Embarking on a running journey with your canine companion, often referred to as canicross, is an increasingly popular way for dog owners to combine exercise, bonding, and the overall well-being of both human and animal. With a significant rise in dog ownership in recent years, and a concurrent increase in pet obesity rates, integrating running into your routine can be a highly effective strategy for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This practice not only benefits your physical health but also offers substantial advantages for your dog’s mental and emotional state. However, it is crucial to approach this activity with the correct equipment and techniques to ensure safety for both you and your dog. Dog ownership has rocketed in recent years%20owning%20a%20cat.), and ten million – an incredible 34% of households – now share their space with a dog. This increase highlights the growing need for information on how to best engage with our pets.
The Risks of Traditional Leash Running
Running with your dog using a standard lead attached to a collar can pose several risks. Dogs, even smaller breeds, possess considerable strength and can exert significant pulling force, especially when running at their own pace. When this force is applied directly to a collar, it can lead to choking, which is not only uncomfortable for the dog but also strongly discouraged by canine sports professionals. Beyond the discomfort for your pet, holding a traditional lead in one hand while running can disrupt your natural running form, leading to an imbalance. This can result in jarring movements, increasing the risk of wrist or shoulder injuries for you. Furthermore, it limits your arm drive, hindering efficient running. The control afforded by a standard lead and collar is also compromised, making it easier for your dog to pull you off balance, particularly if they are reactive to stimuli or suddenly become interested in something.
The Importance of a Specialized Harness
A far safer and more effective alternative for running with your dog is a specialized canicross harness. These harnesses are meticulously designed to allow for maximum freedom of movement for your dog, ensuring comfort and preventing restriction of their shoulder joints. This design significantly reduces the likelihood of your dog sustaining injuries. Canicross harnesses come in various styles, broadly categorized as short and long. The choice between them often depends on your dog’s pulling style. Dogs with a strong, consistent pull may benefit more from a long harness, as it distributes the force across their body more evenly. Conversely, a short harness is designed to encourage a dog to generate power from their front legs. It is paramount to ensure that any harness is correctly measured and fitted to your individual dog. Companies like DogFit offer starter kits and taster sessions to assist owners in finding the perfect fit, along with a directory of instructors nationwide who can provide fittings and advice.
Essential Gear for the Human Runner
Once you have equipped your dog with the appropriate harness, the next crucial step is to invest in suitable gear for yourself. This typically involves a canicross belt or a specialized human harness. The advantage of a human harness over a standard waist belt is its ability to reduce strain on your lower back, especially when running with a powerful pulling dog. Standard waist belts offer less support and can potentially lead to back injuries. Instead of resting around your waist, a human canicross harness is designed to sit on the pelvis and is often secured with leg straps. This configuration ensures that the pulling force exerted by your dog is absorbed by the strongest part of your body – the pelvis – thereby protecting your more vulnerable lower back. Utilizing a harness also provides you with greater control over your dog, as they are connected to a stable core via a specialized lead. This setup allows for hands-free running, enabling you to use your arms for momentum and balance, particularly on uneven terrain.
The Role of the Bungee Lead
The critical connection between your dog’s harness and your own canicross harness is the bungee lead. This specialized lead features a springy or elastic section designed to absorb shock and soften any sudden tugs or jarring movements. This not only enhances comfort for both you and your dog but also prevents abrupt and potentially harmful forces from being transmitted between you. Bungee leads are available in various lengths, and the ideal choice will depend on your dog’s size, height, and strength. It is advisable to seek expert advice when selecting a bungee lead, as a longer lead generally provides more space between you and your dog.
Navigating Parkrun with Your Dog
Recent rule changes at parkrun have impacted how participants can run with their dogs. Citing safety concerns for other runners, parkrun now prohibits dogs from being attached to waist belts or canicross harnesses. Instead, dogs must be kept on a handheld, non-extendable lead, positioned to the side of the owner rather than in front. To ensure the safety and comfort of your dog under these new regulations, it is recommended to use a handheld lead attached to a dog harness rather than a collar. This configuration is permitted within parkrun rules and offers a more comfortable experience for your canine companion. For those seeking to deepen their understanding of canicross and running with their dogs, Louise Humphrey’s podcast, Canicross Conversations, co-hosted with running coach Michelle Mortimer, offers valuable insights and practical advice.
