Dog Trail is a sport which, as the name suggests, is essentially Trail Running with your dog. Your dog wears a specific type of harness to which a bungee line is attached and this then clips on to your running belt.
How is it different from Canicross?
The differences between Dog Trail and Canicross are the length of the running course, which is longer in Dog Trail, higher gradients, and the terrain, which is mountainous and so more uneven. Canicross courses are usually around 3-5 km in length, the terrain is usually grassy and flat with few, or no, hills and the main focus is on speed. Dog Trail courses range in length from 8 to 20 km; the terrain is mountainous so it can be rocky, and there can be some steep gradients with differences in altitude of up to 1000m, and the focus is on endurance. Obviously the duration of the two disciplines also varies greatly: a Canicross race averages around 10 or 20 minutes, while Dog Trail races can last from around 40 minutes to more than 2 hours.
In both sports there needs to be a good relationship and physical compatibility between dog and runner, and the dog needs to be trained to a certain level. In Dog Trail the correct handling and control of the dog is even more vital given that the courses, particularly when moving downhill, are far more complex.
Both sports welcome all dogs who have been vaccinated and microchipped. Of course, though, just as we humans need to train for any sporting competition, our dogs also need to undergo gradual training tailored to these activities.
What type of training is involved?
For dogs, just like for humans, the aim is to boost their aerobic capacity through training activities such as running off the lead or going on long hikes and treks. The greater the duration and distance of these training sessions, the more suited they become to Dog Trail rather than Canicross. Both sports demand speed training so doing some bikejoring can help stimulate and encourage your dog. For strength training you might want to do some scooterjoring, or some training sessions involving steeper gradients. The key factor in successful training for both sports is putting in the work and the best training is that which most closely emulates the distance, terrain and gradients which you’ll be facing in competitions.
What type of equipment do I need for Dog Trail and Canicross?
You’ll need trail running shoes for both sports. For Canicross you’ll want a lightweight pair for speed, while for Dog Trail you’ll need a sturdier pair to give your feet more protection. Clothing is similar for both sports, often shorts and t-shirt, but for Dog Trail you’ll also need a backpack for carrying water and snacks, for both human and dog, as well as any other items required by the race organizers (e.g. whistle, emergency blanket, mobile phone, waterproofs etc).
Nutrition and hydration
Both humans and dogs need to tailor their nutrition according to the type and duration of the race they are taking part in e.g. sprints or endurance courses.
Whichever activity you are doing, hydration is essential to ensure peak performance so it can be a good idea to get your dog to drink up to an hour and a half before the race starts, you can also add in flavourings to encourage them or add specific supplements.
Given the long distances involved in Dog Trail events, there are water stops along the route where your dog can drink but it is also a good idea to carry a water bowl and extra water with you just in case your dog needs to drink at any other point along the course.
Is there a difference in the format of races?
There’s a significant difference in how these races start: in Canicross the start is normally staggered, with each team starting separately, while in Dog Trail everyone in the same category tends to start at the same time as a group.
If you’re just starting out in Dog Trail, then we recommend you wait for the more experienced competitors to move off before you start running as the initial seconds of the race can be confusing and unsettling for your dog.
There are also an increasing number of trail running races which have begun to introduce a Dog Trail category making traditional running events more dog friendly.
Dog Trail or Canicross? Which is right for you?
You need to consider a few factors including: your level of fitness, your breed of dog (some breeds are more suited for speed while others are more suited to endurance) and, of course, your dog’s fitness level. It may well be that as a team there isn’t necessarily a clear favourite between the two, so you just need to get out on the trails and try both for yourself, and never be afraid to ask for advice from qualified coaches.
Canicross and Dog Trail are sports in their own right but they are also great fun, and an amazing way to strengthen the bond between you and your dog.
Written by
Mattia Minori
Dog Trail and Canicross champion