Working Dog Health – Or, Why My Dog’s Physio Bill Is Higher Than Mine
Having a “working dog” sounds incredibly noble, doesn’t it? Like they’re out there, solving crimes, heroically rescuing people from treacherous mountain passes, or perhaps delicately sniffing out artisanal cheeses and vintage wines that are just past their sell-by date. In reality, my “working dog” is primarily engaged in the strenuous activity of demanding attention with laser-like focus, shredding seemingly indestructible toys into confetti in under 3.7 seconds, and occasionally attempting to herd the cat (unsuccessfully, as the cat remains firmly in charge of the household hierarchy). Yet, somehow, the health regime for this furry fiend is more rigorous than a professional athlete’s, and certainly more rigorous than my own.
Canicross – It’s Not Just for Huskies Anymore (Thankfully)
Canicross is an energetic sport where dogs lead their humans while racing through challenging terrains. All breeds can join, revealing surprising athleticism in dogs like poodles and dachshunds. Participants equip their dogs with specialized gear, while they manage to keep up, often faced with humorous hurdles. It’s a joyful, muddy adventure for both!
Beginners Guide #5. – Teaching Lead Manners for Canicross Runners: (Mostly) Pulling on Cue!
Alright, you’ve dipped your toe in the canicross waters, and you’re loving that feeling of being effortlessly (well, mostly!) pulled along by your furry powerhouse. But here’s the thing: while we want them to pull in canicross, we also need them to do it in a controlled, consistent, and well-behaved manner. We’re not after a […]
Beginners Guide #4. – Trail Running & Canicross: Safety and Etiquette (Because We Share the Paths, Folks!)
Ah, the glorious British countryside! Rolling hills, ancient woodlands, muddy puddles… and you, tearing through it all, powered by your enthusiastic canine companion. Trail running with your dog, especially when engaging in the exhilarating sport of canicross, is pure bliss. It’s fresh air, stunning views, and that incredible bond. But hold your horses (and your […]
Beginners Guide #3. – Pacing Perfect: How to Match Your Dog’s Canicross Speed (They’re the Engine, You’re the Steering Wheel!)
You’ve got the kit, you’re hitting the trails, and your dog is, well, pulling. But are you truly running in harmony? One of the biggest ‘aha!’ moments in canicross comes when you realise you’re not just running with a dog; you’re running behind a dog, and they’re the ones setting the pace. Trying to force […]
Beginners Guide #2. – Building Endurance: Canicross Training Plans (No Longer Just a Jaunt!)
Alright, so you and your four-legged speed demon have nailed those shorter canicross outings. You’re thinking, “This is brilliant! What if we went… further?” Welcome to the next level: endurance training! Imagine covering more ground, exploring new trails, and feeling that incredible, sustained pull. Extending your distances, from a comfortable 5K to a glorious 10K […]
Beginners Guide #1. – Getting Started: Your First Canicross Steps (Without Face-planting!)
So, you’ve seen those magnificent dog-and-human teams flying through the woods, looking utterly majestic (and possibly a bit mad). You’re thinking, “My pooch has energy to burn, and so do I… mostly!” Welcome to the wonderfully wild world of canicross! It’s like regular running, but with built-in doggy propulsion. And yes, it’s as brilliant as […]
Beginners Guide #0. – Calling All Dog Lovers! Ready to Unleash Your Inner Trail Blazers? Welcome to Our 5-Week Canicross Adventure!
Canicross is an engaging sport allowing dogs and their owners to bond while exercising in the great outdoors. This five-week beginner’s guide provides essential steps for safely starting canicross, including training plans, pacing, safety tips, and teaching good lead manners. It promises an exciting, rewarding adventure for energetic dogs and their companions.