Canicross is a sport that owners do in cooperation with their dog. Similar to cross-country, it can be practiced in dog parks as well as on mountain trails. It was with the founding of Canicross Québec in 2006 that it slowly began to become known… and its popularity continues to grow! This file aims to give you a better overview before you start racing. Quick navigation

The benefits of this sport

This is one of the best sports to help a dog burn off excess energy. It is also excellent for the runner's health!
Building muscle in your pet may help reduce the risk of joint diseases like dysplasia.
With training and a fast dog, it is possible to reach speeds of up to 25 km/h! The climbs are easier and the descents are simply insane. Thrill seekers will appreciate it.
Many people decide to run in groups, which allows them to bond and meet people with similar interests. Your relationship with your own pet will benefit too!

Canicross equipment

The basic equipment for canicross is made up of three accessories: a harness, a belt and an elastic rope. The harness, first of all, must be adapted to traction by being more resistant and more comfortable for the dog than standard models. The belt, for its part, connects your waist to the harness and leaves your hands free. It must be wide enough to support the lower back. Finally, the elastic rope (bungee cord) absorbs the "blows" that your dog could give when its speed is greater than yours. Don't forget the water bottle (for you as well as for your partner) and remember to invest in good shoes to avoid the risk of injury.

Which dogs can do canicross?

A few criteria will define a dog's eligibility to participate in such activities: Age: As we regularly mention, a young dog's physical effort must be limited so as not to harm the development of its joints. The "safe" age to start canicross is around 12 months, unless its growth is not yet complete. Morphology: The majority of canine specimens have an adequate morphology to practice this sport. Small dogs as well as larger ones, males as well as females, can participate. It is rather their interest in running that will come into play! Brachycephalic dogs, on the other hand, have a lower tolerance to exercise due to their breathing difficulties. Try to be careful or simply choose an activity that is less demanding for them. Physical fitness: Fido does not need to be an accomplished athlete to start running... on the other hand, you should not ask too much of him from the start! As a rule of thumb, start slowly and never increase the level of effort required by more than 10% per week, just to allow him to adapt. Consult a veterinarian beforehand if your pet suffers from heart, lung or joint problems.

Am I fit enough?

Short answer: Yes, you are fit enough!
Long answer: You can start with walking, alternate between running and walking, and then move on to running entirely. Canicross is a great fitness tool that also allows you to develop a great bond with your pet. There is one caveat: if you are the proud owner of a Siberian Husky and a few minutes of walking exhausts you, your dog may have too much energy to keep up with you right away. Some pre-conditioning may be necessary.

The competitions

Canicross Québec, a free network promoting this discipline, keeps a list of the main events that take place each year across the province. In 2014, more than ten events were listed, both winter and summer! The standard distance to be covered during competitions is 5 km, but there can also be shorter (1 km) and longer (10 km) formats depending on the event chosen. As with marathons, you don't have to be a professional to participate: the important thing is to have trained your dog well and to let competitors pass when they are faster.

Other frequently asked questions

• Is there an ideal season to practice this sport? Canicross is most interesting in the spring and fall! It is important to remember that dogs, unlike us, cannot regulate their body temperature through sweat. When it is too hot, some breeds may feel uncomfortable with the level of intense physical effort required.
• Is it better to run alone or with other owners? Generally, dogs love to run with their peers! Many owners get started in the sport by joining clubs. (e.g. Canisportifs in Greater Montreal, Foubraque in Quebec City, etc.)
• Should I train my dog ​​before starting canicross? It is important that your partner knows some basic commands: left, right, slow down, faster…

Credit: Lebarnard