Canicross is a sport where you run with your dog in the open terrain and where you can hang with your dog on a leash and harness for the dog. Canicross has started out as a sport for off-season sled and tow dogs, so the dog and owner can stay in shape until the season starts. Especially in England, this sport has become widespread, but is also slowly spreading to the rest of Europe.
Canicross can be done with one or two dogs, which are always attached to the runner. The runner wears a running belt around the waist, the dog has a specifically designed harness, and the two are joined by an elastic line that reduces drag / shock for both owner and dog as the dog pulls. Dogs and runners must appear as a unified team when growing canicross.
In the team, the owner is the leader who directs the dog from behind with voice commands. Canicross is not only a great way to get the owner and dog working together, but is also a great way to get the dog to use his brain during work.
Originally, canicross dogs of sled or pointed dogs were the type of husky or malamute, but now all breeds have started participating, including cross breeds, small terrier breeds for large breeds such as rottweilers and standard poodles. Canicross is not just for athletes, but for all people of all ages, including children and people with disabilities, such as the visually impaired. Some races are very suitable for not only running and dragging, but running at an even pace over a long distance. We encourage all people and their dogs to participate in outdoor activities and meet other like-minded people through growing canicross.
Can I run canicross?
Everyone can grow canicross. It can range from those who often run to those who do not exercise as much. Running with your dog can be the biggest motivator to start participating in sports or exercising! Why only walk with the dog when you can also exercise with your best friend.
Canicross is like other sports that it requires one whose physique and therefore it is advised that if you have knee or back problems that you start out gently. Canicross running is off-road, so shoes with a good grip on the ground are a good choice for you, and it can be trail running shoes.
Can my dog participate in canicross?
As long as your dog is fit, healthy, of the right age and able to run, you can grow canicross with any dog. Working breeds tend to be the most popular breed for this sport. Always contact your veterinarian if you are unsure.
Dogs can run when they are 12-18 months old. You can start a little training with them a few months before to allow them to get used to being in a harness and teach them their commands and then gradually build this up. Always be careful not to work with the dogs when their joints and bones are still forming. For larger races, it is important to wait a little longer to build greater running distances. Again, always consult your veterinarian for advice.
The basic key factors for equipment are a good comfortable mounting harness suitable for running. A bungee leash and running belt for the runner.
Breeds.
In terms of breeds, the most popular in this sport are German short-haired pointers, English pointers, Belgian Malinois, Border Collies, Beaucerons and mixes such as dogs (Alaskan Husky mixed with a pointer type dog), Alaskan Huskies (Siberian Husky mix), and Greysters (Greyhound mixed with a pointer type dog).
But all types of dogs of all sizes can participate in canicross as long as you respect the limit of your dog! Unless your dog has some serious known health issues, it is a fairly safe sport that will not harm your dog.
Smaller dog breeds, of course, will not be as fast as larger dogs, but that does not mean that they are not good for canicross. In fact, there are several smaller dogs that have achieved good results in canicross races.
Old dogs can run, but you can't expect them to be as fast as younger dogs. It is also important to consider older dogs' need for exercise in this type of sport.
It has been popular to use a mixed dog. Over the last five to ten years, dogs have been specifically bred to breed. Nevertheless, at a competition, you will also see people running with their own family dog and enjoying the competition just as much as anyone else. There are people starting with their Chihuahuas, Maltesers, Whippets ... and many other breeds. There are many opportunities to get out and about running with your dog, and then the right equipment is a great pleasure when you and your dog are out running.
What equipment do I need?
For canicross, you need a good fitted dog harness designed to pull, such as non-stop dog harness or "Freemotion harness". It is specially designed for high-tensile sports.
You and your dog run like a team connected to a bungee leash. The leash is made of elastic material that absorbs sudden pulling from your dog and makes the training more comfortable for both you and your dog.
A good running belt is important. It should subtract from around the pelvic area.
For the runner, a couple of good running shoes for trail running are recommended as you will have a good hold when running off road, such as in the woods, along the beach or in field areas. Trail running shoes and regular running shoes differ mainly on four points: grip on the ground, shock absorption, support and foot protection. We recommend you to contact your preferred running center for trail shoe selection.
What distances are you running at competitions?
This may vary depending on the country you are in and which class you start in. It is not unusual to have a shorter distance to children (escorted by an adult), approximately 1-1.5 kilometers. Children over 10 years often have the chance to run as juniors without the help of an adult. Juniors and adults can run a short distance (2-3 kilometers) or a long distance (4-8 kilometers).
Most races are held with a single start every 15-30. Second. Double take-off or smaller waves can occur in large competitions with many participants. Mass onset occurs but is not common. If there is a mass start, this is announced by the organizers well in advance of the event.
How do I train my dogs directions?
Some canicross runners use mushers terms to help drive their dog, but it is up to you what commands you want to use for your dog just as long as your dog understands and you are consistent with what you say , and how to say it.
Here are English examples of commands:
"Go Gee" - Go right
"Go Haw" - Go left
“Forward” - Forward
"On by" - Ignore and move on
“Hike on” - Use more traction to keep going
“Lets go” - Set up the speed or start
“Steady” - Slow down
“Stand / line out” - Stand still with your head forward
These are just examples of commands. When training your dog commands, repeat as they go in the direction and praise the dog thereafter, much like how you learn basic obedience, lots of praise when the dog is on the right track. Avoid using treats, as it is important that the dog focuses on the lane ahead and therefore should not return to you. The purpose is for the dog to turn forward and just use their ears to take the commands without turning their heads.
Use your own body to control speed. If you want more speed, lean forward and run at a faster pace, and then your dog should be able to receive this and do the same. If you want to slow down, try using your body weight to lean back into your belt and extend your stride to help slow the pace without grabbing the line.
When your training with your dog is done, give them a bowl of fresh water, a little treat, remove the dog's harness and lots of praise "good work". It is important that the dog knows that they have done well after each training session. The more positive you are for the dog's efforts, the more it will work for you.
Now you have the basic methods to get started and all you have to do is get out and run and enjoy getting in shape with your dog.
How to find a canicross running competition in my area?
There are several pages where you can get more knowledge about canicross races and we have made a few links below that you can try with:
For example, you can join the Facebook group Canicross Denmark:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1398610413545156
You can also visit the Danish Petting Dog Club:
https://www.sleddogs.dk/
There are certainly other sites where you can get more information about running competitions.
Hints
Water
Remember to bring water on the trip if you are going to run longer trips. Dogs do not sweat through the skin, as we humans do, but get rid of the heat by breathing rapidly and releasing heat and water through the tongue and pads, among other things. It is important that you help your dog to cool down and rehydrate.
Feeding
Do not feed your dog before the run. It should take at least a couple of hours after the dog has eaten a larger meal and for it to go on a run.
Take care of the paws
Asphalt is hard for dog paws. Therefore, be aware that you vary the surface and slowly accustom the dog's paws to the hard wear of asphalt. Asphalt can get very hot on a hot summer day, and can cause burns on the paws.
Come visit us at our store where you can get good advice and guidance on how to get started with canicross.