From what age can the dog run?
Don't do sustained running with a dog that's still growing. Wait for the growth plates to close: around 12 months in small breeds, up to 18 in big ones. Until then, free play only.
Speed and running
Canicross
You run, the dog pulls, and a bungee line clipped to a belt joins the two of you. It's the easiest way into the pulling sports, and the most practical one, because all you need is a forest.
About the discipline
What canicross is
Canicross is cross-country running for two. You wear a special belt, the dog wears a pulling harness, and a bungee line with a shock absorber runs between you.
The dog runs out front and pulls. You follow and tell it which way to go. Forget the idea of a walk on lead: this is a race, and the pull shows up on the clock.
It's a cold-weather sport. Most races are held in autumn and winter, because long, hard efforts in the heat are dangerous for dogs.
How it works in practice
What a canicross race looks like
- distances of 2 to 10 kilometres, depending on category
- individual or wave starts
- off-road courses: forest, fields, hills
- direction cues given by voice
- runner and dog stay hooked up the whole way
- vet checks at serious events
Which dogs it suits
- healthy dogs past 12 to 18 months, depending on size
- breeds that last well over distance
- runners who already train regularly
Flat-faced breeds aren't built for sustained effort. Nor are overweight dogs or dogs with joint problems.
What you need
- a canicross belt with a low attachment point
- a bungee line with shock absorber, 2 to 2.5 metres long
- a pulling harness that fits the dog's body properly
- water and a collapsible bowl
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about Canicross
What temperature is safe?
The colder the better. Above 15 to 18 degrees the effort gets risky, and races are called off when it's hot. Dogs don't sweat the way we do and they overheat fast.
Can I use an ordinary collar?
No, never. Pulling against the neck can damage the windpipe. A pulling harness and a bungee line spread the force safely across the body.
The rule figures on this page come from IFSS - International Federation of Sleddog Sports. Rules change and federations differ - always check the rulebook of the competition you are entering.
From the same category
Related sports
Bikejoring
The dog runs ahead of the bike and pulls it.
Scooterjoring
The dog pulls a purpose-built off-road scooter.
Skijoring
Cross-country skiing with one or more dogs pulling you.
Sled Dog Racing
Racing dog teams over snow.
We do not run Canicross
This page is informational. We work in mantrailing, search and rescue and preparation for the TSAC and BH exams - but if you want an honest opinion on what would suit your dog, write to us anytime.