Bikejöring - take off on two wheels with your dog

What is bikejoring anyway?

Bikejoring is a dog sport in which your dog runs in front of your bike and pulls you. This discipline originally comes from the sport of pulling dogs, which began in Scandinavia with sled dogs. In bikejoring, however, the focus is on the bike. Your dog wears a special pulling harness and a flexible leash connects it to your bike.

Bikejoring is ideal for medium to large, active dogs who enjoy running and pulling. It is both a competitive sport and a recreational activity and offers you and your dog a way to explore the outdoors together.

Why is bikejoring so great for your dog?

For many dogs, bikejoring is the perfect combination of exercise, challenge and fun. Here are some reasons why your dog could benefit from it:

• Sufficient exercise: many dog breeds, such as Huskies, Malinois or Border Collies, have a strong urge to exercise. Bikejoring gives them the opportunity to really work out.
• Strengthening the muscles: Pulling trains your dog's muscles, especially in the chest and shoulder area.
• Mental challenge: When bikejoring, your dog has to understand and implement commands such as "Go", "Left" or "Right". This promotes mental fitness.
• Bonding with you: adventures together strengthen the trust between you and your dog.

Which dogs are suitable for bikejoring?

Not every dog is automatically made for this sport. Here is an overview of the most important requirements:

• Body size and weight: Your dog should weigh at least 15 to 20 kg and have a certain height so that it can pull you effectively.
• Health: Before starting, your dog should be checked by a vet to make sure their joints and muscles are healthy.
• Temperament: Your dog should be eager to run and enjoy exercise. Very sedate or older dogs are not suitable.
• Willingness to pull: Some dogs naturally love to pull - this characteristic is of course an advantage when bikejoring.

The right equipment for bikejoring

You need the right equipment to ensure that you are safe and comfortable on the trail. Here is a list of the most important things:

Harness for the dog

A special pulling harness ensures that the pressure is evenly distributed and that your dog can move freely. It should fit well and not restrict the shoulders.

Bikejoring leash with shock absorber

An elastic leash (often called a "bungee leash") reduces jerky movements and thus protects you and your dog.

Bike antenna

A bike antenna prevents the leash from getting tangled in the front tire of your bike - an important safety aspect.

The right bike

A robust mountain bike is ideal, especially if you are riding on uneven terrain. Disc brakes provide better control.

Protective clothing

Don't forget to protect yourself. A bike helmet and gloves are a must, and depending on the route, knee and elbow pads may also be useful.

How do you get started with bikejoring?

Step 1: Laying the foundations

Before you get started, your dog should master the basic commands. The most important bikejoring commands include:

• "Go" or "Go": start signal
• "Stop": To stop
• "Left"/"Right": For changing direction
• "Slow": To reduce the speed

Step 2: First training steps

Slowly get your dog used to the harness and lead. Let him pull without the bike at first to familiarize him with the new task.

Step 3: Practice on the bike

Start on a straight and quiet route. Start at a moderate pace so as not to overtax your dog. Reward him with treats or praise when he carries out the commands correctly.

Step 4: Build up stamina and endurance

Gradually increase the duration and intensity of the sessions. Make sure you take regular breaks, especially on warm days.

Safety when bikejoring

Safety first - for you and your dog. Here are some tips to avoid accidents and injuries:

• Protect their paws: On hard or stony surfaces, dog shoes can protect your dog's paws.
• Avoid overheating: Bikejoring is only recommended in temperatures below 15 degrees, as dogs can quickly overheat.
• Take breaks: Give your dog enough time to drink and rest.
• Observe legal requirements: In Germany, it is important that your dog remains controllable during bikejoring and does not pose a danger to others.

Competitions and community

Do you want to take your bikejoring level to the next level? There are many competitions and events where you can put your skills to the test. In Germany, for example, the Verband für Zughundesport (VDH) regularly organizes bikejoring races. You can also find many like-minded people on forums or social media who share their experiences and tips.

Conclusion: A sport for you and your dog

Bikejoring is a great way to be active together and enjoy nature. It challenges and encourages both of you - physically and mentally. With the right preparation and equipment, nothing stands in the way of fun on two wheels.

What do you think?

Have you ever tried bikejoring or are you curious? Feel free to share your experiences and questions in the comments!