🐕‍🦺 Canicross for Beginners: Run Together, Bond Forever

If you're looking for a new way to get active with your dog, Canicross might be your perfect match. Whether you’re a casual jogger or just looking for a fun way to explore the outdoors together, this dog-powered sport is all about teamwork, exercise, and building a deeper bond.

At Pickles Pet Pantry, we’re passionate about Canicross — not just as a fitness trend, but as a powerful way to enrich your dog’s life and yours.

🏃‍♂️ What Is Canicross?

Canicross is cross-country running with your dog, where your dog wears a specially designed harness and runs ahead of you, attached by a bungee line to your waist belt. It’s low-impact, high-reward, and suitable for most breeds and fitness levels.

It’s not about speed — it’s about moving together, as a team.

🐾 Why Try Canicross?

• Boosts your dog’s physical health (and yours!)

• Builds a strong bond through teamwork and communication

• Mentally stimulates dogs by giving them a job to do

• A great outlet for high-energy or working breeds

• Supports confidence-building in anxious or reactive dogs

• Helps you both get outdoors and stay active — rain or shine!

🦴 What Do You Need to Get Started?

Starting is easier than you think — here’s your beginner’s checklist:

✅ A well-fitting Canicross harness

Not just any harness! Your dog needs one designed for forward pulling — we stock several ergonomic, breed-friendly options at Pickles. We recommend Non-Stop harnesses such as the freemotion or the rush.

✅ A bungee lead (canicross line)

Absorbs shock and reduces strain on both you and your dog’s joints.

✅ A waist belt (for you!)

Distributes pull across your hips and lower back — leaving your hands free and posture safe.

✅ Good trainers & water bottle

Because let’s face it — once you start, you’ll be hooked!

🐾 At Pickles Pet Pantry, we offer Canicross kits, individual gear, fittings, and real advice based on experience. Come in and try before you buy!

🏃‍♀️ Join Our Pickles Cani Running Club!

Want to get started in a friendly, supportive environment?Join our Pickles Cani Running Club – every Sunday at 8am (temperature permitting).

Led by our experienced team, this group is perfect for beginners looking to:

• Learn the ropes in a safe, social setting

• Get comfortable with the gear

• Build confidence in a no-pressure environment

• Enjoy the community of other dog-and-human runners

Booking is essential — just pop into the shop, message us via our app, or call to reserve your spot!

☀️ Note: sessions may be paused during hot weather for dog safety – we’ll always keep you updated!

🐶 Is My Dog Suitable for Canicross?

Most healthy dogs over 12–18 months (once fully grown) can give Canicross a go. Here’s what to consider:

• Is your dog physically healthy?

• Are they comfortable around people and other dogs?

• Do they enjoy being active or pulling out ahead?

If your dog is nervous or reactive, Canicross can still work — in fact, it can help! We recommend starting with quieter routes and building confidence gradually.

🏞️ Beginner-Friendly Tips

1. Start slow – Walk–run intervals are perfect in the beginning.

2. Use voice commands – Teach simple cues like “Go!”, “Left,” “Right,” and “Easy.”

3. Warm up and cool down – Just like humans, dogs need prep time.

4. Keep it positive – Treats, praise, and fun are your best tools.

5. Don’t overdo it – Short, consistent runs build endurance safely.

🛍️ Everything You Need, All in One Place

We stock:

• Canicross harnesses, belts, and bungee lines

• Trail-safe treats for training and fuelling

• Supplements and food to support active dogs (like our Peterinary® range)

• Real guidance from a team who actually run with our dogs

🎉 Final Thought:

Canicross isn’t about racing — it’s about running together.Join us, take that first step, and experience what it’s like to move as a team — with muddy paws, happy tails, and a little extra cardio along the way.

📍 Book into our Sunday Cani Club today — we can’t wait to run with you!Let us know if you’d like us to help fit your gear in advance.