Rent safe and private dog parks hosted by locals

  1. Home
  2. Blog
  3. Dog Enrichment
  4. Canicross: Guide to Trail Racing With Your Dog

Canicross: Guide to Trail Racing With Your Dog

David Adams photo

David Adams

March 20, 2024

Dog Enrichment

Canicross: Guide to Trail Racing With Your Dog thumbnail

One of the countless benefits of being a dog parent is having a built-in exercise buddy who is always ready to explore the outdoors and have fun with you. Of course, casual walking, jogging, and hiking are great ways to do so. But if you want to take it up a notch or two? Canicross might be just the activity for you!

What is canicross? Short for “canine cross country,” canicross is trail running — and sometimes racing in competitions — with your four-legged best friend. However, there is much more to it than simply hitting a random path.

Read on to learn a little history behind canicross, why canicross is beneficial, how you and your pup can train for the sport, and how to get started.

So, What Is Canicross, Exactly?

The history of canine cross country

Generations ago, sled dog trainers started training their dogs in Europe during the off-season so that they could stay in shape. (Skijoring and bikejoring are related dog running sports that likely have similar origins.)

Over time, canicross, sometimes considered a form of urban mushing, became a stand-alone sport in its own right. By the early 2000s, canine cross country enthusiasts started to organize competitions.

Although canicross was largely unheard of in the United States until recently, it is quickly gaining popularity as both a form of physical exercise and competition. While canicross USA events do tend to be more prevalent in cooler climate regions of the US (where mushing and sled dog sports are generally more popular due to the accessibility of snow during winter months) many dog parents are becoming increasingly interested in the stand-alone sport regardless of the weather where they live.

What canine cross country looks like and how the sport works

So what is canicross? It is a team sport consisting of one person and one or two dogs running together. The dogs are connected to the human runner via a canicross belt — together, canine and human can run more quickly and keep up their energy levels over longer distances and periods of time.

Canicross USA events are typically 5k (around three miles) but they can be as long as 10k (about six miles) or more depending on the canicross setup.

Proper canicross gear

Most often, the person on a canicross team wears a specially-designed waist belt (aptly called a canicross belt) to which the dog's canicross harness (which is specially designed for pulling) is connected. When two dogs are running together, an elastic line is also used to join them, reducing the shock to the entire team when a dog pulls.

What Are Some Benefits of Canicross?      

Why canicross? The sport offers numerous advantages for both dogs and humans.

Physical activity and healthy movement

One of the many things people and their pets — really all living creatures — have in common is a need for regular movement to maintain their physical health. While any level of exercise is better than living a sedentary life, bouts of high-intensity exercise can have particular benefits.

Canicross is excellent for reaching or maintaining a healthy weight, strengthening muscles, and supporting the cardiovascular system.

Fresh air and time outside

Fresh air is also beneficial to pups and their parents. Even the cleanest indoor spaces often contain toxins and allergens like mold, dust, and chemicals from household cleaners. Getting out into nature can help both you and your four-legged companion breathe easier.

Plus the sun is a natural source of vitamin D, which supports strong bones (and which the majority of adult Americans are actually deficient in).

Mental stimulation and enrichment

Canine enrichment is essential to the physical and mental well-being of your dog. Canicross stimulates your pup's mind, fulfills their natural drives, offers exposure to different situations (a key part of healthy socialization), and provides sensory engagement. This all makes it a holistic enrichment option!

Boredom prevention, especially in anxious dogs

Dogs who are anxious, reactive, or otherwise struggle with life in our modern human world can also benefit from embarking on a canicross journey. Many intelligent, sensitive reactive pups can quickly become bored, increasing their anxiety and contributing to long-term behavioral issues. Giving a reactive dog a “job” — an activity they love to do alongside you that has some clear goals — can provide them with a sense of purpose and achievement. Plus positive experiences out on the trail (and maybe eventually in canicross races) can build into greater confidence over time. Who doesn't want to be focused and happy?

Sniffspot Dog running on field

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

Can My Dog Do Canicross? What Are Canicross Dog Breeds?

Your dog doesn't have to be a special breed, size, or even a certain age to participate in canicross. That said: There are certain factors to consider.

How old should a canicross dog be?

Wondering what age to start canicross? Dogs should be fully grown before starting the sport. While it might seem like the ideal activity for an high-energy breed puppy, dogs should be at least a year – or even two years old for larger breeds – before starting.

  • Puppies need more rest than adult dogs do.
  • Puppies' bones are still growing and their muscles are still developing.
  • It's a good idea to talk to your vet about obtaining preliminary hip and elbow radiographs before starting. Your vet can help rule out (or detect) any underlying conditions that could be exacerbated by the pulling force used in canicross. This is a good thing to do before starting any form of canine exercise program!

How big should a canicross dog be?

While a multitude of breeds of many sizes can enjoy canicross, you will have a different experience with a small dog than with a larger one.

Some hauling breeds, such as malamutes, huskies, weimaraners, and vizslas, are especially physically suited for the stamina and energy the sport requires. But don't rule out your furry best friend if they aren't one of these preferred breeds! Any active, healthy dog can be a great candidate for canicross. The sport continues to become more welcoming over time.

On the other hand, dogs with certain health issues — or even just predispositions toward them — might be safer and happier participating in other activities that are still mentally stimulating but involve less intense exercise. For instance, if your pup is prone to joint problems or breathing conditions such as brachycephalic syndrome in brachiocephalic breeds, talk to your vet before giving canicross a try.

How To Train Your Dog for Canicross: Canicross Starter Kit

Before you begin to train your dog for canicross, make sure you have the required gear. There are three essential items you need:

  •          A pulling harness.
  •          An elastic leash.
  •          A canicross waist belt.

The best canicross dog harness will have an ergonomic fit with a y-shaped opening at the neck to support your dog's breathing and movement. A strong but lightweight waist belt and an elastic leash that connects to it complete the setup. Trail shoes are also recommended for the best traction and protection on the human end!

As with any new sport or exercise routine, it’s a good idea to consult with your vet and your own healthcare provider before you begin to train your dog for canicross. We can't stress this safety precaution enough.

Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot

Sniffspot Dog swimming in pool

How To Train Your Dog for Canicross: Exercise and Movement Cues

Warm up before training to prevent injuries and prepare for exercise. Some canicross trainers prepare active stretches, which encourage the dog to stretch, while others like static stretching, where the person gently stretches the dog’s muscles.

During warm-up, watch for any signs of issues or injuries, such as limping, reluctance, yelping or sensitivity when touched in a specific area, or unusual panting. Seek medical advice before continuing if you notice that your dog has any concerning symptoms.

Cooling down after training is also essential. Gradually slow down from a run to a casual walk to allow your dog’s heart rate and body temperature to regulate.

Teach your dog common canicross cues, such as the following.

  • Line out. This is a cue for the dog to stand facing forward with the leash tight in preparation.
  • Hike. This means “go” and is most often used at the start of a race.
  • Gee for “turn right.’
  • Haw for “turn left.”
  • On by for “keep going,” often used to go around other canicrossers or ignore a distraction.
  • Let’s go to speed up or resume racing.
  • Back or behind to prompt your dog to fall behind you or back up.
  • Let’s go home to pick up speed, especially at the end of a canicross race.
  • Whoa means “stop.”

Once your dog has mastered these skills, you can teach them to pull. Begin using the canicross harness when training for canicross. You can still use a traditional harness for regular walks and other activities, but use the canicross gear exclusively for canicross training.

Some dogs find success when starting with an easy pace, like power walking, and praise when the dog pulls. It can be helpful to have someone else walk ahead of you alongside the dog, encouraging proper speed and pull.

How To Start Canicross With Your Dog

When you and your pet are ready, you can plan how to start canicross. First, make sure you are both well-hydrated. Encourage drinking lots of water starting three hours before you run. It’s also recommended that you not feed your dog for several hours before a race, as running on a full belly can be very dangerous and even fatal. 

Be sure to check your pup’s feet and legs before and after runs. Look for swelling, cuts, skin damage, or signs of pain.

Find a soft trail (natural surfaces are recommended) and choose a time to run when there are not likely to be many cars or people passing through.

If you can find other canicrossers in your area, try to meet up and run together. Canicross is a social sport, and practicing together will encourage you both while helping you pick up the sport more quickly.

When you and your dog are ready, enter a race!

Sniffspot Dog running on field

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

Where to Find Canicross Events, Groups, and More

Check out these groups and organizations to find other canicrossers in your area, race info and, perhaps most importantly, to find canicross events.

Facebook also has dozens of canicross clubs, from general groups based on experience level to location-based groups and even groups based on breed. So there’s a good chance you’ll find the perfect fit for you and your best buddy.

The only thing left to do is start racing and have a blast.

Trainer that reviewed this article

There is so much misinformation out there, we want to make sure we only provide the highest quality information to our community. We have all of our articles reviewed by qualified, positive-only trainers. The trainers that review our content are reviewed by other trainers to ensure that we have the best quality filters on our content. 

These are the trainers that reviewed this article:

Camilla Echeverria, CTDI, KPA CTP
AKC CGC and Trick Dog Evaluator
Founder and Managing Director of the Northwest School for Dogs

Penny Locke
Proudly offering Positive Reinforcement & Force-free Dog Training
www.allabout-canines.com

Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot

Sniffspot Dog swimming in pool
David Adams photo

David Adams

March 20, 2024

Dog Enrichment

About Sniffspot

Sniffspot is a community marketplace that enables anyone to rent land by-the-hour as a safe and private dog park.

Follow us

Find Sniffspot on your favorite social media

TiktokInstagramFacebookYoutube
Related articles
Meet the Jack Russell Terrier: Advice from Real Owners thumbnailMeet the Jack Russell Terrier: Advice from Real Owners
Explore the Dalmatian: Genuine Tips from Real-World Owners thumbnailExplore the Dalmatian: Genuine Tips from Real-World Owners
Meet the Bernese Mountain Dog: Essential Tips from Owners thumbnailMeet the Bernese Mountain Dog: Essential Tips from Owners
All categories

Most recent articles

Meet the Jack Russell Terrier: Advice from Real Owners thumbnailMeet the Jack Russell Terrier: Advice from Real Owners
Meet the Jack Russell Terrier: Advice from Real Owners thumbnail

Meet the Jack Russell Terrier: Advice from Real Owners

Discover the Jack Russell Terrier, a breed celebrated for its intelligent and affectionate nature. Recognized as a small dog, Jack Russell Terriers have their origins in England, where they were initially bred for fox hunting and vermin control starting in the 19th century.

Explore the Dalmatian: Genuine Tips from Real-World Owners thumbnailExplore the Dalmatian: Genuine Tips from Real-World Owners
Explore the Dalmatian: Genuine Tips from Real-World Owners thumbnail

Explore the Dalmatian: Genuine Tips from Real-World Owners

Discover the Dalmatian, a breed celebrated for its affectionate, trainable, and loyal nature. Recognized as a medium-sized dog, Dalmatians have their origins in Croatia, where they were initially bred for coaching (running along carriages), guarding, and hunting starting in the 16th century.

Meet the Bernese Mountain Dog: Essential Tips from Owners thumbnailMeet the Bernese Mountain Dog: Essential Tips from Owners
Meet the Bernese Mountain Dog: Essential Tips from Owners thumbnail

Meet the Bernese Mountain Dog: Essential Tips from Owners

Discover the Bernese Mountain Dog, a breed celebrated for its affectionate, loyal, and playful nature. Recognized as a large dog, Bernese Mountain Dogs have their origins in Switzerland, where they were initially bred for guarding livestock and droving work starting in the 1st century.

The Best Albuquerque, New Mexico Dog Parks thumbnailThe Best Albuquerque, New Mexico Dog Parks
The Best Albuquerque, New Mexico Dog Parks thumbnail

The Best Albuquerque, New Mexico Dog Parks

Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Albuquerque? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in Duke City.

How to Become a Dog Trainer thumbnailHow to Become a Dog Trainer
How to Become a Dog Trainer thumbnail

How to Become a Dog Trainer

44.5 percent of all American households share life with a canine companion. Pet professionals like dog trainers, veterinarians, and veterinary behaviorists are more important than ever as our modern society becomes increasingly difficult for four-legged friends to navigate—dog reactivity, anxiety, and general stress from lack of proper enrichment are on the rise in domestic dogs.

The Best Fenced Dog Parks in the United States thumbnailThe Best Fenced Dog Parks in the United States
The Best Fenced Dog Parks in the United States thumbnail

The Best Fenced Dog Parks in the United States

In our modern, human-centric world, it can be hard to find spaces for your pup to safely play off leash—especially if they’re a flight risk. Dogs who might run off after interesting smells, prey, or simply because they feel the whim can be a hazard in unfenced areas. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best securely fenced dog parks throughout the United States!

Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

  • How to Deal With Food Aggression in Dogs (Facts + Infographic) thumbnail

    How to Deal With Food Aggression in Dogs (Facts + Infographic)

    Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.

  • Comprehensive Guide to Scent Training for Dogs (Facts + Infographic) thumbnail

    Comprehensive Guide to Scent Training for Dogs (Facts + Infographic)

    As almost every dog owner is aware, the nose of a dog is an amazing thing. Just as they can pick up sounds we can’t hear, their sense of smell and ability to pick up scents is well beyond ours. In fact, dogs have 40 times the number of olfactory receptors as humans.

  • How Much Does it Cost to Train a Service Dog? thumbnail

    How Much Does it Cost to Train a Service Dog?

    More than 80 million Americans rely on their service dogs to help them navigate the world. Task-trained assistance animals perform a huge range of life-changing—in many cases, life-saving—services: These dogs act as eyes for visually impaired handlers, provide mobility support, alert to seizures and blood sugar crashes, interrupt anxiety attacks, remind their people to take medications, and so much more.

  • What is and How to Handle Potty Training Regression thumbnail

    What is and How to Handle Potty Training Regression

    You thought your dog was house trained. Your home was clean from puddles of pee, those dreaded middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks were behind you, and you loved every minute of dog ownership… until your four-legged best friend started using the bathroom inside again. What’s going on?

  • Coprophagia: Why Does Your Dog Eat Poop? thumbnail

    Coprophagia: Why Does Your Dog Eat Poop?

    Ah, poop. We humans think it’s disgusting… but many of our dogs seem to love the stuff. If you’re wondering why your canine companion tries to eat feces (either their own or that of other animals) you’re not alone!

Dog enrichment guides

  • The Best Dog Water Parks in the United States thumbnail

    The Best Dog Water Parks in the United States

    Do you have a water-loving dog looking to burn some energy? There are countless dog parks to visit throughout our country — but some of them become far too hot in the midday sun to be safe for your pets to play. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best dog water parks throughout the United States! At these locations, your pup can frolic, splash, and swim to their heart’s content.

  • Best Toys for Herding Dogs thumbnail

    Best Toys for Herding Dogs

    * All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

  • The Best Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers (Facts + Infographic) thumbnail

    The Best Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers (Facts + Infographic)

    Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with remnants of fabric and stuffing of all different sizes? Are you tired of investing in “indestructible” toys only for your pup to still dismantle—or worse, get bored of—them in just a few days?

  • Dog Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need? thumbnail

    Dog Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need?

    You’ve been told your dog needs regular exercise. There’s a reason “walking the dog” is a classic daily activity: Frequent excursions give your pup a chance to experience the world, maintain a healthy weight, and — most importantly — spend time with you! Consistent physical activity can also improve their strength, muscle tone, coordination, and mental ability over time.

  • Complete Guide To Herding With Dogs thumbnail

    Complete Guide To Herding With Dogs

    * All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Dog reactivity guides

Sniffspot community guides

  • The State of Public Dog Parks Across the United States thumbnail

    The State of Public Dog Parks Across the United States

    From 2009 to 2020, there was a 40 percent increase in the development of public dog parks. Designated spots for canine exercise have become commonplace in every major city in North America — many pet owners won’t even consider renting an apartment that doesn’t have its own fenced-in pet area for their canine companions.

  • How This Family is Affording Their Dream Property Through Renting it Hourly to Dogs thumbnail

    How This Family is Affording Their Dream Property Through Renting it Hourly to Dogs

    Thousand Oaks, California has been a safe haven for Sniffspot host, Jen, since childhood. Having grown up in busy Santa Barbara, Jen, an introvert from an early age, would seek out solitude and serenity away from tourists attractions and droves of people visiting from elsewhere. “My grandparents own 60 acres about a 30 minute drive from here, and I grew up spending every summer and every holiday visiting them on the ranch,” Jen explained. “In Santa Barbara, we wouldn't go to the beach on the weekend because that's where everybody was, so you'd find places off the beaten path where the tourists weren't. For me, the ranch was just my happy place.” 

  • Host Tips: Ellen K. What Makes Sniffspot Successful for Me thumbnail

    Host Tips: Ellen K. What Makes Sniffspot Successful for Me

    Ellen is the host of Country Pasture Getaway, one of Sniffspot's most popular sniff spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great sniff spot host.

  • How this Oregon Farmer is Making a Business From Renting Her Land to Dogs thumbnail

    How this Oregon Farmer is Making a Business From Renting Her Land to Dogs

    Just 20 minutes outside of the busy city of Portland, Oregon, and settled right on the banks of the Columbia River, you’ll find what countless visitors have flocked to the area in search of – mountain views, crisp, clean air, and running water for miles. What you might not expect to find, however, is a hidden oasis designed just for dogs and their people, owned and operated by a farming couple and enjoyed by visitors on two legs, and four.  

  • Host Tips: Fran T. Providing Great Guest Service at our Spot thumbnail

    Host Tips: Fran T. Providing Great Guest Service at our Spot

    Fran is the host of Ranch Setting, one of Sniffspot's most popular spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great Sniffspot host.

Top dog trainers in the US

City dog parks guides

  • The Best Indoor Dog Parks in the United States thumbnail

    The Best Indoor Dog Parks in the United States

    Looking for a space to play with your dog no matter what the weather’s like outside? Look no further than our list of the best indoor dog parks in the United States! These climate-controlled spaces are growing in popularity as pet ownership increases throughout the country. As a bonus, many of them also offer dog training, boarding, grooming, or daycare services on the premises.

  • The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in the United States thumbnail

    The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in the United States

    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered! It’s hard to narrow down, but we’ve put together some of the best off-leash dog parks throughout the country so you can plan your next adventure — along with a checklist of what to bring, what to know beforehand, and some frequently asked questions.

  • The Best Las Vegas, Nevada Dog Parks thumbnail

    The Best Las Vegas, Nevada Dog Parks

    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Las Vegas? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks to plan for your next adventure in Sin City.

  • The Best United States Dog Parks thumbnail

    The Best United States Dog Parks

    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!

  • The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks thumbnail

    The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks

    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Portland? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in the City of Roses.

Dogs breeds

  • Explore the German Shepherd Dog: Genuine Tips from Owners thumbnail

    Explore the German Shepherd Dog: Genuine Tips from Owners

    Discover the German Shepherd Dog, a breed celebrated for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Known for its impressive size and smooth, graceful movements, German Shepherds excel in various roles, including as guide, therapy, bomb detection, and police dogs, while being a devoted family companion.

  • Explore the Labrador Retriever: Real Tips from Owners thumbnail

    Explore the Labrador Retriever: Real Tips from Owners

    Discover the Labrador Retriever, a breed celebrated for its playful nature, affectionate temperament, and trainability. Labradors are known for their friendly demeanor and adaptability, making them perfect family companions and versatile working dogs.

  • Explore the Golden Retriever: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

    Explore the Golden Retriever: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

    Discover the Golden Retriever, a breed celebrated for its affectionate, playful, and trainable nature. Considered a large dog, Golden Retrievers were originally bred in Scotland for hunting and retrieving game beginning in the 1860s.

  • Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

    Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

    Discover the American Staffordshire Terrier, a breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and loyal nature. Considered a medium-sized dog, American Staffordshire Terriers were originally bred in the United Kingdom for baiting bulls, fighting, and hunting beginning in the 1800s — though they're known as gentle, playful lovers today.

  • Explore the Australian Shepherd: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

    Explore the Australian Shepherd: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

    Discover the Australian Shepherd, a breed celebrated for its trainable, playful, and affectionate nature. Considered a medium dog, Australian Shepherds were originally bred in the United States for herding beginning in the 1950s.

Top dog names in the US

  • Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names thumbnail

    Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new pup? We have created filterable lists of dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative dog names.
  • Most Popular Male Dog Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Male Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new male pup? We have created filterable lists of male dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative male dog names.
  • Most Popular Female Dog Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Female Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new female pup? We have created filterable lists of female dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative female dog names.
  • Most Popular Golden Retriever Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Golden Retriever Names

    Welcome to our comprehensive list of Golden Retriever dog names, curated from our vast database of Sniffspot users. Filter through hundreds of thousands of options by gender, breed, and state to discover the most adorable, original, and imaginative names for your beloved Golden Retriever.
  • Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names

    Welcome to our Labrador Retriever dog names page! Here you can browse through filterable lists of names for your beloved furry friend, ranging from cute and classic to unique and creative options. Our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users ensures you'll find the perfect name for your Labrador Retriever, whether you're seeking a name for a male or female, based on breed or state.