If you have a small dog and have searched for information on skijoring or bikejoring, you may have heard people claim that dogs must be 30lbs to participate in these sports. That’s not true! According to the instructors and long-term competitors I’ve spoken with, small dogs can safely enjoy any dog-powered sport where the human can provide part of the “power”—which is what Lottie and I do!
Lottie and I began with canicross and then quickly picked up skijoring and bikejoring as well. We’ve competed in two dryland races and multiple 5ks with canicross, and are active participants in North American Canicross’ online titling program. She absolutely loves it!
If you’d like to start your small dog in dog-powered sports, the first hurdle is finding appropriate and safe gear that fits small dogs. When getting Lottie started I did a considerable amount of research into both off-the-rack and custom options for pulling harnesses available for dogs under 30lb. Scroll on to learn what I found!
What style of harness should I get?
Harnesses for pulling come in multiple different styles, all of which can be viable options depending on your dog and planned use. The biggest difference is between full-length and half-back harnesses. Many small dog owners are directed toward half-back harnesses because they tend to run in smaller sizes, but these are not the only option!
The traditional full-length harness, or x-back is most popular. Many variations also exist.
- Allows dog to use full “power”
- Distributes force more evenly
- Can be difficult to fit
- Requires dogs to tolerate more handling getting dressed
Half-back harnesses do not provide as much “power” but can be more comfortable for some dogs.
- Easier to fit
- Can be more comfortable (for gear-shy dogs or dogs who do not like harnesses on their backs)
- Can be used for multiple activities
Whichever style you choose, the most important thing is that the harness fits! Erin Lynes, a dog-powered sports instructor and competitor, has put together an excellent guide on what to look for if you do not have a local group to help you get started.
Now onto the harnesses!
Off-the-rack options
- Sizes 1-3 may fit small dogs
- For beginners or lighter pullers
Non-stop’s newest harness is easier to put on due to side buckles, but this means it’s not as suitable for dogs who pull strongly. A great choice for small dogs who pull inconsistently!
Non-stop dogwear freemotion harness
- Sizes 1-3 may fit small dogs
- Often fits deeper-chested dogs
The classic freemotion is a popular 3/4 length harness for non-traditional breeds. Unfortunately, the new 5.0 model is not sold in sizes 1-2, but the old model remains an accessible option.
- Especially made for small dogs
- Open-back design is lightweight & comfy
Intended for small dogs, this harness comes in multiple sizes to fit a variety of dogs under 25kg/50lb. The smallest sizes use a thinner (but still strong!) webbing.
- Smallest sizes may fit small dogs
- Unique and stable open-back design
Somewhat difficult to find in the US, this harness is another more open-back style that could fit smaller dogs.
- Smallest sizes fit small dogs
- A short harness with wide shoulder clearance
More popular outside the US, this short harness comes in a wide variety of sizes and colors, making it easier to fit without having to go custom.
Non-stop dogwear line 5.0 harness
- Sizes 0-3 may fit small dogs
- A versatile option for lighter pullers
Although not suitable for hard-pulling dogs, this harness is a versatile option for small dogs who pull lightly.
- XXXS and XXS fit smaller dogs
- A mid-length harness with an open-back design
A brightly colored, easy to put on harness for small dogs! This would be perfect for dogs who benefit from more pulling strength, but do not enjoy the line/harness resting on their back.
Disclaimer: axaeco sent me this harness for free to test. It fits Tilney and Charlie, but not Lottie.
Manmat lightweight harness – MINI
- One size meant for smaller terriers.
- A rare offering in a traditional x-back design.
I have not had the chance to see this harness in person, as shipping to the US is cost-prohibitive. Could be a great option for hard-pulling small dogs though, and I’d love to try it out someday!
Custom choices
Many different companies make custom harnesses for dog-powered sports. Be aware, however, that not all keep materials in stock suitable for smaller dogs, and that many are small operations. This means you’re unlikely to get a custom harness quickly!
Note: I have not ordered from these makers personally. Investigate whoever you go with! I strongly recommend finding someone willing to use at maximum 3/4″ webbing for any dog under 15lb.
- CTC Dog Gear shoulder harness – Pricier, but have successfully fit toy breeds, stocks 3/4″ webbing.
- Nordkyn Outfitters, multiple styles – Have fit toy breeds, as of 2022 stocked smaller webbing widths
- Alpine Outfitters, multiple styles – Stocks 3/4″ webbing.
- And many more!
What do my dogs use?
Lottie wears the inlandsis open-back, size XXXS. Yes, she’s that tiny! The open-back style and narrow webbing keep Lottie comfortable even though she is sensitive to gear. Meanwhile, the full-length style and durable build allows her to use her full strength.
Tilney uses the non-stop dogwear freemotion, size 2. This sturdy harness stays put without sliding if he lets the line go slack, but it also allows him to pull strongly and safely when he wants. As a deep-chested and narrowly-built dog, the harness fits him well.
As you can see, having a small dog doesn’t mean you can’t find appropriate gear for sports like skijor, bikejor, and canicross!
Tils & Lottie 
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