Canicross: running safely with your dog

To do canicross with your dog, you must make sure that they are in perfect physical condition. Even if they look fine, we advise you to take them to the vet to check if they are ready for an intense running activity. Only a professional can guarantee that your dog can run with you safely, so it's worth not skipping this first step.

Once you have all the equipment you need for canicross, you may be itching to get out running with your dog as soon as possible. But don't rush it. First of all, make an honest assessment of your fitness level. For this type of running where your dog pulls you along, you not only need to be an experienced runner, but you also need to have upper body strength. Add to that good endurance and pace so that you don't weigh your dog down too much. Are you ready? In that case, it's time to think about your dog. Just as a person can't run 10 km the first time, neither can your pet. Start with short, easy runs and, if your dog responds well, increase the length of the route. Keep in mind that canicross is a very intense exercise for your dog and his body has to get used to the sport little by little.

Puppies should not do canicross, as their joints and muscles are still developing and could suffer problems with the impact of the footsteps in a high-intensity exercise such as this. Canicross is recommended from one and a half years of age and as long as the animal is in good physical and psychological condition. Of course, this sport is not recommended for senior dogs either, as their joints, which may have deteriorated with age, could be affected. If you have a puppy, wait until they are a year and a half old, check that they are ready to run with you with a vet and start to get them used to running progressively (first going out alone for a jog, then running short distances and gradually increasing the difficulty). This way you can enjoy this healthy pastime together safely and calmly.

Dogs regulate their body temperature much worse than us humans. That's why it's vital that you don't take your dog out running with you if the temperature exceeds 20°C, the limit set by official canicross competitions. These animals can only perspire to thermoregulate through their pads, so they often pant as an alternative way to cool down. However, if you notice your dog is too agitated and the temperature is close to or higher than the indicated temperature, it's best to leave it for another day. Of course, don't forget to bring water and a water bowl with you when you go running, but wait at least 15 minutes before giving your dog a drink. If your pet drinks too anxiously, they could suffer from stomach torsion, which is a very serious acute condition in dogs. Also, don't go for a run with your dog if they have recently eaten - wait a couple of hours to be on the safe side.

If you want to run freely and without worrying about anything, leave your pet at home. Canicross requires you to keep an eye on your furry companion to adjust the pace to their needs. If you notice that your dog is breathing too fast or shows signs of choking, stop the activity, wait for them to calm down for about 15 minutes and give them water (a few sips first so that they don't gulp it all at once). Never force your dog to continue running if they get tired or stop due to exhaustion, or force them to go through places that they are afraid of or that are too difficult for their level. Although canicross is based on the animal pulling slightly on their owner during the run, you can adapt the exercise without your dog having to take on some of the weight and simply go for a run together.

If you want your dog to pull you when you do canicross, you can teach them by learning a signal. The first few times you can do this by asking someone else to stand right in front of them to encourage them. Do this until they get used to it and remember to reinforce positively when they do well. Keep in mind that ‘pulling’ behaviour is not positive during day-to-day walks, so you'll need to be very clear about the timing of canicross so that your dog doesn't get confused. Create routines and ‘rituals’ that help your pet understand that it is time for canicross and get them to connect with the pulling mode. In this ‘sled’ mode, watch out for slopes, as a dog with a large stride can accelerate your speed up to 4km/h.

Both before and after training we recommend that you check your dog's paws. Check their pads for nails and, after the run, gently wipe them with a damp cloth. If your dog has any cuts or cracked skin in this area, you can try a little Vaseline or consult your vet if you have any doubts.

If you are going to do canicross with your dog on a recurring basis, bear in mind that this will involve a very significant energy expenditure for them. Consult your vet's nutritionist about the best diet for your dog's needs. In some cases, he or she may recommend supplements of essential fatty acids and vitamins to ensure your pet is in excellent health at all times.