Canicross Conversations

 
In this episode of Canicross Conversations, Louise and Michelle welcome Tony Leonard of Shoes to talk about the brand’s growing connection with the canicross community.
 
Tony shares his journey from competitive running to sports‑industry marketing and shoe development, explaining how VJ evolved from orienteering and fell shoes, into making models that canicrossers are now choosing. The discussion covers the technical details behind their designs — from studs and heel‑profiles to materials like butyl rubber and Schoeller Keprotec® uppers — and how this connects with the demands of running with dogs across muddy, mixed terrain.
 
Tony helps differentiate between the current line‑up (the MAXx 2, Ultra 3 and IRock 4) and previews a new “home to hill” model coming soon. He touches on sizing guidance, gender/fit considerations, how they are entering the canicross market, and how input from the community is shaping future development. Listeners are encouraged to try shoes with local retailers and feed back their experiences, as VJ hopes to eventually make a specific canicross‑shoe.
 
It's clear that for canicross runners — navigating slippery fields, wet rock and dog‑pull dynamics — the right footwear matters.
Whether you’re seasoned or new to canicross, this is a welcome deep‑dive into how one brand is listening to the sport and adapting.
Expect practical advice, product insight and a strong nod to community feedback.
 
Key take‑aways
VJ Sports has moved from orienteering into trail/fell and now canicross‑relevant shoes by focusing on terrain‑specific grip (e.g., butyl rubber outsoles, variable stud lengths).
Fit matters: multiple lasts (foot shapes) plus stud‑length differences (3 mm → 9 mm) mean choosing the right shoe for terrain and individual foot shape is important.
Two contrasting models: a firmer, lower‑profile “race/technical” shoe (e.g., Max) vs a softer, higher‑cushion “longer run” shoe (e.g., Ultra) — both relevant, depending on run style.
Canicrossers often face muddy, mixed‑terrain conditions with a pulling dog, so shoe demands differ from road running; community feedback is driving a bespoke “monster truck” future model for this niche.
Try‑before‑you‑buy remains important, especially with trail/canicross shoes. Online reviews help but foot shape / terrain matter.
Shoe care counts: wash with hot soapy water and air dry (avoid radiators/dryers) to extend lifespan of technical outsoles.
Sizing guidance: VJ is “true to UK size” except one model (MAXx 2) which comes up a half‑size larger — always check empirically.
Timings
1.04 – Introduction: Tony’s background & running history2.00 – Transition into sports industry & VJ entry3.30 – Why VJ is resonating in the canicross / off‑road world4.20 – Grip, studs and terrain: key shoe features6.00 – Material innovation: butyl rubber, uppers, durability7.30 – Sizing, fit and foot shape concerns9.10 – Fit guidance: road/trail crossover, cushioning vs studs11.00 – Canicross entry and why VJ decided to engage the sport13.00 – Current best‑selling models for canicrossers: iRock 4 etc15.10 – Sponsoring the British Sleddog Sports Federation (BSSF) series and community feedback17.00 – Practical shoe care advice and do’s/don’ts18.30 – Potential for future dedicated canicross shoe & how listeners can input20.00 – Final summary & how to contact VJ Sports / locate retailers
 
 
Links 
VJ  Shoes Website
@vjsportsshoes on Instagram
BSSF race series

In this episode, Louise and Michelle are joined by Leasa, who tells us about her two whippets, Barley and Biscuit, as they have discovered the world of canicross over the last 18 months.
 
Leasa used to avoid sport altogether, but a simple Instagram reel introduced her into the warm‑hearted fold of a local canicross club, where encouragement and community helped her to grow not just as a runner, but also as a team with her dogs.
 
Leasa’s story shows that you don’t need to be an athlete to take part; with the right support, a few steps of kit, and a desire to just get out, it’s possible to join in and enjoy the ride.
 
If you’ve ever wondered whether canicross is for you or your dog, this episode is a warm invitation to try something new at your own pace.
 
Timings
00:01:24 – 00:02:03 – Lisa introduces herself, her dogs Barley (3) and Biscuit (2), and how the journey began.
00:02:03 – 00:03:03 – Lisa talking about her mental rut, the Instagram reel, and joining a local canicross club.
00:03:03 – 00:04:08 – Early struggles with Couch‐to‑5K, joining social runs, and how the club helped.
00:04:08 – 00:05:01 – The welcome, supportive culture of the club; no one gets left behind.
00:05:01 – 00:07:00 – How the dogs got into it: Barley’s progression, Biscuit’s natural pull, the feeling of working as a team.
00:07:00 – 00:10:30 – Race stories: first event experience, the joy of finishing, the difference between a “race” and “an event you enjoy”.
00:10:30 – 00:12:11 – Dog behaviours: reactivity, start‑line nerves, and how events accommodate that.
00:12:11 – 00:16:10 – Running with dogs vs running solo: the difference, the benefit of solo sessions, the concept of “easy runs”.
00:16:10 – 00:20:05 – Goals: signed up for 10 K, training together, accepting your pace, moving more and more.
00:20:05 – 00:25:00 – Motivation, how to start: tip to “just do it”, find a local club, support matters.
 
 
Lisa’s Instagram: @run_with_biscuit_and_barley

 
Michelle and Louise are joined by Brigid, a relatively new canicross enthusiast based in Ireland, who shares her journey with her Border Collie, Corvo.
 
Brigid adopted Corvo - her first dog - during lockdown, and soon discovered the demands of a high‑energy collie. She found her way into the canicross community, but then tragedy struck ....
 
Corvo was involved in a serious accident, where his leg was fractured. Brigid and Corvo are currently adapting to rehab and recovery, but they have big goals for when Corvo is recovered. A great lesson in patience, and hope.
 
Timings:
1.10 – introduction to Brigid & Corvo2.34 – adjusting to life with a high‑energy Border Collie4.20 – discovering canicross and joining the club7.30 – starting running habit with dog, kit early stage10.33 – first race experience and commitment12.08 – the accident: how it happened14.00 – immediate response, vet care and concerns16.30 – specialist hospital and rehab plan20.23 – building muscle, controlled rehab with the physio24.00 – keeping Corvo mentally engaged during limited physical activity27.45 – why core strength and strength training matter for dog sport31.05 – habit formation, goal‑setting, moving forward34.43 – Harness the Expert: building core strength37.15 – how Pilates / short sessions fit into busy life41.00 – closing thoughts & how to follow Brigid's journey
 
Useful links
Instagram account: @RunningWithCrows
Canicross Ireland
Stop Walking Your Dog book Podcast episode 108 (March 2024) with Niki French
Membership: Pilates / strength training membership offered by Louise Humphrey

In this episode, Louise and Michelle are joined by Anna Pollard of The Dog House Canine Spa in Leicestershire to explore how best to care for your dog’s coat, especially when you’re into canicross and other active dog sports.
Anna shares her insights from years of grooming experience, explaining why proper maintenance of the coat and skin isn't just cosmetic but a key part of your dog’s wellbeing and performance.
The conversation covers coat types (single vs double coat), grooming routines for active dogs, the role of brushing and bathing, pad and nail care, seasonal changes, and much more.
Whether you’re a seasoned canicrosser or just beginning to run with your dog, this episode offers practical tips to help your canine companion feel and perform at their best — and maybe convert a non‑groomer into a regular brusher! Expect to learn how coat condition affects temperature regulation, how friction from harnesses can lead to matting, and how pad health and nails tie into overall musculoskeletal wellbeing.
Timings
0:00 – Introduction 
1:40 – Why grooming is important for active/canicross dogs
3:15 – How a coat works: insulation, heat regulation
5:45 – Brushing vs clipping: which to choose?
7:50 – Harness friction and matting danger zones
10:00 – Coats types: single vs double vs hybrid
12:30 – What is hand‑stripping and when to consider it
16:15 – How often should you brush and bathe?
20:20 – Choosing shampoos & avoiding human products
22:50 – After muddy runs: rinse or bathe?
24:30 – Nail length, pad health & impact on joints/gait
28:10 – Seasonal coat length and shedding challenges
31:00 – Heating, fleas and indoor environment effects
33:40 – Harness the expert: starting canicross: gear, pace, where to train
37:10 – Closing discussion & guest contact info
40:00 – Outro and call for reviews
Links
The Dog House Canine Spa website thedoghouseleicester.co.uk
Instagram: @thedoghouse_spa
Facebook: The Dog House Canine Spa

In this episode, Michelle and Louise chat with Ray, a canicross enthusiast with a pack of rescue dogs. Ray shares her journey from returning to the UK after seven years abroad, feeling isolated and looking for a way to connect socially and physically. She found the sport of canicross through her local club (Tees Valley Canicross), which offered both community and motivation.
 
She gives a warm, honest account of the challenges of running with Cloud, who is a mixed‑breed street dog rescue from China. She also shares how she is building up a new puppy‑rescue, Nomad from Cyprus, to join the team.
 
Ray covers the realities of canine health, the importance of harness and gear fit, inclusive club culture, and advice for people with reactive dogs. She encourages anyone who thinks “I’m not a runner” to still give canicross a try, highlighting that the real reward is the bond with the dog and the community around it.
 
 
Timings
00:00 – 02:00 ­ Introduction & Ray’s background
02:00 – 05:00 ­ Meet Ray’s dogs: Cloud, Nomad, older dogs
05:00 – 08:00 ­ Training and challenges with Nomad (harness anxiety, grass obsession)
08:00 – 11:00 ­ First races, social aspect of the club
11:00 – 14:00 ­ Why Ray doesn’t consider herself a “runner” & what changed post‑COVID
14:00 – 18:00 ­ Dog health story (dehydration, vertigo) and hydration lesson
18:00 – 22:00 ­ Season goals, 10K aim, Cloud’s future, balancing veteran dog
22:00 – 27:00 ­ Advice for new canicrossers: non‑runners, reactive dogs, using muzzles, equipment tips
27:00 – 30:00 ­ Harness The Expert: How to strengthen Achilles in pain from a pulling dog
30:00 – 31:00 ­ Final reflections & how to follow Ray (Instagram Fluffy Multipack)

Michelle and Louise chat to sports dietitian and author Renee McGregor about how to optimise fuelling across life stages - especially during perimenopause and after menopause - while also unpacking RED‑S, carbohydrate myths, and sensible supplement use.
 
Renee acknowledges how little conversation there has historically been about female hormonal transitions, and how women often experience a “wobbliness” in their energy, mood, and performance as hormones fluctuate unpredictably. She emphasises that menopause (and the years leading up to it) needn’t be a downhill spiral: “there’s a lot of women [who] feel they’ve reached their potential from an athletic point of view.” Key strategies she shares include replacing some cardio with strength-based work, choosing nutrient-dense whole foods (rather than rigid restriction), and listening to your body.
 
The trio discuss RED‑S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport), explaining that under‑fuelling (not eating enough to support both training and basic body function) can manifest via hormonal disruption, injury, digestive issues, mood or sleep disturbances, and stagnation in performance. Renee stresses that RED‑S affects recreational athletes too, not just elites.
 
On carbohydrates being demonised, Renee argues they are crucial: “Carbs per se are not bad … they provide your muscles with the energy you need.”
 
Finally, Michelle asks about supplements. Renee advises vitamin D (especially through UK winters), and checking iron/B12 when clinically indicated, but otherwise focusing on whole foods rather than a “pile of supplements.”
 
 
 
Links
Renee McGregor’s latest book Fuel for Thought
reneemcgregor.com
Renee’s Instagram: @r_mcgregor
Renee’s Substack newsletter: The Fuel Line

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to Lauren.
 
Lauren recounts how her 'failed' sheepdog Pip came into her life at 13 months old, having never truly bonded with farm work, and how the two forged an extraordinary connection in a family environment. From tentative first nights indoors, to running together in canicross, Lauren shares how this strong bond became a lifeline during a difficult season in her life. She opens up about losing her father to suicide, stepping back from her former high‑pressure work, and finding solace, purpose and community through running with Pip.
 
Along the way, she discovered a new passion, launched Me and My Dog Running Club, creating personalised apparel. A heart-warming episode, showing that healing and connection can take unexpected and wonderful forms.
 
We also chat about warm ups in our new feature Harness the Expert
 
Timings
0.00 – introduction & backstory: meeting Pip
3.50 – Pip’s personality, calm indoors vs energetic outdoors
5.20 – herding instinct & family dynamics on walks
7.00 – settling into house life, first nights indoors
9.00 – impact on child allergies & kids bonding with dog
10.30 – discovering canicross & first parkrun experience
13.00 – joining clubs, recce runs, community
16.00 – learning about kit, harness choices
18.00 – Pip’s running style, working as a team
20.30 – running without Pip, ultra training decisions
24.00 – doing the 50K ultra with Into Ultra support
28.30 – goals together: longer distances, exploring events
32.00 – how canicross changed Lauren’s life after loss
36.00 – starting Me & My Dog Running Club and personalised apparel
40.30 – Harness The Expert: How to warm up (you + dog) for a club run
45.00 – closing, social handles & where to find Lauren online
Links & social
Me and My Dog Running Club on Instagram
Me and My Dog Running Club on Facebook
Lauren’s personalised apparel website
Into Ultra

In today's canicross story, we chat to Becky about how she tried canicross after her working dogs didn't really enjoy gundog training, and now she's hooked!
Becky chats to us about how she started out with free running, experimenting with gundog training tools (like whistle recall), and the moment she realised what canicross was all about.
She reflects on how both her dogs — Lexi the cautious Vizsla and Bronson the bold GSP — have adapted differently, and shares insights on training, strength work, confidence building, and managing your body as you join the sport. This episode is ideal for anyone curious about stepping into canicross (or already doing it) who wants a relatable story, practical tips, and encouragement to take that first tethered run.
 
 
Topics & timings
00:00:35 – Becky introduces herself, Lexi & Bronson
00:03:47 – complementing personalities of two working dogs
00:04:24 – attempt at gundog training and use of whistle
00:06:20 – Becky’s transition from CrossFit to biking to running
00:07:57 – first real canicross experience at Connect & Paws
00:09:10 – advice for beginners: take the first step
00:14:53 – changes seen in Lexi and Bronson from canicross
00:17:56 – recap of Becky’s recent Trail Dog 5K with obstacles
00:22:45 – Becky’s race plans and strategy with Lexi/Bronson
00:28:23 – preparing body: strength, stretching, cadence
00:32:33 – longevity in canicross, dealing with niggles
00:37:50 – balancing training vs resting days
00:38:56 – Becky teases a new project
Follow Becky's beautiful Instagram page @lexi_and_bronson

In this insightful episode of Canicross Conversations, hosts Michelle and Louise are joined by Lucy Millar, founder of Rùn Dog Food, and Dr Jacqueline Boyd, an animal scientist and canine nutrition consultant. Together, they delve into the world of performance nutrition for active dogs, demystifying cold-pressed food, fuelling strategies, and how to navigate the myths of pet nutrition.
 
Lucy shares her journey from dog trainer to dog food entrepreneur, driven by her passion for transparency in the pet food industry.
 
Dr Boyd brings her scientific expertise to explore what dogs really need to thrive in sports like canicross, agility and working gundog roles. They cover everything from how to do an energy audit for your dog, to how joint health and digestion change with age, and why not all dogs benefit from simply eating more food.
 
You’ll come away with practical advice and a better understanding of how to support your dog’s performance and recovery.
 
Whether you're feeding raw, kibble, or cold-pressed, this episode encourages a balanced, informed approach.
 
Plus, Lucy shares exciting insights into what’s next for the Rùn brand.
 
Topics and timings1.10 – why Lucy started Rùn Dog Food4.30 – cold-pressed vs traditional kibble8.45 – Jacqueline’s journey into canine nutrition12.30 – do dogs need snacks like energy bars?18.00 – energy bars for performance and recovery25.15 – tailoring food quantity to activity levels32.00 – how age affects digestion and nutrition40.20 – feeding routines and fuelling strategies48.10 – coprophagia and scavenging explained53.00 – supplements, probiotics and joint support59.30 – what’s next for Rùn Dog Food
 
Resources mentioned
Rùn Dog Food website: https://rundogfood.com Use CONVERSATIONS10 for 10% off
Instagram: @rundogfood
Dr Jacqueline Boyd: Facebook and @dogtorboyd on Instagram
CROWOOD10 provides 10% discount off Dr Boyd's books -  Canine Nutrition and Feeding AND The Spaniel Survival Guide
Dr Boyd's Nutrition Consultancy booking form
Energy audit equations: basic ones are found on pages 54 and 55 of  https://europeanpetfood.org/self-regulation/nutritional-guidelines/ and this is also a hugely useful resource recommended by Dr Boyd.

In today's canicross story, we chat to Becky about how she tried canicross after her working dogs didn't really enjoy gundog training, and now she's hooked!
Becky chats to us about how she started out with free running, experimenting with gundog training tools (like whistle recall), and the moment she realised what canicross was all about.
She reflects on how both her dogs — Lexi the cautious Vizsla and Bronson the bold GSP — have adapted differently, and shares insights on training, strength work, confidence building, and managing your body as you join the sport. This episode is ideal for anyone curious about stepping into canicross (or already doing it) who wants a relatable story, practical tips, and encouragement to take that first tethered run.
 
 
Topics & timings
00:00:35 – Becky introduces herself, Lexi & Bronson
00:03:47 – complementing personalities of two working dogs
00:04:24 – attempt at gundog training and use of whistle
00:06:20 – Becky’s transition from CrossFit to biking to running
00:07:57 – first real canicross experience at Connect & Paws
00:09:10 – advice for beginners: take the first step
00:14:53 – changes seen in Lexi and Bronson from canicross
00:17:56 – recap of Becky’s recent Trail Dog 5K with obstacles
00:22:45 – Becky’s race plans and strategy with Lexi/Bronson
00:28:23 – preparing body: strength, stretching, cadence
00:32:33 – longevity in canicross, dealing with niggles
00:37:50 – balancing training vs resting days
00:38:56 – Becky teases a new project
Follow Becky's beautiful Instagram page @lexi_and_bronson