Kicksledding with Your Dog: A Fun Winter Adventure
Looking for a fun way to enjoy winter with your dog? Kicksledding is a great outdoor activity that lets you and your four-legged companion explore snowy trails together!
Easy to learn and enjoyable for both humans and dogs, a traditional kicksled can be pulled by one or two dogs. And the best part? Your dog doesn't need to be an experienced sled dog to get started!
A Great Way to Keep Your Dog Active
Kicksledding is an excellent way for your dog to burn off energy, stay active and enjoy the outdoors during the winter months.
It's also a team activity! Your dog provides the pulling power while you help propel the kicksled with one foot whenever needed. Working together makes this a fun and rewarding experience for both of you.
And after a good outdoor adventure, there's a good chance your dog will enjoy a well-deserved nap!
What Equipment Do You Need for Kicksledding with Your Dog?
Getting started is easy! You only need a few essential items to enjoy kicksledding with one or two dogs.
1. A Traditional Kicksled
You'll need a traditional kicksled designed for use on snow. Finnish traditional kicksleds are lightweight, easy to handle and versatile, making them an ideal choice for kicksledding with your dog. They can be pulled by one or two dogs, but can also be used on their own whenever your dog needs a rest or when you simply want to enjoy a solo winter ride. It's like having two winter activities in one!
2. A Bungee dog leash and Dog Attachment System
A bungee line connects your dog's harness to the kicksled. Its elastic section helps absorb sudden pulls and reduces jolts during movement.
A suitable attachment system allows you to connect one or two dogs to your kicksled.
3. A Dog Pulling Harness
Your dog will need a properly fitted pulling harness designed for dog-powered activities. A suitable harness helps distribute the pulling force comfortably across your dog's body. Make sure your dog has the right harness before getting started.
4. A Kicksled Brake
A brake is an important accessory that helps you control and slow down your kicksled, particularly when travelling downhill or when your dog gets excited.
The Easy Way to Get Started: Traditional Kicksled with Musher Kit
Want everything ready for your winter adventures? Our Traditional Kicksled with Musher Kit is a convenient complete package.
The Musher Kit includes the essential accessories for kicksledding with one or two dogs:
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Dog attachment system
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Bungee towline
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Kicksled brake
Simply add a suitable pulling harness for your dog, and you're ready for your winter adventures!
Buying the complete package is also a great way to save compared with purchasing the kicksled and accessories separately.
Looking for a More Sport-Oriented Option? Meet the Adventure Sled!
Designed for active dog-powered adventures, the ESLA Adventure Sled for Mushing is a high-performance, multi-purpose sports kicksled built for mushing enthusiasts.
Its aluminum frame features shock absorption to handle uneven terrain and provide a smoother, more controlled ride, even at higher speeds. It can be pulled by one or two dogs, and experienced mushers can even harness up to four dogs!
Complete Dogsledding Equipment Package Included
The ESLA Adventure Sled comes with a complete dogsledding equipment package, including:
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Double brake
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Dog line adapter
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Elastic dog line for one or two dogs (your choice)
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Neckline (included with the two-dog package)
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Leash mounting clips
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Front dog safety hoop
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Glide plate
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Frame pad
The Adventure Sled also features a foldable design, making it easier to transport and store, even with the brake and dog equipment installed.
Does Your Dog Need Special Training?
Not necessarily! Some dogs naturally understand the idea of running while pulling a kicksled, while others may need a little time and guidance.
Start slowly and let your dog become familiar with the equipment. Positive encouragement and short practice sessions can help build confidence and establish good teamwork.
If your dog needs additional guidance, consider working with a trainer experienced in dog-powered sports.
Where Should You Go Kicksledding?
For the best experience, choose groomed snow trails whenever possible. Smooth, compacted snow provides better glide and makes it easier for your dog to pull the kicksled.
Remember that kicksledding is a team effort. When going uphill, through difficult sections or whenever your dog needs a break, help by pushing the kicksled with one foot, just as you would when riding without a dog.
Always adapt the distance and pace to your dog's fitness level and take breaks when needed.
Ready for a Winter Adventure with Your Dog?
Kicksledding is a fantastic way to share the outdoors, stay active and create unforgettable winter memories with your faithful companion.
Get your kicksled ready, bring your dog along and make the most of winter!
Explore our kicksleds and Musher Kits at GoSlide and get ready for your next winter adventure!
You have questions? Contact us at info@goslide.ca