Get Started With Canicross

Get Started With Canicross

Originally developed for off-season dog sledding practice, canicross is a form of cross-country running with your dog. Canicross has become increasingly popular in the UK over the last few years, offering a fun, healthy way for you and your dog to exercise together.

 

This sport is dog-powered - with the dog running ahead of the owner, the owner gives verbal cues and guides their dog.

 

As long as you and your best friend are fit and healthy, and you have the appropriate equipment, you are ready to begin!

 

 

What Do I Need?

You only need 3 pieces of kit to get started with canicross - a suitable pulling harness, a bungee line and a running belt!

 

 

A Pulling Harness - A suitable canicross harness should have an ergonomic fit for maximum comfort. It should have a Y-shaped neck opening, with the chest piece sat at the sternum, and chest/neck pieces clear of the windpipe.

 

For strong pullers, the attachment point for your lead should sit near the very base of the tail, as opposed to the middle of the back. Having the attachment positioned above the base of the tail helps to alleviate strain on your dogs back. By far, the most popular canicross harness is the Freemotion Harness 5.0. 

 

For moderate pullers, harnesses such as the Rock Harness Long or Line Harness 5.0 are alternative options. 

 

The final choice is down to personal preference, and the needs of your dog. An appropriate harness is essential for canicross, as an uncomfortable or restrictive harness can cause injury, or teach your dog to pull incorrectly.

 

Some harness examples can be found just below:

 

 

 

 

A Bungee Line - The line used to connect you and your dog should be a bungee line - this helps absorb any sudden jolts, and alleviate pressure on you and your dog's backs.

 

A 2 metre line is the recommended length for competitive use, as this allows for a suitable distance between you and your dog, while also allowing you to spot hazards in front of you. Ideally, the entire length will be made up of bungee. If using casually, then personal preference often comes into play.

 


 

 

A Canicross Belt - A belt helps keep your hands free while running, and a suitable canicross belt helps evenly distribute the dog's pulling force on your body.

 

These belts sit low on the body, typically around the hips, helping to avoid any strain on the back. You will find dedicated canicross belts have leg loops to help keep the belt secure and in its desired position during use.

  • CaniX Belt 2.0 by Non-stop dogwear - includes more padding, a pocket for a phone or other small items, and a detachable front piece on which the gliding carabiner is attached.
  • CaniX Belt Pro by Non-stop dogwear - a lighter alternative, stripped of all unnecessary features and made specifically for competition use.


 

 

Is Canicross Suitable For My Dog?

Canicross can be suitable and a fun, healthy activity for a range of breeds, sizes and shapes. However, your dog should be fully grown (about 1-2 years old, depending on breed) before starting with canicross, to prevent any potential strain on a younger dog's body. 

 

Do consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.


Any questions? Reach out to us via email bark@mountaindog.uk or via telephone 01670 343010.

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