WHAT IS CANICROSS?

Canicross is line running with a dog. Running with your dog is one of the most fantastic ways to exercise - both for you who want to start running for the first time and for you who are an experienced runner. Jogging and running with a dog is a fun way to both socialize and cardio together. All kinds of dogs can participate, regardless of breed and size. So whether you have a small dog, like a poodle or a big dog, like a vorsteh, you can run with the dog.

HOW DO YOU START TRAINING?

Just like with ourselves, we want to make sure to step up the training gradually. My best tip is to dare to start calmly and then increase more and more both in terms of speed and distance. Feel free to alternate between running and walking - interval form - both for yourself and for the dog.

Another good thing is to decide if you want the dog to be in "pull position" or if you want to teach it to run by your side - or why not both! Being able to rotate is really valuable.

KEEP AN EYE ON

There are some important things to keep in mind when running with the dog. Keep an eye on:

• on the paws! Start by getting to know your dog's paws to see any changes after training. No paws - no race - no win.
• the heat! Cold is rarely a problem for dogs, however, the heat can be devastating and you do not want an overheated dog. Avoid running on hot days - then choose to run in the early mornings or late evenings / nights.

WHICH EQUIPMENT IS NEEDED?

Whether you want your dog to run ahead in traction or by your side, you want a waist belt. You also absolutely want a waist belt with leg straps to keep the belt in place - ie on the hip. If the belt ends up around the waist, it can wear unnecessarily on your back. You choose the belt according to the pace and what you want to get out of the training. The wider belts I experience best for "running" and when you want to be able to alternate having the dog on the side while the lighter belt is unbeatable when it comes to running fast with the dog in front of you! Even with a really strong and heavy dog, the feeling is simple!

If you work with pulls, you absolutely want a harness intended for just pulls and which you try out for your dog. Check measurements and ask for help to find the harness that suits you best. You also want a leash that has an expander in it, ie gives in when the dog pulls. This makes it comfortable for both you and your dog. The length of the leash if you want to compete in leash running with a dog should be between 1.5m to 2m in an extended position - if you want to cycle (what is called biking) or ski (ski) behind your dog, choose a longer leash.

Now just go out and have fun! It is absolutely magical to run with your dog - the world's best friend and coach who with twinkling eyes says: one more lap! Whatever the weather!


Author: Eva Marie Wergård.
She is behind the instagram account Run with your dog which arranges various dog races. She is also a mental coach and has written the book "Mental training for agility performer"