Help My dog is too fast for me!

I mean, look at the joyful expression on Laird's face as we hurtled towards the brave photographer, and my sheer determination to not fall over!

Actually this blog is in answer to a question on the Canicross Yorkshire page.

Canicross for dummies question! 

I've been running for a very first time. Strong n fast dog. She wanted go so I did let her, it was an uphill.

Things were starting getting very fast and fun and then there was the tree root I managed to get over but as I'm not used to that pulling force my other foot got twisted at ankle by landing...

how do you learn to cope with challenging environment and also how do you stop your dog in an emergency (or at all) 😂🙈

thanks!!

Oh how I feel your pain. Literally. Last December I slipped in the mud while attached to a fast excited dog, and the resultant fall tore muscles in my ankle.

So it's something I've been thinking a lot about, and testing answers for the last 6 months too.

Here's what I've come up with so far, but I'd love to hear your tips and hints too!


1. Look at your equipment

Over the years I've found that different line types and lengths can make a big difference with a strong or powerful puller (and with the more delicate souls too).

While the fully elasticated Non-Stop bungee line takes a lot of the sudden jolts out of the system to make acceleration a smoother experience, it can feel a bit like a never ending stretch to the dog.... and that is a problem because if your big, strong dog never feels like they've hit the end of the line, they might just not stop pulling!

So, I deliberately use a shorter, less elasticated line for some of our runs, especially where I might need more control or there's steeper descents. I'll also switch lines mid-run if needed.

2. Train a reliable "slow down" or pace change cue

Come running with us, and you'll hear slow sing-song commands like "stea-dy" in distinctive tones (high-low). Keeping your voice calm helps calm the dog down (screaming STEADY!!! rarely helps), and we use the cues just before we move from a run to jog, or jog to walk.

We also practice them when we're out walking (easier to reward with food then), and if your dog really is built like a tank, there's no shame in handing him/her over to a bigger stronger friend just while they get the idea.

3. Tweak your running style 

I'm definitely not saying that you just need to learn to run faster, but if your running style isn't very efficient that will definitely not be helping the situation.

Working on your proprioception and balance makes it easier to cope on rough ground, and learning to adapt to a faster cadence will help with a pace change too.   This helps you to make the most of the help the dog can give without dying yourself!

I've been learning to sprint which in turn makes it easier for Laird to listen to my slow down cue afterwards. After all, running at my speed must be super frustrating for him.


4. Choose the terrain and trails that help you focus on your key goals 

I have a special hatred of races that start with steep descents, or a steep uphill with a crowded field so no one can stretch their legs. For me, the ideal start is a gentle incline with a curve in the track.

But sadly I don't control the course designers. So what that tells me is exactly what I need to train for!

If my goal for today's run is slow and steady, I make sure to choose a route that has gentle gradient changes, minimal exciting livestock and try to avoid the hunting hours of dusk.

Able to let your dog safely off lead? Then do that on the steep sections rather than risk injury. Or run with a friend who can help out!


5. Have an emergency option just in case

For example I've been training Laird to be happy wearing a headcollar (which gives me more control) in case of any really serious steep descents, or if I'm injured and someone else has to get him off the hill. While Freya will generally walk sensibly if asked, I don't trust the Big Yin to be sensible with a stranger...

I'm also experimenting with a short grab handle that stays attached to Laird's collar (velcroed to the harness for storage) which lets me go for extra control in a short term situation.



The only one of the above ideas that could give you an "instant" fix is likely to be trying different lines, but I promise it is so worth the effort to choose at least one other option to train too.

Feeling over-dogged is both exhilarating, and terrifying. And long term it definitely contributes to running injuries so don't wait too long.


Happy Running

Morag and Laura

Canicross - it's more than just running with your dog!



Introduction to Canicross (1/2 day workshop)

WHAT: A 3 hour introduction to canicross (running with your dog as a team) covering choosing kit, teaching basic commands and putting it into practice. Refreshments provided. Kit fitting in a warm indoor hall. Training and running outside no matter the weather!

WHEN: Sunday 22nd September

WHERE: Sand Hutton Village Hall, just outside York   YO41 1LL

Book online now!

Canicross Survival Skills

WHAT: Two half day workshops to boost your skills and enjoyment

• 09:30 Warming up and cooling down for canicross (includes 2k run)
• 13:30 Tackling REAL hills (includes 3-5k run)

WHEN: Sunday 15th September

WHERE: Yorkshire Cycle Hub, Fryup Dale, North York Moors  YO21 2AP

• Each workshop is limited to a max 8 participants (up to 2 dogs per runner), includes refreshments and kit check.
• Open to any canicross runner, ideal if you have completed an intro session previously
• £50 per workshop OR book both for £90

Choose your workshops here! 

Three tips for surviving an enthusiastic canine running partner (canicross)

Canicross is all about your dog running with you as a team.

So it seems almost madness to complain when your dogs are really strong pullers!

But the truth is your dogs have the potential to run a lot faster than you and if your dog has enough muscle mass and determination, they can make a big difference to your running pace.

This is all very well when they’re pulling you up that hill, but it’s a lot less fun at the beginning of a race. Especially if the start is on a downhill!

Today one of our canicross group members asked

My male is incredibly strong on a general lead and can pull me off my feet almost with me in a harness, what is the best way to get him into canicross without risking life and limb?

 My answer is one of those it depends…

Because it does. It depends on the size of your dog, the strength of your dog, the ground underfoot, and the situation!

My preferred option is to go with what the dog is offering you. That means if you can learn to run a little bit faster, even just to begin with, so that you can take the power your dog is giving you rather than trying to hold them back or worse still heel strike to stop yourself going forwards too quickly so much the better.

But since living and running with Laird (36.4kg of muscled GWP), I’ve learned that just going with the pace isn’t always a safe or feasible option. Let’s face it. Laird can definitely run a lot faster than I can and it hurts when I try to sprint with him.

So instead here are my top three tips when one of your dogs is a superstrong enthusiastic canicrosser:

1. Make sure you have a clear distinction between the equipment that means running and racing versus walking calmly to the start line or walking by your side when the ground is tricky. For example, with Laird if I click the line to his collar then I’m asking him to walk beside me and under control. Rather than when the line is on his harness and he expects to be out front and working hard.
2. Create your own management plan that helps your dog to relax, stay calm and be attentive. You might choose to teach your dog some specific attention games or ask them to do simple behaviours like nose targets in exchange for very small treats. I also like to teach a conditioned relaxation cue that can be used to help bring those excitement levels down to something that is more bearable.
3. Lastly, I’ve recently discovered that it’s important to find the right balance of pre-running exercise or pre-race preparation. Often we might find that we’re running our dogs and that’s their first big bit of exercise of the day. Or we might both have been tapering down in preparation for a race. In my experience this works with some dogs, however, sometimes we need to include some pre-running exercise or prerace warmup etc in order to take the edge off that first really powerful sprint. So far I’ve had the best races with Laird when he’s had up to 2 hours of free running and hunting the night before a race and at least a 2 mile warmup before the actual event - he still has plenty of energy for running but he is also able to listen to my commands and back off if he’s pulling too hard 

My last little tip is also to look at the equipment and the kind of line you run your dog with. I love the non-stop full bungee lines because they make canicross feel smooth and connected. But, I found it easier to manage a big powerful strong pulling dog on a line that has slightly less elastic so that the dog can feel when they’ve actually reached the end of it.

The hints and tips above are based on my personal experience and from teaching canicross workshops for the last two years.

However as the Americans would say, your mileage may vary!

I’d love to know what’s worked for you and your dogs so please do post on our Facebook group hit reply to this email or comment on the blog post.

There are plenty of race events coming up and you’ll find those posted in our little Facebook group here is the link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/140034202734285/

If you know of any events that allow canicrossers to join in please do let me know, post them up in the group and let’s spread the word and build awareness of our amazing sport.

Getting started or need a refresher?

If you’re just getting started on your canicross journey or you’d like to refresh on some of the core techniques our last introduction to canicross workshop of the season is running on Sunday, 10 March

Book your intro workshop here

 

Want to try something a bit more adventurous? 

Why not join us in the North York Moors on Sunday 31st March for an improvers workshop to learn how to descend without death, power up those challenging hills, and create a super focused canicross dog.

Location: The Cycle Hub, Fryup Dale YO21 2AP 

Book your adventure here!


Happy running!

Morag with #BeautyAndTheBeast

Overtaking Etiquette in Canicross

Lately I’ve seen several reports of dogs being lunged at, scared by or even bitten by other competitors dogs as they were overtaking. This kind of accident can dent a dog’s confidence and even put them off running or racing full stop.

Following some simple rules can ensure you don’t end up accidentally being the owner of *that* lunging dog.

Super slow canicrosser? You still might have to pass a hiker on the path, and there’s always the chance of head to head passing in a lap type race.

Roadrunner speedy? You have to negotiate other runners with/without dogs plus the general public.

When we’re out on the trails with our dogs, the chances are you will see other people or runners too.



Canicross race? Check the established etiquette for your race (some have specific phrases like “trail left/right” to use)

Human race that allows canicrossers? Or just sharing the trails on a run? Make sure you have a clear process and stick to it – many other runners/walkers will be unfamiliar with being passed by a dog + human team.

Hints and Tips for Overtaking

• If you’re asked to start at the back of a race, give the other runners space and time to settle into their pace before trying to push through. Especially important if your dog tends to need an early toilet stop.
• Watch your distance – keep your dog OFF the heels of other runners. It’s a lot like driving on a motorway, you need to know your stopping distance!
• Beware if you use the full bungee lines like the non-stop that there’s a lot of stretch in them!
• Look for a clear space for your overtake (whether its another runner or a walker) and shout ahead BEFORE your dog is alongside. I tend to use “Dog Passing Right/Left”.
• Pull out with plenty of room, and only cut back in when you are well past (think driving with a trailer!)
• Are you TOTALLY confident your dog won’t veer over or interfere with the person/dog you’re passing? Really sure? If you’re not, practice gathering in your line as you start to overtake.
• If your dog struggles a lot consider teaching them to run by your side for overtaking, and make sure you are between them and the other person or dog.

Being overtaken?

• Slow down a little if you can to get the process over as quickly as possible, or at least make sure your dog doesn’t speed up!
• See above about gathering your dog in if there is ANY chance of them interfering, lunging out or just trying to make a new best friend!
• If your dog finds it really hard to cope when being passed, teach them to stop and stay by your side on cue – much better to have a slower run time than an accident.

Next week I’ll talk more about training for and handling head to head passing.


Happy Running!

Morag and the beasties 

Dalby Canicross Race report from Nikki and Coco – the dog that doesn’t pull consistently…

What a little superstar Coco is!

Canicross race this morning at Dalby Forest and she was Little Miss Social Butterfly.

Consistent pulling, a massive huge improvement from the November race. I was so proud of her - so much that I nearly rang you!

My fitness let her down... I best step up a gear!! 

Webinar TONIGHT (recording available for a month if you buy now)

Fenzi Dog Sports Academy: Injury prevention in the active dog: warmups and cooldowns

https://www.fenzidogsportsacademy.com/self-study/webinars

Save the Date 

for an adventure workshop in the North York Moors: Sunday 31st March (afternoon)

Introduction to Canicross workshop Sun 10 March

Hot weather, canicross and Dalby race dates (CHANGED)

The organisers of the Dalby Canicross races have announced a change of dates which means the June race has moved to April - this is really good news because with the recent weather trends there's a real risk of overheating dogs with serious consequences.

These are now the confirmed dates and distances:
17th February 2019 - 5k
7th April 2019 - 7k
8th September 2019 - 5k
3rd November 2019 - 8k
Price: £25 per event
Season Ticket (for all 4 events) - £85

Enter here: https://www.northyorkshiresport.co.uk/events/2019/02/dalby-forest-canicross-1


Dogs, canicross and hot weather

For anyone interested, Anne Carter's team at Nottingham Trent University has been working on heatstroke in dogs with a specific focus on sports and canicross. So far they've completed initial studies on normal versus post-race temperature, and explored the factors that affect the potential for heatstroke.

Some of their main take away findings has been that

"The recommendation to not run a dog if ‘ambient temperature (oC) x humidity (%) >1000’ did not correlate to canine body temperature in any way, so its continued use cannot be recommended for the general pet dog population.

Dog owners need to be aware of the factors that can impact their animal’s exercising body temperature. An unfit, poorly acclimatised, dark coated male dog may be at greater risk of heatstroke running in late autumn, than a pale coated, female dog in regular training, running in warmer conditions."

They are now exploring "cooling post-race, effectiveness of cooling methods used and how quickly dogs cool down under different conditions."

What this means for us is that acclimatisation and fitness is really important - while we can't change our dog's coat colour we absolutely can help them to adjust to the changes in temperature.

I think this also suggests that we might make quite different decisions on racing in early versus later summer, when the dogs may have had more time to acclimatise.

I personally do generally continue to run during the summer BUT it's often very early in the morning and always at a slower ultra-shuffle pace rather than a fast 5k speed.

Happy running folks, and I’ll see you soon! 

Morag and the #dreamteam, #beautyandthebeast 
 

Be More Active With Your Dog – Weekly Events*

Sunday CaniRun Social 8.30am weekly (FREE)

Currently we’re at Allerthorpe Woods to avoid the worst of the mud. Join us for a 5k loop over varied terrain, and the option to run an extra loop for bonus fun at the end!
Download directions, route map and gpx file here
 

Weekly Canicross Classes (start Tues 15th Jan at 7pm) 

What could be more fun than running in the mud, at night, with a headtorch – right? Especially when you’ve got expert coaching and skill building sessions too.
Join us for the whole block (10 classes for price of 9) or just book individual weeks.
Full information, class locations and booking links here
 

Bodywork & Relaxation Classes (start Wed 23rd January, 6.30pm)

Learn how to help your dog relax even in the most exciting situations using massage and bodywork plus some extra techniques. Banish the start line anxiety, or excited screaming, and save that energy for the race!

• If you’ve attended anything with us before, grab your place and attend with your dog
• Not sure your dog will cope, but want to learn anyway? Sign up for a spectator place and practice on the other dogs in class.

Questions? Email me! morag @ wellconnectedcanine.co.uk

 

Be More Active With Your Dog - Workshops 

Sunday 27th January Introduction to Canicross (half-day workshop) 

Expert kit fitting, basic skills tuition and a short guided run to put it all into practice!
Wigginton near York 

Book Intro Workshop

Sunday 27th January Improvers Canicross Workshop (half day) 

Survive running downhill with your dog, and learn to love those ascents, more advanced skills and lots of personal coaching for your running technique
Welburn, nr Castle Howard 

Book Improver Workshop

 

Be More Active With Your Dog – Races*

Dalby Canicross – Forestry Commission 
A series of 4 races have been announced for 2019 and you can find more details here: https://www.northyorkshiresport.co.uk/events/2019/02/dalby-forest-canicross-1

Running Riot (Skipton) 5k Race 14 April 2019 
Several of us attended last year and it was a great experience. While the field margins were tricky for novice dogs, the event was well organised and the water crossing added some extra excitement too. More information here: https://www.sueryder.org/support-us/fundraise/events/running-riot-canicross-skipton-2019 

Tail Trails Events (Lake District) 
Another new series of events aimed at people running with their dogs but this isn’t quite a canicross focused event yet. Worth checking out if you fancy a trip over
First one is 27 January 2019, and more to follow. https://www.tailtrails.org.uk/ 
 

Other places to find out about races 

Canicross Events FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/165126597013777/

K9TrailTime event listings: https://www.k9trailtime.com/information/national-canicross-events 

*if you know of any events that might be of interest to the canicross community PLEASE do email or message me the details and I will add them in!

How are you (still) running up those hills?

It’s a fair question.

For a number of years my running strategy has involved running on the flat and downhill sections, but always walking the hills.

So it came as a shock to my friends (and me!) when I was comfortably able to run all but one of the uphills in the Goathland 10K (Hardmoors) race on 10th November. And I still had plenty in my legs for the long downhill off the moors too.

I’ve wanted to feel able to run up hills for years, it’s been a marker for measuring my fitness. But it’s felt like a very distant goal!

And since my preferred distance is ultra (more than a marathon) running uphill isn’t often encouraged…

So what changed?

The Laird Factor + a change in training

I often say that canicross can be so much more than just going for a run with your dogs. When we get it right, there’s a feeling of flow between human and canine – you feed off each other’s energy and can predict where to put your feet/paws, and when to change speed.

That glorious in-sync feeling as you both lean slightly to take a sharp corner on the trail, legs extending and eating up the ground.

But what I’m finding now is that Laird is just powerful enough to give me a real lift when we’re running together. And Freya works beautifully beside him adding her strength plus a good understanding of the game (she deals with the navigation!).

Even the amazing Beauty & Beast don’t give me that much help running up hill (apart from making me feel guilty if I stop), but they are saving my strength on the flat and down hill sections, leaving me with more to power up those hills!

So, I need to practice running hill repeats especially on my own.

We need to practice consistent steady pulling especially on the flat. Consistent pulling is harder than you might think, and takes training. When your dog is rushing ahead then lagging behind it interrupts your running pace, and is much harder on your body.

Want to experience the ultimate runners’ high with your dog?

We have just 2 spaces left on the Introduction to Canicross Workshop, and 3 spaces left on the Improvers Workshop (Sun 25^th November)

Or if you can grab an evening canicross class and join in the fun – you need to have done a little canicross previously and have a head torch too.

Happy Running!

Morag

Run More With Your Dog – Events Diary 

Tuesday 7pm Canicross Class 

Weekly classes in small groups working on essential skills at various locations around York.
You can still book individual classes - don't miss out on the fun of running in the dark and the mud!

Grab a Tues Cani Class

If you need to borrow kit PLEASE let us know in advance so we have everything with us.

Week	Date	Location (postcode)	Skills focus
Week 1	16th Oct	Heslington YO10 5EW	basics & running in the dark
Week 2	23rd Oct	Wheldrake Woods YO19 6BG	trail technique & passing
Week 3	30th Oct	Huntington YO32 9RE	consistent pulling
Week 4	6th Nov	Welburn Woods YO60 7ED	hill techniques
Week 5	13th Nov	Knavesmire YO23 1EX	race protocols, start line and sprints
Week 6	20th Nov	Heslington YO10 5EW	Commands, directions
Week 7	27th Nov	Wheldrake Woods YO19 6BG	Technique and directions on narrow trails
Week 8	4th Dec	Huntington YO32 9RE	Pace changes and building speed
Week 9	11th Dec	Clifton Ings (Rawcliffe Bar Park & Ride) YO30 5XZ	Consistency and pacing
Week 10	18th Dec	Knavesmire YO23 1EX	Mock race!

Sunday 8.30am CaniRun Social (Beningbrough Hall) 

Starts Sunday 2nd December, find out all about it on our Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/140034202734285/
This isn’t a formal event, no money needed, just the chance to run regularly and grab a coffee afterwards.
You must have suitable kit and be capable of a 5k run (walking is allowed!).

Introduction to Canicross (half day workshop) Sun 25th November 

Want to really enjoy running with your dog?
Come and learn the essential skills PLUS individual kit fitting and testing

Canicross Improvers Skills Session (half day workshop) Sun 25th November 

Want to boost your teamwork?
Polish your start line skills?
Sort out your overtaking?

Something furry this way came – the prey drive challenge

The trail feels good under your feet.

Your dog is pulling steadily out front, and that extra lift through the waist belt is spurring you on.

Dodging the overhanging branch.

Skipping over the roots and running smoothly down the path.

And then disaster strikes......

Whether it’s an errant squirrel on the tree next to you, or the grouse that flew up out of the bushes.

Maybe it was the sheep you hadn’t spotted by the side of the fence. Or the rabbit that just ran down the path in front of you.

Suddenly that steady running partner is trying to drag you off your feet. 

If you’re lucky, they’re pulling along the track. 

But usually your dog just dived off the path into the undergrowth, and is making a break for hunting freedom.

Canicross dogs generally like running. And they usually like chasing stuff too – even if that’s just another canicross team.

Which is great, until your running partner loses their brain to BUNNEEEEEEEES!!!

Our key strategy is to work hard on teaching our dogs a command to keep going past the distraction AND channelling all that frustrated prey drive energy into going forwards. 

The words you choose really don’t matter, the important bit is helping your dog understand that when in running kit, there’s no chance of chasing the prey. So running faster forwards is a better option.

Unexpected benefits include sprint finishes at most of the Hardmoors races (there’s nearly always sheep in the village at the end) – but it’s totally worth it!

I’m working hard on this with Laird (the Big Yin) right now, because as a pointer he does like to stop dead and well, point. This is almost as dangerous as just lunging after the prey.

If you want to get hands-on coaching to improve your teamwork, and teach your dog to ignore the bunnies on your runs, why not sign up for one of our workshops or the NEW October classes.  All the information is below!

Saturday 22^nd September (York)

• 10am Introduction to Canicross – dedicated individual kit fitting and checking, teaching the basic skills and learning to work as a team. Ideal for dogs 1 year and older, humans do not yet need to be running fast or far.
• Book Intro Workshop

• 2pm Improvers workshop – building your core skills, practicing race starts, passing on the trail and simple drills to build your fitness.
• Book Improver Workshop

Weekly Canicross Classes (York, various locations)

Starting from 7pm Tuesday October 16th, a 10 week course designed to develop your canicross techniques, build on your teamwork and challenge you and your dog in a range of different environments.

• Either book individual sessions OR
• Book all 10 sessions and use this code COMMITEDCANI-X to get one session free!

Pre-requisites: Have completed an Introduction to Canicross workshop.  Participants who have not done so MUST book and attend for week 1

Book Canicross classes

Adventure Challenge

Saturday 13^th October at the Yorkshire Cycle Hub (£120/person & up to 2 dogs)

• 8.30am registration
• Morning – Attend clinic with a max of 4 people, take a coffee break and then swop round
• Navigation Clinic / Canicross Running Clinic
• Lunch
• Afternoon – Find and run the route with your team mate and collect the stamps! You’ll have a choice of two route lengths (short 4ish miles, long 8ish miles)

Book here:
Get Adventurous with Canicross



Happy Running

Morag
UltraCanicrosser, Firewalker, Clinical Animal Behaviourist

Local'ish races

Dalby Canicross  https://www.northyorkshiresport.co.uk/events/tags/Dogs
Sunday 16th September

CaniX races http://www.canix.co.uk/index.shtml

Saturday, September 22  Hamsterley Forest CaniX

Sunday, September 23 Hamsterley Forest CaniX

K9 Karnage 5K  https://www.facebook.com/events/269959073829460/
Sunday 7th October

Saving Yorkshires Dogs 5k Tough Mutter – 5 k obstacle walk/run with option to take your dog. Not a canicross event but canicrossers are welcome.

Sunday 14^th October, Camp Hill, Bedale.

Application - email julie.hart@sydrescue.org.uk

Dalby Canicross  https://www.northyorkshiresport.co.uk/events/tags/Dogs

Sunday 28th October

*if you know of any more events please let us know and we'd be happy to promote them!