Every breed is able to participate. You’re working with your dog as a team. A larger breed dog may run faster or have more pull, but small breed dogs will enjoy this just as much.

As long as your dog is healthy enough to run and is over 1 year old, they can participate.

Because you should avoid taxing the joints of a pup who’s still growing, its recommended to wait until they’re at least a year old to start really pulling.

But don’t worry! We will have puppy classes starting soon where you can teach your pup the basics and participate with gentle, short pulls so they’re ready to go by the time they reach a year old. Email Kate Dalman at mdalman4@gmail.com to find out when those classes will be held.

For your first class, I recommend coming a half hour early and trying on some of our gear before making a purchase.

This is because it can be difficult to tell what saddle and harness work best for you and your dog without trying it on first.

You can learn more about what gear to look for here.

Our beginners class is an all level class. If you’re new to running or aren’t very fast, don’t worry! We’ll build up your strength and endurance over time.

Cani-hike is a great alternative to, or accompaniment of canicross. This is not just a dog walk - your dog is still harnessed and you’re still using the commands.

These classes aren’t only for attendees who can’t run, they’re great for building endurance, coming back from an injury, attendees with younger dogs who aren’t ready to pull yet, or just enjoying the scenery.

It’s a fast paced walk where the upper body is worked hard, core engaged and glutes fire up to keep a good pace. This is excellent for back end and core engagement for the dog, and core and glute for the hiker.

BENEFICIAL FOR DIFFERENT DOGS

- For dogs that pull throughout the session, a hilly hike would be good resistance training

- For dogs who run fast, they’ll take things slower and longer during a hike for good endurance

- For dogs who don’t pull well during canicross but take tension during Cani-hike, this will improve their core strength and lead to longer running over time

- For dogs who like to chase and not lead, taking a shot at the front at a walking pace will work on their confidence while leading

- For dogs who are easily distracted wanting to sniff, stop, etc. this is a good opportunity to work on focus and work ethic.

It’s not recommended to skip the Beginner class, even if you’re an experienced runner as we’ll be learning all the commands your dog will need to know to become an advanced canicrosser.

Don’t worry, there are additional routes added on for runners who want get some miles in!

Beginner - for people and dogs new to canicross. There are 4 weekly sessions in a Beginner’s Block

Mixed Ability - For those who’ve completed “Beginner” and want to take their running to the next level. These classes will be split into two groups: Intermediate and Expert. There are 4 weekly sessions in a Mixed Ability Block.

Cani-Hike - For those who want to build endurance, work on getting their dog to focus better, coming back from an injury, or just want to enjoy the scenery. This is a single session class.

There will also be running events and destination adventures.

1. You should arrive at class early to allow your dog time to potty and get their sniffs out of their system.

2. Each class will start with a Briefing where we’ll give a rundown of what the focus will be in that class and what routes we’ll take.

3. There will be a short period of walking/hiking followed by a period of jogging prior to running.

4. Breaks will be taken in between exercises.

5. Each class will have at least one exercise to work on commands.

6. Class will end with cool down/stretching.

The distance will vary based on the class level, ability and location. During the first week of a Beginners Block, you can expect to go less than 3 miles if you’re a beginning runner.

If you’re an experienced runner, there will be additional loops added on to get some extra miles in.

Some classes in a block will add distance while other classes will add more technical routes, but each class will be designed to add to your overall strength and endurance.