What is Canicross?
This sport is essentially Cross Country running with your canine, hence "Canicross"! This is a great sport and a very effective way to create a great bond between you and your dog. The sport is set up so that the dog is attached to its owner by the waist while walking or running. Your dog is attached to the you by means of a harness, a canicross belt that wraps around your waist, and a lead line.
The History of Canicross
The sport is best known in Europe and is now starting to pick some popularity in the United States. The date that this activity was officially named is uncertain due to the fact that people have performed it for years with their dogs as a leisure activity. The very first Canicross World Championships were held in 2002 at Ravenna, Italy.
Canicross as an Activity
This is such a great activity for high energy dogs and many sled dogs. Not only are you getting in that cardio but the dogs do some pulling as well. Talk about a good workout! I've run with Athena this way and it's pretty darn close to flying (that's at a full run which I don't recommend unless you have good communication skills with your dog - they need to stop when you need them to) but even at a jog your pooch pulling you along is exhilerating!
Always start out slow for several reasons.
1. Like any athletic activity both you and your dog need to build up training.
2. Just because you've been a runner all your life - if you haven't included Fido before doesn't mean that he is up to the physical task of a long run. Dog's can get out of shape too.
3. Training and communication. If your dog loves a good run but doesn't always like to stop on command be careful! If you get tired, loose your footing or trip it could end up being not only a nasty fall but your pup could accidently drag you.
4. Start on dirt paths without a lot of distraction. You should never really run on concrete but asfault can be very rough if you and your pooch are not use to it.
Breeds that rule the roost in this Sport
Malamute
Husky
German Shepherd
Akita
Labrador
Standard Poodle
Airedale Terrier
Doberman
Dalmation
Staffordshire Terrier
Cane Corso
Giant Schnauzer
Weimaraner
Equipment
The equipment for Canicross is the same as Skijoring
-Carabiners
-Musher's Belt (for the dog)
-Skijorer Belt without leg straps (for you)
-Skijorer towline
-Bottle holdler (YES, you want this for water breaks which you and the pup WILL need)
Participating in Canicross sport is really fun as you have time to bond with your buddy. I recommend to use Walkee Paws it helps on preventing them from picking up allergens, lawn chemicals and harmful pesticides.
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