How to Ski with Your Dog in Colorado This Winter

Winter in Colorado is a magical time, and what better way to experience it than by sharing the slopes with your furry friend? Skiing with your dog can be a fantastic bonding experience, but it’s important to do it safely.

In this post, we’ll dive into the benefits of skiing with your dog, where you can go, how to ski with your dog, and essential safety tips to ensure a fun and memorable adventure for both of you.

2 dogs one with a jacket on a ski slope

Benefits of Skiing with Your Dog

Skiing with your dog offers a multitude of benefits for both you and your furry friend. It’s a fantastic way to burn off extra energy, strengthen your bond, and provide mental stimulation. Exploring new environments and engaging in physical activity can improve your dog’s overall health and fitness, making it a win-win for both of you.

Where Can You Ski with Your Dog in Colorado?

Colorado offers a variety of dog-friendly ski resorts where you and your furry friend can enjoy the winter wonderland together. Here are a few popular options:

  • Eldora Mountain Resort: This resort offers designated dog-friendly trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The Nordic Center is a great place to start your adventure.
  • Aspen Snowmass: This world-class resort offers dog-friendly gondola rides on Aspen Mountain and Snowmass, allowing you to take in stunning mountain views with your furry companion. The Silver Queen Gondola on Aspen Mountain and the Elk Camp Gondola on Snowmass are both dog-friendly.
  • Telluride Ski Resort: Known for its dog-friendly atmosphere, Telluride allows dogs on the free gondola to Mountain Village, providing access to hiking trails and scenic views.
  • Winter Park Resort: While dogs aren’t allowed on the slopes, you can enjoy dog-friendly activities like hiking and snowshoeing on the extensive trail network around Winter Park. The Fraser Experimental Forest and Devil’s Thumb Ranch offer great opportunities for outdoor adventures with your dog.
  • Arapahoe Basin: This resort offers uphill access for dogs outside of operating hours, allowing you to explore the mountain together.
  • Breckenridge Nordic Center: This center offers a 1.2-kilometer cross-country ski trail, “New Nordic World,” that is dog-friendly.

Remember to check specific regulations and trail conditions before heading out.

Things to Consider

While skiing with your dog can be a rewarding experience, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and limitations. Dog-friendly skiing often involves cross-country skiing or backcountry skiing, which can be more challenging and dangerous than downhill skiing. It’s crucial to assess your dog’s fitness level, choose appropriate trails, and be sure your dog is properly trained, preferably, by a professional dog training program. Always prioritize safety and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

a skie with long hair skiing with her dog and a snowboarder with long hair with a chairlift in the background

Backcountry Safety Tips from a Search and Rescue Professional

As someone with many years of experience in search and rescue, BlackPaw owner Bernadette, has learned a lot about avalanche and backcountry safety. Here are some of her certified safety tips for backcountry skiing:

1. Always go with a friend
2. Tell someone else where they will be skiing
3. Check snow conditions with the Colorado Avalanche Info Center
4. Have a map of the area (these can be conveniently downloaded these days on apps like AllTrails)
5. Have an avalanche beacon for each dog and person
6. Have a probe pole and a collapsible shovel
7. Pack water for both dog and person and bring a collapsible bowl
8. Pack extra layers & a dog coat for times of inactivity

How to Ski with Your Dog

You’ll need to prepare before skiing with your dog. Here are a few beginner tips on how to ski with your dog:

Preparation:

  • Physical Conditioning: Ensure your dog is fit for winter activities.
  • Winter Gear: Equip your dog with a coat, booties, goggles, harness, and potentially a Fido Pro Airlift – just to be prepared for injuries or illnesses. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
  • Training: Basic obedience commands like “stay,” “come,” and “leave it” are essential.
  • Safety Awareness: Be aware of hazards like tree wells and avalanches, especially in backcountry settings.

Skiing Techniques:

  • Start Slow: Begin with short, easy outings to gradually acclimate your dog to the snow and cold.
  • Monitor Your Dog: Keep a close eye on your dog for signs of fatigue or distress.
  • Choose Appropriate Trails: Stick to well-groomed trails and avoid steep slopes or challenging terrain.
  • Leash Control: Follow the rules of the area you are skiing in, some are off-leash and some are on-leash. If required, keep your dog on a long leash when skiing, maintain leash control over your dogs, especially in crowded areas or near other skiers.
  • Hydration: Ensure your dog has plenty of water, especially in cold, dry conditions.
  • Clean Up After Your Dog: Be a responsible pet owner and clean up after your dog.
  • Wildlife Safety: Be wildlife aware and know what to do in potential situations. For example, if you run into a moose, keep your dog close and put as much distance between you and the moose as possible. Try and put rocks or trees in between you. Keep your dog from barking and growling and run away if need be. For Colorado bears, let yourself be known and be loud. Use the classic “Hey Bear” and don’t turn your back on them. You can listen to podcasts featuring wildlife biologists like “Tooth and Claw” or if podcasts aren’t your thing, read published works from animal biologists on how to react in these situations.

Breed-Specific Considerations:

High-Energy Breeds (e.g., Border Collies, Blue Heelers): These breeds may require more intense physical and mental stimulation. Consider activities like backcountry skiing, skijoring, or pulling a sled to channel their energy.

Lower-Energy Breeds (e.g., Golden Retrievers, Doodles): These breeds may be more suited for leisurely walks, snowshoeing, and slower cross-country skiing.

Dog Etiquette:

  • Respect Other Dog Owners: Keep your dog under control and avoid confrontations with other dogs.
  • Trail Etiquette: Stay on designated trails and avoid damaging the environment.
  • Safety First: Prioritize safety for both you and your dog, especially in backcountry settings.
  • Clean Up After Your Dog: Be a responsible pet owner and clean up after your dog.
large dog in orange jacket on ski slope with skier in background a pretty yellow pink sky

How a Professional Dog Trainer Can Help You Ski with Your Dog

A professional dog trainer can be a game-changer when it comes to preparing your furry friend for winter adventures. Here’s how BlackPaw’s Perfect Pooch Program can help:

Tailored Training for Outdoor Enthusiasts:

BlackPaw’s Perfect Pooch Program is designed for active dog owners who want their pets to be well-behaved companions on hikes, runs, outdoor adventures, and, most importantly, ski with your dog! The program focuses on:

  • Rock-Solid Recall: Ensures your dog will come back when called, even in the most distracting environments.
  • Leash Manners: Teaches your dog to walk calmly on a leash, preventing pulling and jumping.
  • Off-Leash Reliability: Develops the skills needed for safe off-leash adventures, such as staying close and responding to commands.
  • Socialization: Helps your dog interact peacefully with other dogs and people, reducing anxiety and reactivity.

Benefits of Professional Training for Winter Adventures:

  • Enhanced Safety: A well-trained dog is less likely to run into danger, such as chasing wildlife or wandering off-trail.
  • Stress Reduction: A calm and obedient dog is less likely to experience anxiety in new environments, making winter adventures more enjoyable for both of you.
  • Increased Confidence: A well-trained dog will be more confident and willing to explore new places.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing that your dog is well-behaved and under control will allow you to relax and enjoy your winter adventures.

By investing in professional dog training, you can create a lifetime of happy memories with your furry friend.

Have Confidence in Your Pup This Colorado Winter

By following these tips and seeking professional training, you can ensure that your dog is ready to tackle the winter wilderness with you. Remember, a well-trained, well-equipped dog is a happy dog.

So, go ahead, grab your gear, and hit the slopes with your furry friend. With a little preparation and training, you can create unforgettable memories together this winter. Contact BlackPaw today to schedule a consultation and learn how our expert trainers can help you achieve your goals.