© Copyright Cani-Fit 2025
So you want to start canicrossing but don’t know where to begin? We’ve got you covered! We’ve been leading canicross classes and running canicross events in Scotland since 2011. In that time, we’ve helped hundreds of newcomers go from complete beginners to confident racers.
While we are lucky to have a wide network of canicross classes and clubs here, we appreciate that there are many parts of the world where the sport has no presence, and so interested dog owners might find it tricky to get started. If you’re wanting to get started, this page is for you.
Canicross is the sport of cross country running with dogs. The dog wears a harness which is attached to the runner by a bungee line to a belt. The dog is trained to pull, and responds to directional commands. Canicross has its own commands, equipment, etiquette and races.
Many people run with their dogs, but not all are canicrossers. In your local area you may see dogs trotting alongside runners on a loose leash attached to a collar or harness, dogs running free with their owners, and various types of different equipment. Canicross is its own activity with its own equipment, commands and technique.
What does canicross look like? Here’s video from some of our classes!
As long as your dog is fit, healthy, of the right age, and able to run, you can canicross with them. Our classes welcome a wide range of breeds and mixes of many different shapes and sizes, some of which might surprise you! For canicross, your dog should be at least 11 months old, be fit and healthy, and be able to regulate their breathing adequately.
Have a small dog? No problem!
Everybody has to start somewhere; you can begin your canicross journey at any level of fitness as long as you are physically well enough to exercise. As a beginner, your main goal is not to smash your personal best time for a 5k, it’s to have fun, learn a new activity, and strengthen the bond with your dog. For many people, canicross is their first step into cross country running.
You should have trainers to get started and some comfortable lightweight exercise clothing, something you can move freely in and that you don’t mind getting a little muddy. Trail shoes are ideal but ordinary trainers will be enough to let you get started on dry trails.
In terms of canicross specific equipment, you will need a belt, bungee line, and a harness for your dog. We will go over the specifics later on in this page, so don’t panic if you’re not quite sure what you should be looking for!
It’s very unlikely this will happen! The equipment that is used for canicross is specially designed to aid your balance and for shock absorption. If you’re just starting out and are lacking in confidence, you can find yourself a flat, soft and dry trail to get started on for your first couple of runs. This will help you build your confidence and get a feel for the equipment before moving on to more technical trails.
When we talk about ‘canicross equipment’, we are usually referring to three key items: a belt for the human, a harness for the dog, and a bungee line that connects them together.
When you start shopping around for canicross equipment, it can all seem a little daunting. We’ll help break down what to look for when you’re getting your own kit.
Canicross belts generally have a hip/waist strap to hold them in place and a supportive band across the bum, and have leg straps to ensure the belt stays straight while running. This allows the runner to benefit from the pull of the dog and propels them forward without straining the back.
Many belts come in a single size but are highly adjustable, making it relatively easy to find something that fits. If you are on the larger or more petite side, you may benefit from finding a belt that comes in specific sizes. Many canicross equipment companies will help you find the right belt if you get in touch with them, so if unsure don’t be afraid to ask!
You may also find ‘handsfree walking belts’ or ‘jogging belts’ in search results when looking for a suitable belt for canicross. These loop around the waist, making them easy to put on, but are incredibly uncomfortable when paired with a dog that pulls, and could eventually lead to severe back pain. They twist, they ride up and down, they put pressure on the spine and so are best avoided for canicross.
A harness that allows the dog to pull out in front comfortably is an absolute necessity for canicross, and for any other dog-powered activity.
A bad harness can cause injury to your dog, whether through muscle strain, chafing, constriction around the neck etc. A good harness will distribute the pull and allow for them to run at their best.
Long and short harnesses are available, and both have their strengths and weaknesses depending on your individual dog and their needs.
+ Allow the dog to flex their spine and open their gait, ideal for keen pullers.
+ Easy to put on and adjust.
+ Attach further up the dog than a long harness, so can offer better control and make it easier for the dog to be reigned in.
The line connects your belt to your dog’s harness. They are either partially or fully elasticated, and this absorbs any sudden jolts and protects your back.
They also come in different lengths. For canicross, the standard length is 2 metres, but ‘short’ 1.2 metre lines are also available.
The choice of line is mostly down to personal preference, but here are a few things to think about.
For reactive dogs or highly excitable dogs, we like lines with handles on the dog’s end. This allows them to be pulled in and kept under closer control if the need arises. Short lines can also keep them closer and within reach.
For very large, or very driven dogs a fully elasticated line can feel more comfortable when running and minimises jolts.
For distractable dogs who like to wander and weave, a shorter line can help retain focus while you get them used to pulling in harness.
Canicross is a team sport. Our dogs are out in front pulling, and it’s our job to give them directions and instructions to keep the run going smoothly. We do this with voice commands.
The most common commands found in the sport are:
• “Gee” – Go Right
• “Haw” – Go Left
• “Forward” – Forward
• “On by” – Ignore keep going
• “Hike on” – Use more pulling power to carry forward
• “Let’s go” – Speeding up or starting to go
• “Steady” – Slow the pace
• “Line out” – Stand still facing forward with tension on the line
• “Back” – have your dog running by your side or behind you
You don’t have to train these all at once. Focus on teaching directional commands such as ‘Gee’ and ‘Haw’ first. You can do this on your walks where the pace is slower and the dog is more relaxed before using the commands on the trails. It may seem like a daunting prospect at first, but most dogs will pick up canicross commands quickly as long as you’re consistent in your training.
Tip: Avoid using hand signals; you want your dog to keep their eyes on the trail ahead, not looking back towards you!
Needing help setting you and your dog up for success on your first run? You can sign up to our completely free 5 day beginners plan here!
Want to know more? Over the years we’ve shared some of our insights over on the Cani-Fit website. Check out some of these articles!
© Copyright Cani-Fit 2025
