Beginner’s Guide: How to Start Nordicjoring With Your Dog

So you’re ready to give Nordicjoring a go? Great choice! Whether you're a seasoned Nordic walker or just starting out, adding your dog into the mix brings a fun, team-oriented twist to your walks. This guide breaks down exactly what you need and how to get started safely and successfully.

Step 1: Understand What Nordicjoring Is

Nordicjoring combines Nordic walking (walking with poles for fitness) and dog-powered movement. You walk with poles while your dog—wearing a proper harness—is attached to your waist with a hands-free leash. Your dog provides a gentle pull, helping you move faster and turning a regular walk into an engaging, low-impact cardio session. It is amazing for uphill!

It’s great for:

• Active dogs that love to lead
• Dog owners looking to boost their fitness
• People who want to strengthen the bond with their dog through teamwork

Step 2: Gear Checklist – What You’ll Need

Here’s the gear you’ll want before you hit the trail:

✅ For You:

• Nordic walking poles
  Get in touch if you need help choosing the right poles for you.
• Hands-free walking belt
  A padded belt that clips securely around your waist and connects to your dog via a towline. Look for one of our options from Ruffwear and get in touch if you are not sure what to buy—it should stay snug and distribute pulling force evenly.

✅ For Your Dog:

• Pulling harness
  NOT a regular collar or standard harness! Use a  specialist joring style harness that’s made to allow safe pulling while keeping your dog comfortable, like the Ruffwear Omnijore system, or the FrontLine harness.
• Bungee leash or towline
  This shock-absorbing leash attaches from your dog’s harness to your belt. It softens any sudden tugs or pulls for a smoother experience.

✅ Optional But Recommended:

• Dog booties (for rough trails or snow)
• Collapsible water bowl and water
• Reflective gear or light for visibility
• Poop bags (leave no trace!)

Step 3: Train Your Dog to Nordicjor

You don’t need a sled dog to do Nordicjoring—just an eager pup, a bit of patience, and some basic training.

🐕 Start with the basics:

• Practice loose leash walking and good recall.
• Teach simple directional cues like:
• “Let’s go” – to start
• “Whoa” or “Easy” – to slow down or stop
• “Gee” – right, “Haw” – left (optional, but fun to train!). Max has mastered Gee for turning right but isn’t so keen on Haw for left yet!

🐕 Build it up:

• Start with short sessions on quiet trails or parks.
• Let your dog get used to the harness and being out front.
• Reward them with praise, treats, or a short play break.

🌲 Step 4: Choose Your Route

Look for dog-friendly trails or paths with:

• Natural terrain (gravel, dirt, or grass trails)
• Minimal traffic and distractions
• Enough space for your dog to lead safely in front of you

Avoid pavement or hot asphalt in warmer months—it’s hard on paws and joints.

Step 5: Keep It Safe and Fun

• Warm up and cool down: Just like people, dogs need time to ease in and out of activity. Let ouyr dog have a bit of off lead fun before you start.
• Stay hydrated: Bring water for both of you.
• Watch the weather: Avoid extreme heat or ice.
• Check your dog’s paws after walks for any cuts.

And remember: the goal is teamwork. You’re moving as a unit, so keep communication positive and the experience enjoyable for both of you.

🐶 Let’s Recap: Quick Start Checklist

✅ Nordic walking poles
✅ Hands-free belt
✅ Dog pulling harness
✅ Bungee towline
✅ Trained or trainable dog
✅ Trail-friendly walking route
✅ Positive attitude!

Final Tip: Start small and grow together. Nordicjoring isn’t a race—it’s an adventure, one paw and pole at a time.