FAQ About Canicross In Ireland.
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WHAT IS CANICROSS?
Canicross is the sport of cross-country running with dogs. Originating in Europe as off-season training for the mushing community, it has become popular as a stand-alone sport all over Europe
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IS IT ONLY FOR SLED DOG TYPES?
Not at all… Any dog breed, once in good health, can Canicross.
Big, Small, Medium…. all dog sizes and breeds can Canicross
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DO I NEED ANY SPECIAL EQUIPMENT FOR CANICROSS?
In simple terms, a belt, a leash and a harness, lets explain this in more detail.
A special sled dog harness is needed in order to limit the risk of damage to your dogs neck from using a regular collar or harness. The special harnesses help distribute the weight evenly throughout your dogs body, making it easier & safer for both of you! We will also need a Canicross belt and bungee lead to help act as a shock absorber when your dog pulls you (believe me, you will feel the difference once your dog gets into running!)
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DO I NEED TO BE SUPER FIT?
Not at all, we encourage people of all fitness levels to get involved. If Canicross is for you, you will notice your fitness levels improve naturally over time but it is not a requirement
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DID I JUST SEE A BIKE?
Yes, Bikejoring and Scootering is also a dog mushing activity and sport similar to, canicross. In simple terms a dog or team of dogs is attached with a special towline to a bicycle. The dog and rider work in unison to move across trails. We recommend Canicross first so your dog learns the commands needed to navigate with a rider
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IS THIS A SUMMER SPORT?
For the safety of the dogs, the Irish Canicross season is an Autumn – Spring season, ensuring the temperatures and conditions are safe for our furry friends.
Want to learn more? Why not contact us with your questions of come to one of our upcoming events.
More Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes spectators are welcome.
If you have a dog with you, please keep the dog at a safe distance from the trail to avoid any distractions to dogs racing.
Please also ensure you do not approach the start or finish line with a dog.
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Getting started is as easy as working on direction commands with your dog.
When out walking use your turning, start and stop prompts (only say the word once) so your dog learns the commands. This will start the training process for both you and your dog.
Check out our videos tab which can help to explain this in more detail
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To take part in a Canicross Ireland event, your dog must be 18 a minimum of 18 months old at the time of the event
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In simple terms, yes.
A canicross belt, a bungee leash and a canicross harness, lets explain this in more detail.
A special sled dog harness is needed in order to limit the risk of damage to your dogs neck from using a regular collar or harness.
The special harnesses help distribute the weight evenly throughout your dogs body, making it easier & safer for both of you!
You will also need a Canicross belt and bungee lead to help act as a shock absorber when your dog pulls you (believe me, you will feel the difference once your dog gets into running!)
Check out our videos tab which can help to explain this in more detail
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Yes, for insurance reasons all participants are required to become members.
First time members get 1 free race entry to offset the membership costs for their first year.
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Canicross is an Autumn to Spring sport.
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Yes, while there are championship classes. there is also a recreational class for people trying out the sport or who would just like to enjoy the day out without the pressure of racing.
You do not need to be an athlete to participate in the Championship classes, everyone is welcome to enter.
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You can reach us anytime via our contact page or email. We aim to respond quickly—usually within one business day.
