Canicross Conversations

In this episode of Canicross Conversations, Louise and Michelle are joined by Ed Warner, former chair of UK Athletics, passionate sports advocate, and now an enthusiastic canicross convert. Ed shares the story of how a desire to stay fit for a family skiing trip led him into the world of running, and eventually to trail adventures with his energetic standard poodle, Trixie.
 
Ed shares with us his entertaining take on learning to canicross: from the early days of training with Trixie, to racing experiences full of surprises, and even some kit confessions. 
 
"You think poodles are just fluffy? Mine runs like the wind."
 
Topics and timings
 
1.10 – how Ed started running (hint: it began with skiing)3.30 – marathons, ultras, and getting hooked on running6.00 – Ed's journey into canicross and his first experiences10.40 – the surprising athleticism of standard poodles15.00 – training Trixie and early racing stories18.45 – getting to grips with Canicross commands21.30 – kit choices and why your waist belt matters26.00 – building a stronger bond through Canicross28.40 – training volume and respecting your dog’s limits32.10 – racing plans, ambition, and the fun of chasing goals
 
Resources mentioned
CX Run Club Race Calendar: https://www.cxruncalendar.com
DogFit harnesses: https://dogfit.co.uk
Episode 20 on parkrun changes to rules for dogs
Canicross Midlands: https://www.canicrossmidlands.co.uk
British Sleddog Sports Federation (BSSF): https://www.thebssf.org.uk
 

Today, Louise chats to Kerry Burridge about how she got into canicross with her two lurchers, Willow and Hazel, and how they reacted when there was a new pup introduced to the pack who isn't a Lurcher.
@thelazylurchers

In this episode, Michelle and Louise chat to Sarah about discovering the joy of canicross with her rescue dog Jasper. This is a feel-good episode that reminds us why we love the sport and the community so much.
Follow @adventuredog.jasper on Instagram

In this episode of Canicross Conversations, Michelle and Louise chat to Jo from Dorwest, a leading natural pet supplement company with a deep history in herbal care.
Jo shares the Dorwest journey, how their products support active dogs, and offers practical, evidence-based advice on keeping your canicross companion healthy.
Listeners will gain insights into physical demands on dogs, early signs of stress or overuse, and what to do when your dog needs recovery support especially in peak mileage seasons. From mobility to calming aids, and even how to manage gut issues during race days, Jo’s expertise offers a holistic look at dog welfare in sport. You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at how Dorwest sources ingredients, works with vets, and develops products based on real-world feedback from working and sporting dogs.
Whether you’re new to canicross or training at a high level, this conversation is packed with useful tips to help your dog thrive on and off the trails.
1.10 – the Dorwest story and Jo’s background5.50 – what canicross dogs need: joints, gut, stress & more11.40 – key products for active dogs: mobility, recovery, calming19.05 – common problems at races and how to support your dog26.15 – inside Dorwest: sourcing, safety, vet testing31.30 – Jo’s top 3 tips for dog wellbeing
@dorwestherbs on Instagram & Facebook
For 10% off at dorwest.com use code CANICROSS10

In this episode, Michelle and Louse chat to Jamie Stevenson, with a focus on the ICF World Championships last month, and his role in the BSSF as monosports rep. 
Listen for behind‑the‑scenes insight into how the International Canicross Federation (ICF) World Championships work — from selection via the British Sleddog Sports Federation (BSSF), to the challenges of visas, travel, and dog‑friendly logistics across Europe. Jamie reflects on the highs and challenges of international competition — including the rush of a mass‑start, the thrill of representing Britain, and the necessary balance between competitive drive, dog welfare, and everyday life.
We also hear live interviews with other British athletes gathered at the ICF World Championships by the BSSF.
NB: Please note that Jamie refers to Seb Coe heading up British Orienteering, when he meant to say Steve Cram
 
Links:
 
ICF - https://canicross.international/
BSSF - https://thebssf.org.uk/
 

 
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)