Cani cross

Cani cross is the term used to describe the sport of cross country running with dogs. Originated in Europe as off-season training for the mushing (sledding) community, it has become popular as a stand-alone sport all over Europe, especially in the UK. Cani cross is closely related to skijoring, where participants ski rather than run.

Usually cani cross is run with one or two dogs, attached to the runner. The human typically wears a waist belt, the dog a harness, and the two are joined by a bungee cord or elasticated line that reduces shock to both human and dog when the dog pulls.

Originally cani cross dogs were of sledding or spitz types such as the husky or malamute but now all breeds have begun taking part from small terrier breeds to larger breeds such as rottweilers and standard poodles. Not only can all breeds run but people of all ages and abilities can take part. Including children and the disabled such as the visually impaired. Although it should be said before you begin cani cross research your breed and make sure it is suitable for them. Some breeds are very well suited to not only running but running at steady pace over a long distance. Cani cross is now not only a great way to keep fit, it encourages people and their dogs to take part in outdoor activity and meet other like minded individuals.

Cani cross is not considered a summer activity due to the heat and the welfare of both dog and runner. Although you can cani cross all year round if you run either early morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler.

Cani cross events

Many sledding events now include cani cross as part of the competition and cani cross events are held all over Europe.

In March 2008 CaniX UK ran the first ever cani cross event at Crufts, the largest dog show held in the UK. Over 100 runners and their dogs took part in the event. The ladies section was won by a lady running an Inuit Dog (see Northern Inuit).

Distances vary, with events held to cover distances from a mile up to 28 miles or more!

External links

* [http://www.canix.co.uk/ CaniX UK - official website, CaniX membership, CaniX events calendar, UK Team, CaniX running and dog gear]
* [http://www.canicross.org.uk/ Cani Cross Trail Runners - Organisers of cani cross events]
* [http://www.skijoring.com/ Skijoring resources and information]
* [http://www.snowpawstore.co.uk/ Snowpaw Store - Cani cross, skijoring and other sledding equipment resource]
* [http://www.aknak9.com/ Akna K9 Academy Dog Training including cani cross running group (Trainer of womens Crufts winner)]