Skijoring A Featured Event At City Of Lakes Loppet

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- This weekend the City of Lakes Loppet returns to Minneapolis, and once again dogs will be among those taking part.

You may remember Skijoring. It's a mix of cross country skiing and dog sled racing.  But for this race, the dogs pull the skiers.

Skijoring requires specific equipment for dogs, mainly a harness that allows the skiers to be pulled. The skier must also have a specific safety belt they wear around their waste and it should have a quick release in the event of any tangles or falls.

For beginners, you might want to consider a jacket for your dog if they are not used to being out in the cold for long periods of time. You definitely will also want musher's wax, which goes on your dog's paws to keep them safe while they're pulling you. It prevents snowballs from forming in their toes, which could get their feet cold.

The City of Lakes Loppet is this weekend in Minneapolis. You can check out the Skijoring and other events, starting at Theodore Wirth Park.