Dog Sports - Dog Scootering » DogHeirs | Where Dogs Are Family « Keywords: dog sports, agility, bikejoring, Cani-Cross

Dog scootering

Dog scootering is a sport where one or more dogs pull a human riding an unmotorized kick scooter.

Similar to bikejoring, or sulky riding, the dog(s) wear special harnesses and are hooked to the scooter with a towline/gangline. The gangline has a bungee cord which smooths the ride.

Most of the same commands used for mushing are used in dog scootering, although dog scooterers tend to be more relaxed about their commands, sometimes using "right" and "left" instead of "gee" and "haw", for example.

The scooters usually have mountain-bike style tires, which range in size from 16 inches to 26 inches. They have a large footboard and mountain-style bike brakes. Some of the newer scooters also incorporate front shocks similar to mountain bikes to absorb bumps better.

Many dogs, from Huskies, to Great Danes, and Schnauzers to Pit Bulls participate in dog scootering. Any dog over 30 pounds can pull a scooter, but smaller dogs in teams can also be used. All dogs, regardless of size, must be slowly worked into fitness.

Dog scootering In this sport, special care should be paid to the dog's paws, which may take time to adjust to runs and ground conditions. Booties should always be carried for cuts and abrasions, as well as a first aid kit to treat any possible cuts and abrasions.

While this can be an urban sport, done on sidewalks and paved trails, dog scooterers more commonly take the sport off-road to mountain-bike trails and back-country roads, where a higher level of skill is needed. There is also less chance of having to dodge people or motor vehicle traffic on these trails.

Dog scootering provides good exercise for the dog and the rider. The dog gets exercise pulling the scooter, but people have to help push, especially up hills.

The sport is still maturing, and although many people of all ages simply do it recreationally, there are a few formal official dog races that include dog scootering.