groomed XC trails are perfect for skiing with dogs. Some spots, like Bear Notch in New Hampshire or Methow in Washington, welcome pups. Call ahead—rules vary.
- Resorts Before/After Hours: Some places let dogs on trails pre-opening or post-closing. Devil’s Thumb Ranch in Colorado is one—dog-friendly cabins too. Research it.
- Your Backyard: No mountains? No problem. A snowy park or field works for practice.
Wherever you go, start mellow. A steep chute with crusty snow is a recipe for wiped-out dogs and frustrated humans.
Step 4: Train Before You Terrain
Your dog’s not a pro skier out of the gate, and neither are you with them. Practice these:
- Commands: “Stay back” or “behind” keeps them out of your path. I yell “go go go” when I’m about to pass—my dog scoots aside. “Sit” and “wait” are clutch for descents. Start on flat ground, no skis, with treats.
- Pace Control: Dogs love to sprint, but deep snow tires them out. Teach them to trot beside or behind you. A leash helps at first.
- Edge Awareness: Skis and boards have sharp edges—my friend nicked his dog’s leg once, and it was a bloody mess. Practice slow turns with them nearby so they learn to dodge.
- Skijoring (Optional): Want them to pull? Use a harness and bungee line. Start with “hike” (go) and “whoa” (stop). My neighbor’s husky drags him around like a sled—it’s hilarious but takes work.
Dry runs in the yard or a park build trust. Don’t hit the slopes cold.
Step 5: Hit the Snow—Safety First
You’re geared up, trained up, and ready. Here’s how to shred with your dog:
Uphill
- Skiing: On XC trails, let them run beside or behind. Backcountry? Skin up with them following your track—keeps their paws safe from crust. I’ve done short loops with my dog trailing me, and he loves it.
- Snowboarding: Splitboarders can skin up like skiers. Regular boarders, you’re hiking—dog can roam, but keep ‘em close if it’s steep.
Downhill
- Skiing: Start slow on gentle slopes. Let them run behind—powder slows them down, so they won’t crash into you. Sharp edges are the enemy—control your speed and turns.
- Snowboarding: Same deal—go easy. Dogs love chasing, but a wipeout with them underfoot is bad news. I’ve carved mellow runs with my dog bounding alongside, and it’s a riot.
Watch the Weather
- Too cold (below 0°F) and thin-coated dogs suffer. Too warm, and snow clumps in fur. Windy ridges suck for everyone—stick to sheltered spots.
Breaks
- Stop often. Give water, check paws for ice, and let them rest. My dog plops down after a good run—snow’s exhausting.
Step 6: Emergency Prep
Stuff happens. A ski edge clips a leg, they punch through crust, or they just poop out. Be ready:
- First Aid: Pack vet wrap, gauze, and a small ointment tube. I’ve got a tiny kit that fits my pocket—saved me when my dog scraped a paw.
- Carry Plan: Small dog? Scoop ‘em up. Big dog? A tarp or emergency sling (like Fido Pro’s Airlift) works. I’ve hauled my 60-pounder a half-mile—tough, but doable.
- Know Your Exit: Don’t go where you can’t get out fast. A vet’s number in your phone doesn’t hurt either.
Step 7: Keep It Fun
The goal’s a good time, not a mission. If your dog’s shivering, limping, or just done, call it. I’ve bailed early when my pup looked beat—better safe than sorry. Reward them with treats, praise, or a warm car ride home.
Bonus: Where to Go
- Colorado: Pagosa Nordic—dog-friendly trails, skijoring clinics.
- New Hampshire: Bear Notch—65km of groomed XC with dogs allowed.
- Washington: Methow Trails—tons of space for pups to run.
- Your Spot: Google “dog-friendly ski trails near me” or ask locals.
Wrap-Up
Skiing or snowboarding with your adventure dog is a blast if you prep right. Match their vibe, gear up smart, pick safe terrain, and train a bit. Start small—a snowy hill near home—and build up. You’ll figure out what works for you two. For me, it’s the best when my dog’s kicking up powder while I glide down, both of us grinning like idiots. Get out there and make some memories—just keep those paws and edges apart!
