Canicross Conversations

Louise and Michelle chat to BBC newsreader and runner Sophie Raworth about her first canicross race with her cavapoo Luna. Sophie's reveals how running with Luna has added a new dimension to her life, blending her love for running with the joy of being active with her dog, Luna. For Sophie, running with Luna has become a part of her daily routine, fitting seamlessly into her busy life and marathon training. “I run with the dog,” she explained. “I’m in charge of walking the dog in the morning, so I run with the dog. I got up this morning at 6 to go to the gym at 6:30, so I did that first thing. I’m running home tonight... I’ve got to run 10K today, and I’ve forgotten to do that. So I will run home.” Sophie's first canicross race with Luna was a memorable experience. They participated in a 10K race, which took place in Dorking, on a day marked by torrential rain. Luna, who had been freshly groomed, ended up covered in mud, but that didn’t dampen their spirits. Sophie initially worried about whether Luna should wear a coat during the race, but ultimately decided to remove it just before the start. Despite these concerns, both Sophie and Luna enjoyed the race immensely. Luna kept Sophie motivated, pulling her along the muddy course, and they successfully completed the race together. To top it off, Luna even received her own medal. She tells us how rewarding this simple act of running with her dog is: “It’s one of the most rewarding things that I’ve done in my life. I love it. I absolutely love it. And I love that. I’m so glad I discovered it, even though it was later in life.” Sophie’s story is a testament to how canicross can inspire people, regardless of age, to start something new and discover the unexpected joys that come with it.

Louise and Michelle interview Reece Maltby about canicrossing with a small dog breed

Chloe discovered canicross by accident when she was competing in agility at a dog show and was asked to take part in a canicross taster session - she soon discovered a talent for racing and a love of mud and is currently ranked 4th in Great Britain. Louise and Michelle chat to Chloe about her training, and her goals for the future.

In this episode of Canicross Conversations, the spotlight is on a crucial topic that many dog owners face: understanding and supporting anxious and reactive dogs. The episode features Sarah, the founder of the "Dogs in Yellow" initiative, who shares insights into her work and the importance of raising awareness for dogs that need a little extra space. Sarah's journey began with her own dog, Bella, who displayed signs of anxiety and reactivity when interacting with other dogs and people. Recognizing the need for a way to communicate Bella's needs to others, Sarah came up with the idea of using a yellow ribbon or bandana as a signal that a dog requires space. As she explains: "The yellow ribbon or bandana is a universal symbol that signifies a dog needs some space or is anxious. It's a simple yet effective way to communicate without words." This initiative has gained momentum, with more dog owners embracing the concept and using it to advocate for their pets. Challenges Faced by Anxious and Reactive Dogs Anxious and reactive dogs face numerous challenges in their daily lives, from feeling overwhelmed in busy environments to struggling with social interactions. Sarah emphasizes the importance of understanding these challenges. By raising awareness and promoting empathy towards anxious and reactive dogs, we can create a more inclusive and understanding community for both dogs and their owners. Yellow Space Zones: A Safe Haven for Dogs One innovative solution that Sarah has introduced is the concept of "yellow space zones" at dog shows and events. These designated areas provide a calm and safe space for dogs and their owners to relax and recharge, away from the hustle and bustle of the event. Sarah shares her excitement about this new initiative, saying, "The idea is really exciting. It gives people a little bit of confidence to go out and try attending a dog show, knowing that there's a yellow space zone where their dog can feel safe and comfortable." The Importance of Mental Stimulation for Dogs Beyond physical exercise, dogs also benefit greatly from mental stimulation. Sarah highlights the importance of engaging dogs in activities that challenge their minds and keep them entertained, such as canicross and enrichment games. She shares, "Our dogs are bright, intelligent creatures. Canicross is a great activity that provides both physical and mental stimulation for them." By incorporating these activities into their daily routines, we can help reduce anxiety and improve the overall well-being of our furry friends. The Future of the Dogs in Yellow Initiative Looking ahead, Sarah hopes to see the Dogs in Yellow initiative gain even more support from trainers, behaviourists, and dog owners alike. She expresses her desire to see the yellow ribbon incorporated into training classes and socialization activities, stating, "The more you see it, the more you want it. That's how I feel. It would be really good to see the yellow involved in classes and things like that a lot more." By continuing to raise awareness and promote the yellow ribbon symbol, we can create a safer and more understanding environment for all dogs. Understanding and supporting anxious and reactive dogs is crucial for creating a harmonious and inclusive community of dog owners. Through initiatives like Dogs in Yellow and the introduction of yellow space zones, Sarah is paving the way for a more empathetic and understanding approach to dog ownership. By raising awareness, promoting mental stimulation, and advocating for the needs of anxious and reactive dogs, we can all play a part in creating a safer and happier environment for our furry friends. So, let's embrace the yellow ribbon symbol, show our support, and make a difference in the lives of anxious and reactive dogs everywhere. Where to Find More Information If you're interested in learning more about Sarah's work with the Dogs in Yellow initiative or want to follow her journey, you can visit her website at myanxiousdog.co.uk or follow her on Instagram and Facebook at MyAnxiousDog.

Michelle has a frank conversation with author and runner Rachel Ann Cullen about running for mental health, body image, strength training, challenging oneself, owning a dog (who doesn't run), and writing books.

Back in October 2021, Louise and Michelle chatted to journalist Lily Canter about her experience of borrowing Pickle to try canicross (Episode 5). In this episode we find out how she's adjusting to life - and canicross - with her own dog, Zippy. If you have enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, and leave us a review. You can find Lily on X/Twitter @lilycanter and Instagram @lilycanter

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to dog trainer Niki French about her book, Stop Walking Your Dog. Niki works with a lot of nervous and reactive dogs, and her training philosophy is to stop doing those things that can be stressful to your dog until you can learn how to overcome them with patience and training. It's a radical approach that goes beyond what humans feel conditioned to do with their dogs, and Niki's interview is well worth a listen, as she gears up for #DontWalkYourDogDay on 2nd April, and gives listeners plenty of tips on how to provide brilliant mental and physical stimulation without going through your front door. We also ask her what she thinks of canicross ... Find out more about Niki and the awareness day here: https://puptalk.co.uk/

Today, Louise and guests give a rundown of all the action at Crufts over the past weekend

Louise and Michelle chat to Kate Percy, a nutritionist with three best-selling cookbooks who helps people discover that magic link between what you eat, good energy, vitality and happiness. Lots of great information in this episode for runners, those experiencing menopause, and those finding cooking for a family challenging! We also want to know: does your dog eat a healthier diet than you?! https://www.katepercys.com/

In this heart-warming episode, Louise and Michelle find out more about ultra-runner Allie and her rescue dog, Pickle, and her new book, There Is No Wall. Allie Bailey is an ultrarunner, coach, speaker and podcaster who has run in some of the most extreme places in the world. She was the first woman to run 100 miles across frozen Lake Khövsgöl in Mongolia and to run the full length of the Panama Canal. She has crossed the inhospitable Namib Desert three times, run the length of the Outer Hebrides and completed a 1,000-mile off-road version of the classic Land’s End to John o’Groats route in just thirty days. Allie has finished over 200 marathons and ultramarathons all over the world, but the most remarkable thing about all of these achievements is that she accomplished most of them while battling depression and alcoholism. Although running ultimately became the vehicle that helped buy Allie the time to recover from a number of severe mental health breakdowns, it did not save her. In fact, there were times when it made her battle all the more difficult. After a seismic mental health crisis in 2021, Allie finally admitted to herself and those around her that she was an alcoholic and started her recovery. She left behind a dream career with major record labels and adventure companies and now works as a coach with a broad range of runners and endurance athletes, helping them unlock their full potential. In 2022, she was named as one of the most inspiring female adventurers in the UK by the Guardian, and she has appeared on numerous mainstream TV programmes including The One Show and Lorraine. She lives in Yorkshire with her rescue dog, Pickle.

Today's planned guest has lost her voice, so Louise and Michelle chat about the one thing that is missing from many runners' training: accountability! Could accountability be the one thing that takes your running to the next level?

Louise and Michelle chat to veterinary nurse Beth Morris all about her love of canicross and agility with her 3 dogs, and how ultramarathon training is going. Follow Team @ExploreWithPaws.UK on Instagram

It's been a while since we brought you a canicross story, and in this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to presenter, and comedy actress, Leanne Stott whose voice you may well recognise from Goodwoof. Leanne chats about the joy of running with her dog, and how she is tackling the challenges of perimenopause with Pilates! Follow Leanne on Instagram and TikTok

Louise and Michelle chat to Marc Soley from CXRC about setting up the growing canicross club with members all over the UK. Marc originally aspired to create a comprehensive list of canicross races, which has now become a community of runners who meet up at events all over the UK. Join the CXRC on Facebook and Instagram

Louise and Michelle chat about their favourite and funniest moments over the first 100 episodes of Canicross Conversations, and hear from some previous guests on the podcast.

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to Emma, founder of Geordie Cani-sports all about setting up and running a canicross club. Follow @geordie_canicrosser on Instagram and Geordie Cani-Sports on Facebook

In today's episode, Louise and Michelle chat about the importance of goals, sharing their own goals for the year, and challenging you to set yourself some goals, whether they be long term or short term one, pace related, or something completely different. Goals are crucial for runners as they provide direction, motivation, and a sense of purpose. Here are some key reasons why you should think about setting yourself some goals: Motivation: Goals serve as powerful motivators, giving you a clear target to strive for during your training. Knowing there's a specific objective, such as a race or distance goal, can help you to maintain enthusiasm and commitment. Progress Tracking: Goals allow you to measure your progress over time, providing tangible evidence of improvement. Plus tracking achievements contributes to a sense of accomplishment and boosts confidence. Structure and Discipline: Having a goal provides a structured framework for your training, guiding you on when and how to increase intensity, duration, or distance. They also instill discipline by creating a routine and commitment to regular training sessions. Sense of Purpose: A goal can give you a clear sense of purpose, whether it's completing a specific race, achieving a personal best, or conquering a challenging route. A defined purpose helps maintain focus and commitment, especially during challenging moments. Overcoming Plateaus: When faced with training plateaus or periods of stagnation, goals offer a reason to reevaluate and adjust strategies. Working towards a new goal can help you break through mental and physical barriers, preventing monotony. Increased Accountability: Publicly declaring goals, whether to a coach, running group, or on social media, enhances accountability. The added sense of responsibility can drive runners to stay committed to their training regimen. However, keeping goals to yourself can also be a powerful motivator too .... Focus and Concentration: Having a clear goal can help you to maintain focus during training sessions by providing a specific target, which can translate into improved performance and efficiency during workouts. Enjoyment and Satisfaction: Accomplishing goals, whether big or small, brings a sense of satisfaction and joy. Celebrating achievements reinforces the enjoyment of running and fosters a positive relationship with the sport. We hope you enjoy this episode.

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to Nick Hewer, best known as Alan Sugar's adviser in The Apprentice. Nick has owned dogs all his life, and chats to Louise and Michelle about his memories of growing up with dogs, and his love of hunting with his black lab, Molly which leads to an interesting discussion about working dogs. This episode is sponsored by Non Stop Dogwear, releasing your dog's potential through robust, reliable and ergonomically designed gear. Whether your dog is small or big, pure bred or a mix, a world champion or a family dog, does not matter. All dogs are equal and deserve nothing but the best. Dog jackets are more than just fashion, they keep your dog happy and comfortable in any condition, allowing you to get out and have fun together, whatever the weather. Check out Non Stop's new range of trekking dog jackets and insulated jackets. Visit your local Non Stop Dogwear stockist.

It's the episode you've all been waiting for! The eagle-eyed amongst you will have noticed an absence of Pickle on social media recently, and that's because she's taken a break from canicross to have a litter of puppies. In this episode, Michelle interviews Louise all about the process of breeding, from selecting a stud, to pregnancy, to whelping, to exactly how tiring it is looking after 5 pups. Louise also chats about getting Pickle's fitness back after pregnancy. This episode is sponsored by Non Stop Dogwear, releasing your dog's potential through robust, reliable and ergonomically designed gear. Whether your dog is small or big, pure bred or a mix, a world champion or a family dog, does not matter. All dogs are equal and deserve nothing but the best. Dog jackets are more than just fashion, they keep your dog happy and comfortable in any condition, allowing you to get out and have fun together, whatever the weather. Check out Non Stop's new range of trekking dog jackets and insulated jackets. Visit your local Non Stop Dogwear stockist.

Today, Michelle and Louise chat about keeping you and your dog fit over Christmas, and how to find that motivation and accountability to achieve some consistency in your training over the holidays.

In this episode, Jason Pascoe from Non Stop Dogwear gives us the lowdown on dog coats and jackets, as they get ready to launch their new range. Jason takes us through fitting a coat, when dogs should wear a coat, and how to look after your coat This episode is sponsored by Non Stop Dogwear, releasing your dog's potential through robust, reliable and ergonomically designed gear. Whether your dog is small or big, pure bred or a mix, a world champion or a family dog, does not matter. All dogs are equal and deserve nothing but the best. Dog jackets are more than just fashion, they keep your dog happy and comfortable in any condition, allowing you to get out and have fun together, whatever the weather. Check out Non Stop's new range of trekking dog jackets and insulated jackets. Visit your local Non Stop Dogwear stockist.

Today's bonus episode is brought to you by a variety of guests helping you decide what to buy your beloved dog for Christmas. Louise and Michelle also chat about their own Christmas traditions. You can save 10% on No Fuss Fill with the code CC Save 9% at K9 Trail Time with code michellek9 Thank you also to Inner Wolf for contributing to this episode

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to Pamela Dempsey from Impackt Behaviour about how Christmas and New Year could be challenging for dogs, and how we can keep this period as stress-free as possible. Find Impackt Behaviour on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to vet Nick again, in our popular Ask the Vet Series, to find out about the biggest food-related dangers for dogs over Christmas. Nick lists foods that are both toxic for dogs, as well as those that can cause tummy distress if consumed in large quantities, and there are some surprises in there! Nick advises what symptoms to look out for, and what to do in an emergency.

Have you tried running with your dog? It's the perfect way to fit in exercise for both you and your dog. But before buying a cheap running belt from Amazon, consider our tips for how to get started in a safe way. On November 23rd, an article was published in The Times titled "Why I'll Never Be a Dog Jogger Again", about a bad experience the writer had about trying to run with her dog. She broke a rib which meant she couldn't run or exercise to her normal level. It's frustrating, and in this episode, we wanted to show you how you can run safely with your dog and enjoy the fun of the trails together.

In this episode, Louise and Michelle interview Chris Smart, who has recently returned from racing in Leipa at the ICF with his Eurohound Chili. He gives us a unique insight into international racing, and tells us how it motivates him to improve more than racing in the UK. Chris is also new to bikejor.

In this week's episode, Louise and Michelle speak with Dan Floyd, for our Canicross Stories segment. As regular listeners know, we've been doing this series for a while to highlight unique experiences from our Canicross community. Dan is an especially interesting guest because he does a lot of running by himself and with his dog Mylo, but not always in the typical canicross style. For example, he still participates in parkruns with Mylo on a handheld lead, which sparked an intriguing discussion since parkrun's recent rules changes. It's rare we get to talk to guests who still do parkruns with their dogs, so hearing Dan's perspective was enlightening. Dan began his road running journey approximately nine years ago, with an initial 10k time of around 55 minutes, but since then, has achieved a 32-minute 10k and a 2.36 marathon with aspirations of going sub 2.30 for the marathon. Dan hasn't always had a dog, but during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he was doing a lot of walking, he welcomed Mylo into his home. Right from the start, he recognized his new companion's potential as a running partner. Now they are completing parkrun together, with Mylo on a handheld lead as parkrun rules state, in under 17 minutes. They are also running longer distance together, covering about 60 miles per week. Dan is a strong advocate for diversifying training routines, which includes sometimes running Mylo off lead, and varying the types of terrain they traverse. Remarkably, despite what appears to be a natural talent for running, they have never participated in an official canicross race, but we chat to Dan about accessing these over just one day instead of a full weekend. We also chat about Dan's goals to set up a canicross group locally, in Lichfield. For those interested in following Dan and Mylo's running adventures, you can find them on Instagram under the handles @Mylo_in_Lichfield and @Floydieruns

Staying active with your Canicross dog during the off season can be a challenge. Joining hosts Louise and Michelle in this week's episode is expert agility trainer Sue from Hare and Hounds training, who shares expert tips on the many benefits of agility for high-energy dogs. Discover how it can improve focus, recall, and provide much needed mental stimulation between races. We also chat about our own experiences getting started in agility and the lessons we've learned along the way. Whether you're looking to tire out a reactive dog or simply keep your canicross partner fit, this episode has takeaways for dogs and handlers of every skill level. Tune in to pick up actionable advice on introducing agility into your training. https://www.hareandhoundsdogtraining.com/

We continue our series on exciting sporting events by featuring a company doing things a bit differently. This Cornwall-based events organiser, Purple Gecko, started out hosting standard trail races, and has since responded to demand to include canicross. Purple Gecko sought expertise from the canicross community to develop a Canicross Championship Series, and now have eight, possibly more, canicross races on the calendar for the 2023-24 season. Where else would you want to canicross than in the beautiful county of Cornwall. Most races avoid the coastal paths for safety, but all the courses take advantage of Cornwall's natural terrain. https://www.purplegeckoevents.co.uk/

As part of the Event Series, Louise and Michelle interview BSSF Vice-President Howard Clark about their races. The interview raised a lot of important issues about sled dog sports in Britain however, and we chat through hopes and aspirations for the future of the British Sled-dog Sports Federation. We delve into international qualification, age categories, the challenges of finding suitable locations to race, and lots more. NEW: We discuss changes to vaccination rules for competition DID YOU KNOW? BSSF membership provides insurance which covers you to race. More info on the BSSF website You can find Howard on his Instagram @k9velocity

Back on Episode 60, you may remember we interviewed Ellie, who had just completed the first ever edition of the Ultra Cani-Trail. In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to organiser Johnny Fletcher as he prepares for the next edition. https://www.canitrailuk.co.uk/ultra-cani-trail

Continuing with our exciting event series, Louise and Michelle chat to Emily Thomas about what inspired her to set up this exciting event which happens annually, early on in the canicross season. The disciplines of canicross (running with dogs) and bikejor (biking with dogs) have been growing rapidly in the UK for the last 10 years, so Emily and her colleagues organise a canicross run, an aquathlon (running and swimming), a duathlon (biking and running) and a full triathlon. Next year's event in September 2024 will be on sale in Spring 2024, and you can find out more on the Tri Dog website or Facebook page.

In this episode, continuing our event series, Michelle and Louise chat to Katie from Trail Dogs

Michelle and Louise chat to Dawn Crook-Richards who organises the Canix series of races across the UK. Follow Canix on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Tik Tok too

In today's episode, Michelle chats to Debs White, founder of canicross event series Lakeland Paws. Canicross in England's only mountain forest. Photo credit: Steve Ashworth Media

In this episode, Michelle and Louise chat to Peter Howse of Devon Howlers. Peter runs the Devon Howlers club, and has set up his own event, the Newnham Bark, for canicross, bikejor and rigs. Join the Devon Howlers Facebook group here

In this episode, Louise chats to Pickle's vet all about grass. What does it mean when your dog eats grass, and how should you deal with grass seed

In this new series all about canicross events. Louise and Michelle chat to Bec and Dean from Endorphin Sport who run a great series of different length canicross running and swimming events in the Midlands https://www.endorphinsport.com/ This episode is sponsored by the Get Stronger, Run a Faster 5k course, it's great for canicrossers and runners to improve their 5k time and get stronger. Find out more and register for the course here.

In our series, Ask the Vet, we ask Pickle's vet Nick Turner about situations that might occur for our dogs over the summer season. This episode deals with worming your dog and managing ticks.

In our series, Ask the Vet, we ask Pickle's vet Nick Turner about situations that might occur for our dogs over the summer season. This episode deals with keeping your dog happy and healthy during the hot weather.

In our new series, Ask the Vet, we ask Pickle's vet Nick Turner about situations that might occur for our dogs over the summer season. This episode deals with travelling abroad with your pets for holidays or races, and what dogs need in terms of papers and vaccinations.

This episode is sponsored by Inner Wolf - the leading outdoor shop for your dogs' outdoor needs. Louise and Michelle chat to Adrian, founder of Inner Wolf about active dogs, with a focus on what we can do with them over the summer season, when we are not canicrossing so much. Visit Inner Wolf at www.innerwolf.co.uk or the shop at Wistow Rural Centre Leicestershire. Use the code PAWS4 for 10% off your next purchase online. Enjoy your adventures together this summer with the right kit for you and your dog

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to Cushla Lamen, founder of the Canicross Trailrunners Facebook group, which is the largest online canicross group in the world. Cushla chats about her racing (she is the current British Female V50 Champion in canicross), her work with the International Canicross Federation, and her work as a Galen Myotherapist.

In this episode, 17 year old Kaela Nixon chats to Louise and Michelle about the challenges of getting youngsters involved in canicross, and what she is doing to help. Kaela is the current British Junior Female Champion in canicross, and runs with Nala. You can follow Kaela on Instagram and TikTok

In this episode, Michelle and Louise chat to Martin Grimshaw all about the Danish Canicross scene, and it's not what you might expect ... Follow Team Hounds on Instagram

In today's episode, released during the Great Big Green Week, Michelle and Louise chat to Marion Montgomery, founder of charity Paws on Plastic, which encourages dog owners to pick up a piece of litter when they're out with their dog, something which is making a huge difference in Marion's hometown. Find out more here: pawsonplastic.org.uk

The UK is a really dog friendly place, and it's for this reason that Elli is hiking the entire length of the UK with her dog Otto. Louise and Michelle catch up with Elli in Scotland, as she takes a short break in her 1600 mile walk north to south. We chat about the practicalities of carrying all your dog's belongings, as well as your own, and what being in the outdoors means to Elli.

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to Mamut Nutrition founder David Toff about hydrating your dog. David chats through how we know our dogs are thirsty, making sure our dogs get enough water, and the benefits of using a hydration powder. You can find Mamut Nutrition on Instagram

In this episode, Louise chats to exhibitors and racers at Goodwoof 2023, and finds out about different dog sports including agility, flyball, and hoopers. Louise also has a chat with PetPlan about dog insurance.

In today's episode, Louise and Michelle chat to Toby Lambert about his transition from endurance running at elite level for Great Britain, to finding canicross. It's a fascinating episode, with some great insights into Toby's training. He is the current European silver medallist in canicross - watch this space for the 2023-24 season! You can follow Toby on Instagram @letsturnandburn