Are you a poser or a real sk8er boi or grrl? If you’re the real deal, we’ve put together a few tips on how to skateboard safely with your dog.
I’m headed home on a beautiful day, sun on my face, board beneath my feet. Skateboarding surely is one of the best ways to get around during the summer. My pleasant thoughts quickly dissolve as I look down the street to see a guy on a skateboard being pulled along by his dog.
The dog is panting, but this dude isn’t even breaking a sweat!
It’s a hot day and the dog doesn’t look too happy to be pulling this poser. “Hey! That is NOT cool,” I shout, but he ignores me and takes off down the street. Grrrrr – I need to up my street cred. That’s why I wrote this article, in the hopes that the guy sees it and learns a thing or two. And even if he never reads it, at least you will.
Related:Mountain Boarding With Dogs Part 1
Since of the dawn of time (or at least, the dawn of strapping wheels to a piece of wood), people have come to realize how awesome dogs and skateboards can be. To be successful and safe, there are a few simple things to keep in mind, so you don’t get in over your head…or head over heels… or heels over head. Anyway, read this and avoid disaster.
It’s not your dog’s job to pull you around. Yeah, I know, you’ve seen footage of the Iditarod and a few dog-sledding movies as well. Dogs love to run, dogs love to pull – I get it! You are preaching to the choir! I am the PetGuide poster boy for dog-powered sports. But guess what? It’s NEVER your dog’s job to haul you around. A musher on a sled with 16 dogs still kicks to help them out. Yes, 16, and still kicking! And you’re letting your dog pull you around all on his own? Not cool, dude.
Avoid pavement
Keep it cool.
That seems like a negative list – sorry if I bummed you out. What can I say? I’m a passionate advocate for dog-powered sports, and dog-powered sports done safely.
Related:Mountain Boarding With Dogs Part 2
What to do if you really want to go skateboarding with your dog? It’s time to start training. Here’s what you need to know:
Wait.
Dress properly. I prefer to use a well-fitted walking harness when I skateboard with my dogs. They aren’t pulling, so there’s no need to use a fully padded harness. I avoid a collar, because if I have to bail or unexpectedly yank, I don’t want to cause injury to my dog’s neck.
Your mom likely told you this already, but you need to get a proper skateboarding helmet. Think you’re too old to listen to your mother? Well, let’s put it this way. If you mash your brains taking a dive, who is going to take care of your dog?
Learning Curve
When I know the dog is ready to give me their undivided attention, then I am ready to add some slow movement. In the beginning, I keep skateboarding sessions short and sweet, and use lots of praise. We don’t aim for any speed. In time, we build up to longer sessions, and increase our speed gradually.
Stop.
Where to go?
Okay, you aspiring Tony Hawks – get out there and skate safely with your dogs!
