Welcome to the exhilarating world of Canicross!
Get ready to join in the perfect blend of human walking or running and canine companionship.
Canicross, derived from the words "canine" and "cross-country," is a thrilling sport that brings together passionate individuals and their four-legged friends for an unforgettable adventure. In this unique event, participants and their dogs form an inseparable team, working together to conquer the fully marked and exciting route while connected by a specialised waist belt and bungee leash or strong non-extentable lead.
Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a first-time participant, Canicross offers an exceptional opportunity to bond with your furry companion while pushing your limits and enjoying the great outdoors. So, leash up, lace up your shoes, and join us in celebrating the extraordinary connection between humans and dogs in this incredible Canicross event!
Get ready to join in the perfect blend of human walking or running and canine companionship.
Canicross, derived from the words "canine" and "cross-country," is a thrilling sport that brings together passionate individuals and their four-legged friends for an unforgettable adventure. In this unique event, participants and their dogs form an inseparable team, working together to conquer the fully marked and exciting route while connected by a specialised waist belt and bungee leash or strong non-extentable lead.
Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a first-time participant, Canicross offers an exceptional opportunity to bond with your furry companion while pushing your limits and enjoying the great outdoors. So, leash up, lace up your shoes, and join us in celebrating the extraordinary connection between humans and dogs in this incredible Canicross event!
Is CANI-CROSS for you?
Embarking on canicross, a sport involving running with your dog, requires consideration for an enjoyable experience. Key considerations include the health and fitness of both you and your dog. Puppies or dogs under one year old should not participate due to their developing bones and muscles. Gradual training is advised to build strength and adapt to various terrains.
Be alert for signs of overheating in your dog, such as excessive panting and red gums. Immediate cooling and vet attention are crucial in such cases.
Canicross equipment ideally requires includes a harness, waist belt, and line. However a good strong, non-extendable lead is also acceptable. Choose a harness that allows comfortable pulling without straining your dog's neck. Harnesses vary in design, catering to different dog breeds and running styles. The waist belt connects you to your dog and should be comfortable, with options for carrying essentials. The line, with a built-in bungee section, links the harness to the belt, providing flexibility and reducing strain. Experiment with different equipment types to find the best fit for you and your dog. Canicross is an evolving sport, with increasing gear options every year!
Be alert for signs of overheating in your dog, such as excessive panting and red gums. Immediate cooling and vet attention are crucial in such cases.
Canicross equipment ideally requires includes a harness, waist belt, and line. However a good strong, non-extendable lead is also acceptable. Choose a harness that allows comfortable pulling without straining your dog's neck. Harnesses vary in design, catering to different dog breeds and running styles. The waist belt connects you to your dog and should be comfortable, with options for carrying essentials. The line, with a built-in bungee section, links the harness to the belt, providing flexibility and reducing strain. Experiment with different equipment types to find the best fit for you and your dog. Canicross is an evolving sport, with increasing gear options every year!
Handy FAQ's
What is Canicross? Canicross is a sport where a person runs with their dog. The dog is attached to the runner's waist with a harness and a bungee cord, or strong non-extendable lead.
Who can participate in a Canicross event? Anyone with a dog that is fit, healthy, and enjoys running. There are usually categories for different age groups and skill levels. Age limits apply: 2k humans need to be over 7 on the day, 5k humans need to be over 10 on the day, 10k humans need to be over 14 on the day. All under 18 years must be accompanied to the event with an appropriate parent/guardian.
What equipment is needed for Canicross? Participants need a suitable harness for their dog, a waist belt for themselves, and a bungee cord or line to connect them, or strong non-extendable lead. Trail running shoes are recommended for the runner.
Are there any breed restrictions for the dogs? No specific breed restrictions, but the dog should be physically capable of running the distance and be in good health.
How long are the Canicross races? Distances available are 2km, 5km and 10km.
Is there any training required before participating? Basic training for your dog to run alongside you is recommended. Both the runner and the dog should be accustomed to the distances involved in the event.
Can children participate? Yes, with adult supervision if under 18 on the day!
Are there water stations along the course? Water is available to both dogs and humans along the 5k & 10k route. Water is avaiable at the end of all distances for both dogs and humans.
What if my dog gets tired or doesn't want to run? Your dog's welfare is paramount. If your dog is tired or unwilling to run, you should stop and not force them to continue.
Can we walk? YES, all distances are open to walkers as well as runners.
Can I run with more than 1 dog? NO. The limit is one dog per paying human.
Who can participate in a Canicross event? Anyone with a dog that is fit, healthy, and enjoys running. There are usually categories for different age groups and skill levels. Age limits apply: 2k humans need to be over 7 on the day, 5k humans need to be over 10 on the day, 10k humans need to be over 14 on the day. All under 18 years must be accompanied to the event with an appropriate parent/guardian.
What equipment is needed for Canicross? Participants need a suitable harness for their dog, a waist belt for themselves, and a bungee cord or line to connect them, or strong non-extendable lead. Trail running shoes are recommended for the runner.
Are there any breed restrictions for the dogs? No specific breed restrictions, but the dog should be physically capable of running the distance and be in good health.
How long are the Canicross races? Distances available are 2km, 5km and 10km.
Is there any training required before participating? Basic training for your dog to run alongside you is recommended. Both the runner and the dog should be accustomed to the distances involved in the event.
Can children participate? Yes, with adult supervision if under 18 on the day!
Are there water stations along the course? Water is available to both dogs and humans along the 5k & 10k route. Water is avaiable at the end of all distances for both dogs and humans.
What if my dog gets tired or doesn't want to run? Your dog's welfare is paramount. If your dog is tired or unwilling to run, you should stop and not force them to continue.
Can we walk? YES, all distances are open to walkers as well as runners.
Can I run with more than 1 dog? NO. The limit is one dog per paying human.
