Running with your dog: canicrossing

Do you ever see someone running with a dog? That could very well be the case, because canitrailing (and also canicross) is becoming increasingly popular in the Netherlands. Especially now that we have to go out alone as much as possible, it is extra fun to go out with your canine friend. But just as you have to build up carefully and quietly as a novice runner, your dog also has to start with the basics.

By Meike Kuipers

Getting started with canicrossing: running with your dog

Canicross and canitrailing are different: in canicross, speed is an important factor, in canitrailing it is more about endurance. This article gives tips on how to start canitrailing, running with your dog. First of all, it is important that you have a healthy and fit dog. Your dog must be fully grown, so do not run with a dog younger than one year. Depending on the breed, it is sometimes better to wait until the dog is two years old, such as with the Great Dane. This breed grows more slowly and needs more time to build up sufficient strength. 

If your dog is fit, healthy and old enough, the next step is proper equipment. Your dog will not be on a collar, but in a dog harness. The basic equipment consists of:

1. A well-fitting dog harness or harness. This has a Y-shape at the front and is made of flexible material.
2. An elastic line to connect you to your dog. This is the pull line and with this you ensure that the cooperation between you both goes well, you can maintain a good walking technique and your dog can 'pull' you along with the whole body via the harness. 
3. A hip belt for you. As a runner, you wear a hip belt that is attached to your legs and buttocks. There are also hip belts available that are worn around the waist, but a belt that takes the force from the pelvis reduces the risk of back injuries. Your back is a lot more vulnerable than the pelvis.
4. A good one trail running shoe is not an unnecessary luxury. This gives you as a runner good grip on unpaved paths.

The first kilometers

✔️ Your dog healthy and fit?

✔️ Is your equipment in order?

Then you can start canicrossing! 

Just as you do a warm-up as a runner, it is also wise to let your pet warm up when you go running with your dog. And just as you do not want to eat a large meal before your training, the same applies to your dog. It is better to feed after the training, or in smaller portions. The intention is that your dog walks in front of you and pulls you forward, so it is also a real workout for your dog! Start by walking, preferably on a 'normal' leash, so that the needs are done. Then put the harness on your dog: this is also a clear starting point of the training for the dog. Then do a number of exercises such as slaloming, turning circles, trotting quietly and changing pace. This makes the dog's body nice and loose and supple. Then you can start running: not too far at first and possibly with walking breaks. Get used to the harness, to each other and to the different way of walking.

You guys are a team

Canicrossing is teamwork. Make sure there is clear communication to make the cooperation as strong as possible. Be the leader, even though the dog pulls you forward. Clear commands help with this, you can see from your dog's ears that he is busy with you and actively listening. The most used commands for running with your dog are:

• GO: This command is often used at the start of a training or competition, as a kind of starting shot. 
• FOR/BY: This indicates that your dog should walk ahead of you, or if he is not paying attention, you can use it to ask for his attention back.
• LEFT/RIGHT: Use these commands to indicate the direction at an exit or junction. 
• CALM/STOP: Your dog can be very enthusiastic or triggered by something happening in the environment, especially at the beginning of a competition or training. But also think about descending or climbing, where you should not start too fast. 

The best period

Pay attention to the (summer) weather! A dog can get too hot quickly and that is why it is not recommended to canitrail with your dog in the summer. Even very early or late in the evening, the humidity can be a huge hindrance to your dog. With a temperature of up to 15 or sometimes 18 degrees, you could take a short walk around the block early in the morning. Be alert to your dog's body language. If you see that he wants to cool his belly or drink a lot, he may already be too hot. 

It is recommended to take a summer break between June and September. In the other months, the temperature and humidity are much more manageable for the dog. Be careful with slippery conditions! 

Enjoy canicrossing

The foundation has been laid, you can start training and building up, perhaps even participate in a canicross or canitrail in your area (when it is allowed again). Always take water with you and of course a tasty treat to reward your dog with after the hard work. After training, it is wonderful to take off the harness and walk on the leash or loose (if the area allows it). Build up slowly and above all enjoy the adventures that you will experience together with your new running buddy while running with your dog!