How to get started in Canicross

Looking to run with your dog and need help getting started? Why not have a think about Canicross?

Canicross is basically cross-country running with one important difference – you're also hitched to a dog! Developed in the 1980s by French vet Gilles Pernoud, the sport involves connecting dog and master via a bungee line to run as a team over a set distance.

One of the fastest growing dog sports in the UK, Canicross is absolutely unique in that it's all about bonding with your dog. It's the perfect opportunity to share an activity with your dog and can be a great motivator for anyone who might otherwise be a bit reluctant to exercise.

Canicross is open to any active and healthy dog and you don't need any paperwork to get started, but your dog must be at least one year old.

It's worth mentioning at this point that not all dogs are suited to Canicross. The ideal dog for this sport is calm, focused and unfazed by anything that might come in their path including other dogs, humans, animals or obstacles. Of course, your dog must also be athletic and agile, and sporting breeds will usually do best.

Looking for more of an endurance sport? Cani-Trail is the sport for you! Similar in concept to Canicross, Cani-Trail takes place over distances of at least 10K.

Think you can probably get away with running with your usual dog collar and lead? The short answer is no.

Picking the right equipment to run with your dog is just as important for your dog as it is for you. Your equipment must be chosen with great care to limit the risk of injuries for both participants. For your dog, this means protecting their paws, joints and muscles; for you, this means protecting your back and arm. Collars are strictly forbidden in Canicross and the runner's arms must be free at all times.

So, what are the three main accessories you need to invest in?

1. A Canicross harness: made to fit around the dog's body in a Y-shape, these harnesses must conform perfectly your dog's torso and allow them to breathe freely.

2. A bungee line measuring about two metres.

3. A harness placed around the hips or a waist belt to attach the bungee line.

A hip belt is usually a better option than a waist belt as they tend to be more stable and won't strain your lower back if your dog jerks forward.

If you want to race with your four-legged pal, your dog must always run in front of you or beside you. They must never run behind you.

The pace of the race needs to be set by your dog so you can be sure they are enjoying themselves. In return, you will be able to take advantage of the natural traction provided by the Canicross harness and adjust to the speed of your dog. Canicross is a real speed sport. In fact, you can gain up to 4 km an hour running with your dog than you would alone!

The only times you are allowed to pull on the line is to reposition your dog or to send them in the right direction.

If your dog decides at any point that they no longer want to run, then the race is over for everyone!

While not compulsory, it is highly recommended to get a full vet check before getting started in Canicross and before competitions. This will allow you to check the following:

• that your dog is not in heat (important for competitions);

• general health of your dog and their range of motion;

• that their vaccines are up-to-date;

Please note that your dog must be microchipped to take part in races and the information on the system must be correct and up-to-date.

While your dog will never be off lead during a race, all dogs in the UK must legally be microchipped.

Dogs must be at least 12 months old to participate in competitions but bear in mind that larger breeds may only reach their full size at 24 months. It is therefore essential to think about the size of your dog and their development.

You don't need a health certificate to take part in a race but you do need to be in good shape!

If you're really looking for a thrill, look into the Trophée des Montagnes race. A Canicross institution, this race takes place in the French Alps each year where runners from all over the world join together to take in the views!

Canicross gives human and dog the unique opportunity to enjoy a challenge and a spot of exercise as a team. And what could be better than that? One last word of advice before you hit the road: be careful firing up the engine for the first time!