Here we address some frequesntly asked questions and concerns from people who are wanting to take part in canicross for the first time. If anything here has not been covered and you would like more information, please don't hesitate to send us a message!
Aside from a good pair of trainers (either road running or trail depending on the route), you’ll need to grab yourself a belt. a harness for your dog and a bungee lead. We recommend buying a harness specifically designed for canicross that your dog finds comfortable and runs well in.
If you don’t already have a harness in mind, we can help advise you on which will be best suited to your dog’s shape and running style.
For beginners, we recommend visiting the DogFit website where you can buy yourself a full canicross starter kit, which includes a free kit bag. The DogFit starter kit comes with a belt, harness and bungee line, and includes a short-back harness that is ideal for dogs new to canicross.
Some dogs that are new to canicross take a little while to get used to pulling in their harness. A lot of the time, when your dog is in a class with others or in a one-to-one where they get to chase Toby or other dogs in the class along the track, they often settle into pulling very easily.
Your dog needs to be fully mature before they begin their canicross journey, which is typically 12 months for smaller dogs and 18 months for larger breeds.
You can however begin teaching your dogs directional cues before they begin their canicross adventures! If you’d like advice on how to do this or to ask about when to start, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
As long as your dog is fit, healthy and willing, they can absolutely take part in canicross, whether you have a Jack Russell or a Dalmatian!
There’s no need to worry! We understand that everyone is different and has varying levels of ability. We hold different classes for different levels, and always run at the pace of the slowest runner so nobody gets left behind.
Classes are about having fun, and nobody is ever too slow!
Distances vary depending on yours and your dog’s ability and whether you’re a complete beginner or already have some experience. Beginner classes incorporate walking and jogging to begin with to build up an initial fitness level, whereas more experienced runners will run for the majority of the class.
Canicross belts are designed so the pulling force is felt in your hips, with the bungee line taking the majority of the force. As long as you have the right set up, it is highly unlikely your dog will pull you over, even with particularly strong pulling dogs.
Like any outdoor activity, there is a risk of falling over on a trail but you can reduce the likelihood of this by looking out in front of you and making sure you accomodate for any obstacles in your path. Teaching your dog directional cues as well as a command to go, slow down and stop also helps you control your balance and speed.
Yes, you can! Depending on how severe your dog’s nervousness or reactivity is, we may recommend a one-to-one session over a group class.
Even if you decide you prefer canitrekking over canicross, the design of the equipment means the dog is attached to you at all times, making it a safe and controlled environment. Canicross can help build the confidence of a nervous dog, and through teaching your dog to move forward and work at a job they’re doing, canicross can be very beneficial to dogs who struggle with social environments.
If your dog is severely reactive, we do recommend a vet visit first to rule out any pain first. We also offer specialised reactivity training as part of Welsh Underdogs, and can help you address this first if you would prefer.
If there’s anything we haven’t covered, please don’t hesitate to contact us through the contact form on the website or via our live chat. Alternatively, you can contact us by:
Tel: 07389133853
Email: welshunderdogs@outlook.com
Talk to us about getting started with canicross, and find out what equipment is best for you and your dog!