We’re a nation of dog lovers – but surveys reveal that Brits aren’t always so keen to exercise their dogs outdoors. This is bad news for dogs – and not encouraging news for our own fitness levels. There are several reasons why people say they are a bit slack on the dog walking, and one of them is the wet.
Yet, even the most budget-conscious dog owner should be able to afford a waterproof jacket and trousers for themselves, and a jacket to protect their dogs, too.
Another excuse given for limiting dog walking activities is that it’s “boring”. People complain that they walk the same old route every day and they simply can’t be bothered. Which is why we’re excited about a fast-growing trend for the dog and human pursuit of Cani-cross. By joining a cani-cross group you’ll discover a while new world of dog exercising.
What is cani-cross
This is a sport that sees dogs and their human owners running cross-country. This doesn’t have to be long-distance and could simply be a few miles each day, but it does offer a greater breadth of dog exercising opportunities.
Cani-cross is a great activity for improving dog and owner fitness. It’s a brilliant way to meet new dog-focused people and to become fitter yourself. If you so fancy, you and your dog can also part in a rising number of Cani-Cross events, from 2.5ks to 10ks to off-road marathon that place across the UK.
One enthusiastic Cani-Cross trainer and runner is Lindsay, of Glasgow-based Cani-Fit. She offers a number of cani-cross training sessions for all abilities, from new-comers to more experienced runners, in and around the Scottish city. She runs with her own dog Suko, a large malamute.
Lindsay has been interested in Cani-Cross as a way to keep her dog fit and happy, and because she loves running in the great outdoors. She prefers longer distance runs - "I like slower and longer runs," she says.
Thanks to the use of a special dog harness that fits comfortably around the dog and keeps the lead from becoming entangled in their legs, and a padded waist harness, dog and owners can run in unison. An elasticated lead means that if dog or owner need to stop suddenly, neither one is jolted uncomfortably.
Most dog breeds are suitable for Cani-Cross although it can require some training to ensure that dog and human run along happily together. The running distance of each dog will vary but many dogs love being able to lead their owners along countryside trails.
Lindsay says: “Cani-Cross is really taking off in the UK now, having come from Canada where it’s a huge sport. I have been taken aback by the interest in my cani-cross running sessions and many more people are asking about harnesses and training their dogs.
“This is such a great way to get fit, and it is also a fantastic workout for the dog.
Apart from the dog and owner harnesses, little else is required in the way of equipment. People dress in their normal running clothing, and most wear off-road running shoes. During winter months it’s a good idea to wear a waterproof jacket and long tights. If you’re running in a dimly lit area then brighter clothing is recommended. You dog might also value a waterproof dog jacket in poorer weather.
