Canicross Conversations

Emily shares the story of Max, her timid and easily spooked Weimaraner who initially struggled with wearing a harness or coping with everyday noises such as wind.    As a behaviourist, Emily offers valuable insight into working with nervous dogs, including how to approach training without pressure, why progress isn’t always linear, and how small wins can lead to big breakthroughs. The conversation explores practical techniques such as using positive reinforcement, tracking progress through video, and introducing confidence-building experiences in a safe and supportive way.   Listeners will also hear how unexpected moments - like running with another dog or entering a first race - can unlock a dog’s potential. Max’s transformation from a fearful dog to a confident canicross racer, even achieving a fourth-place finish, highlights that success doesn’t require a “perfect” dog.   This episode is packed with reassurance, actionable advice, and encouragement for anyone navigating life with a sensitive or reactive dog, showing that with the right approach, canicross can be accessible to all.   Timings 0.00 – Introduction to Max’s transformation 1.05 – Max’s early behaviour and harness aversion 3.10 – First steps into canicross and early challenges 5.19 – Ruling out pain and understanding behaviour 8.44 – Measuring progress and staying motivated 11.23 – Breakthrough moments in training 12.50 – First race expectations vs reality 14.53 – Emotional finish and confidence growth 18.44 – Running with two dogs and building a team 22.00 – Equipment setup and race strategy 24.52 – Advice for owners of nervous dogs 25.21 – Handling setbacks and real-life challenges 32.20 – Managing reactivity during runs 34.27 – Goals and future plans 36.30 – Favourite race experience   Links   Episode 17 – Harness aversion Canix UK races Beat the Black Dog Canitrail event Perfect Dog Training (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok)

Louise and Michelle are joined by Rhys Denham, digital growth manager at Non-stop Dogwear, who shares his journey from UK teacher to living an outdoor-focused life in Norway. Listeners are taken behind the scenes of a life shaped by dogs, adventure and bold decisions, as Rhys explains how he made the leap abroad and embraced a new lifestyle centred around nature and movement.   The conversation explores how their Dalmatians, Django and Amber, played a pivotal role in this transformation, including Amber’s recovery from a rare condition and how it influenced their direction. Rhys also shares how photography, community and social media opened unexpected doors, eventually leading them to Norway.   A key highlight of the episode is an introduction to skijoring – skiing with your dog – including what it feels like, how to get started and the realities of learning a new sport in a completely different environment. From snowy trails and peaceful landscapes to the challenges of cross-country skiing, this episode gives a refreshing and honest insight into trying something new.   Whether you’re curious about skijoring, love canicross or dream of combining dogs with outdoor adventure, this episode is packed with relatable experiences, practical insights and plenty of inspiration.   Timings 1.07 – introduction to Rhys and moving to Norway 2.00 – leaving teaching and career change into digital marketing 3.00 – meet the dogs: Django and Amber 4.15 – Amber’s injury and recovery journey 6.00 – photography, social media and new opportunities 7.30 – discovering canicross and community events 10.00 – the move to Norway and job opportunities 14.00 – working in Norway and settling into a new lifestyle 15.00 – travelling across Europe with dogs and cats 18.30 – dogs adapting to snow and cold weather 22.00 – winter kit, booties and paw care 23.00 – introduction to skijoring 25.00 – learning to cross-country ski 31.00 – first skijoring experiences with the dogs 33.00 – speeds, safety and downhill challenges 36.00 – training dogs for skijoring 39.00 – distances and building endurance 41.00 – fitness benefits of skijoring 43.30 – quick fire round     Sophia’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sophutch Rhys’ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denham_photos

Louise and Michelle catch up after Louise’s busy few days at Crufts and share a behind-the-scenes look at what the event was really like, from the exhibition floor.   From long days on the stand and meeting listeners in person, to fitting first-time runners with canicross kit and chatting to dog lovers curious about the sport, this is a warm, honest and practical conversation about what makes canicross so appealing.   They reflect on just how much interest there is in canicross right now, especially from people who already run with their dogs but may not yet realise how much difference the right kit, knowledge and support can make.   The episode also explores some of the most common questions beginners ask, including how to get started safely, what equipment you actually need, whether you have to race, and how to build both your own fitness and your dog’s confidence over time.   Alongside Louise’s Crufts stories, Michelle shares her experience of coaching total beginners through taster sessions, with advice on stopping, starting, cue words and why going slowly in the early days matters so much. They also talk about finding local clubs, learning trail skills, and remembering that canicross should be fun, flexible and right for both dog and human.   To round things off, they share brilliant listener contributions about the things people wish they had known when they first started. Expect encouragement, useful beginner tips, plenty of relatable moments, and a reminder that canicross can be as social, supportive and addictive as you want it to be.   Timings 0.00 – Louise is back, Pickle is recovering, and the chat turns to Crufts 0.45 – Why this episode was inspired by conversations on the Crufts stand 2.22 – Best beginner episodes to go back and listen to first 3.04 – Behind the scenes at Crufts and Michelle’s social media role from home 5.00 – What Crufts is really like, from stand setup to five huge halls of dog-related shopping 7.29 – Who brings dogs to Crufts and the rise of dog influencers and ambassadors 9.42 – Louise meets service dogs, handlers and potential future podcast guests 10.04 – What a typical day on the stand looked like and the most popular kit 11.12 – The kinds of questions beginners were asking about canicross 13.02 – Why canicross is easier with some guidance and support 14.43 – Michelle’s top beginner tips from coaching taster sessions 16.03 – Why stop cues come before speed, and how to start introducing commands 17.42 – Why joining a club can make all the difference 18.31 – Teaching the “let’s go” cue and building enthusiasm 19.30 – You do not have to race to enjoy canicross 19.58 – Why getting kit fitted properly is so important 20.10 – Building your dog up slowly in harness, even if they already run 21.49 – Don’t forget your own running fitness and strength work 22.37 – Listener tips: what people wish they had known before starting canicross 24.39 – Wet feet, trail shoes and why mud comes with the territory 26.26 – Why trails are better than roads, and where trail beginners can start 27.06 – Unexpected speed boosts, prey drive and why canicross can become addictive 29.13 – More podcast resources for beginners and kit nerds 30.51 – Final encouragement for anyone thinking about giving canicross a go 32.19 – Louise reflects on meeting listeners at Crufts 33.22 – Final call for listener tips, guest suggestions and sharing the podcast   Links mentioned in the episode Episode 37 – an early episode on starting out in canicross Episode 130 – beginner Q&A with Tracey from No Fuss Fill Episode 44 – trail shoes episode with Georgie Episode 27 – Jason Pascoe on harnesses Episode 94 – Jason Pascoe on dog coats Episode 125 – Fredrik, founder of Non-stop, on the brand story Episode 192 – Track and Trail Canine Outfitters on strength-tested harnesses Ultra Women episode(s) with Lily Canter – mentioned as a useful related listen List of canicross clubs around the country – to help listeners find a local club Canicross Conversations Instagram reel – community tips on what people wish they had known Goodwoof – upcoming event Louise mentions

Michelle chats to Seán and Louise from Canicross Ireland. www.canicross-ireland.com www.instagram.com/canicross_ireland https://www.tiktok.com/@canicross.ireland

Louise and Michelle chat to Lucynda, about how canicross has helped her anxious cockerXcollie Sansa. Lucynda is a behaviourist, so we also get an insight into other techniques that might help owners of other anxious dogs.  www.dakotaschoiceabt.com

Louise and Michelle chat with Leanne, founder of Bark & Beau, about a surprisingly common canicross problem: drying muddy, wriggly dogs without turning it into a full-body wrestling match. Recorded during a very rainy February, the conversation is instantly relatable for anyone dealing with soaked coats, filthy paws, and that lingering “damp dog towel” smell that never quite leaves the boot of the car.   Leanne shares the story behind Bark & Beau, inspired by Darcy, her bonkers (and much-loved) German Shorthaired Pointer rescue from Benidorm. With a background as a horse trainer specialising in behavioural problems, Leanne brings a calm, practical approach to animal handling and product design. That experience led her to create a microfibre dog towel with hand pockets, allowing owners to hold and dry their dog more securely, with less stress and mess.   Louise and Michelle dig into what makes these towels different from standard bath towels, why microfibre can dry faster and stay fresher, and how a simple addition like a washable carry bag can make life easier for races, walks, and travelling. They also explore the reality of launching a new dog business: starting small, learning from customer feedback (including requests for a bigger size), and building recognition in a saturated market through shows, collaborations, and community connections.   Expect a friendly, practical episode with plenty of muddy-dog honesty, small business inspiration, and ideas for making post-run clean-up quicker, calmer, and a lot less grim.     Timings 0.08 – welcome and why muddy dog towels are a February reality 0.45 – meet Leanne and the Bark & Beau origin story in Cornwall 1.19 – Darcy the German Shorthaired Pointer: energetic, rescued, and the reason the product exists 1.44 – the “wrestling match” problem and why calm handling matters 2.28 – why bath towels fail and how microfibre became the solution 3.34 – how the hand pockets work (and everyone miming it!) 5.22 – making the leap: from horse training to building a home-based business 6.02 – Leanne’s “day job” at Josh’s Chocolate and transferable skills 7.31 – the towel bag: keeping the car boot less grim 8.17 – Louise’s real-world test at a race and feedback about towel sizing 9.56 – launch timeline: prototype in August, launch in November 10.36 – marketing so far: website, socials, dog shows, and plans for more events 11.06 – Crufts visit, collabs (shampoo brands), and talking to people in person 11.57 – how Darcy adapted: calmer routine, less stress for everyone 13.27 – future products: practical only, and where towels fit alongside dog robes 14.56 – biggest challenge: getting recognised and social media unpredictability 16.40 – customer feedback and pet professionals using the towels (walkers + mobile dog wash) 17.22 – canicross chat and Cornwall community shoutout (Little Gecko) 18.14 – Darcy’s rescue story (Benidorm to Cornwall) 20.16 – pricing, colours, and why grey was the starting point 21.48 – why bath towels can hold smell and why microfibre dries faster 23.03 – five-year hopes: bigger shows, recognition, and hearing “I’ve got one — it’s amazing” 24.06 – where to buy + how to tag Bark & Beau and the podcast   www.barkandbeau.co.uk   Bark & Beau is also on Instagram and Facebook   Mentioned event: Purple Gecko (Episode 86)

In this canicross story, Louise and Michelle chat to Laura about her two Parson Russell Terriers Fudge and Philly, and how canicross and showing complement one another perfectly. Follow @two_russells on Instagram

Michelle and Louise are joined by Sweden-based mother–daughter duo Annika and Felicia Thor, members of the Danish national team. From humble beginnings with a malamute mix to World Championship gold, this conversation tracks their remarkable journey through canicross and bikejoring.   Annika shares her entry into dog-powered sports and how things ramped up when the family welcomed Scandinavian hounds into their lives. Felicia, now just 11 years old and the current ICF World Champion in her age category, reveals how she started running at 3, entered her first race at 7, and continues to train with help from mentor Martin Grimshaw of Team Hounds.   The pair dive into what training looks like (spoiler: lots of swimming and technical trails), their bond with their dogs Helium and Tosse, and how the sport keeps the whole family active and connected. Felicia shares her wisdom and drive, from managing race-day pressure to offering encouragement for other young canicrossers.   An episode full of motivation, laughter, family warmth and a global view on youth participation in dog sports.   “Just keep going and never give up.” Timings 1.10 – Living in Sweden but racing for Denmark 2.00 – How Annika and Felicia got started 5.30 – From a malamute mix to world-level competition 7.45 – Felicia’s first race at age 7 9.50 – The canicross scene in Denmark and Sweden 11.30 – Meet the dogs: Helium and Tosse 14.00 – Switching to bikejoring 17.30 – Training routines for dogs and humans 20.50 – Race-day warm-up and mental prep 24.40 – Winning World Championship gold 29.00 – Keeping motivation high post-race 30.50 – Social media and inspiring others 32.00 – Advice for new and young canicrossers     Resources mentioned Felicia & Annika’s Instagram: @k9trailrun Team Hounds Episode 70 with Martin from Team Hounds

Michelle and Louise sit down with Pauline, founder of Scottish trail‑inspired running brand Trailbreeze, to explore how a love of running in the Scottish hills sparked a business born on the trails.   In August 2024, Pauline left her long‑term job in care to focus on family life and pursue something that nurtured her spirit, running the trails around her home with her spaniel, Joey. What began as a simple idea for headwear soon blossomed into a full range of trail gear, embraced by runners, dog lovers and the canicross community alike.   Pauline shares her journey from that first beanie, to events, sponsorship and future plans. She explains why trails have kept her inspired, motivated and balanced. Throughout, she speaks honestly about running, business, community and simply enjoying the outdoors.     Timings   0.00 – welcome & introduction to Pauline 0.30 – Pauline's story: leaving work, family life & running 1.30 – how Trailbreeze began: headwear idea to brand name 3.00 – Joey the spaniel  4.00 – thoughts on canicross  5.30 – quitting her job & Trailbreeze launch 7.00 – running background: road vs trail experiences 8.40 – Glencoe marathon & the joy of trails 10.00 – weekly training & ultras 12.00 – next race: GB Ultra 50 miler 13.30 – Trailbreeze product beginnings: beanies & tops 15.00 – retail stockists & early success 16.15 – events, brand awareness & BSSF sponsorship 17.00 – feedback from canicross community 18.30 – technical kit details & product quality 20.00 – garments: shorts, hoodies, headbands, gloves 22.00 – clubs & custom gear offerings 23.30 – audience ideas & new products coming soon 25.00 – quickfire questions 26.00 – upcoming events   “Running on the trails isn’t about pace — it’s about enjoying where you are.”   Links Trail Breeze website — https://trailbreeze.co.uk Trail Breeze UK on Instagram — @trailbreezeuk

Hosts Louise and Michelle are joined by Amy, founder of Track and Trail Canine Outfitters, for an inspiring conversation about how one dog changed her life and led her into canicross, community‑building and launching a specialist canine gear shop.   Amy shares her personal journey with Max, a rescue cocker spaniel with behavioural challenges and boundless energy, and how discovering canicross transformed both of them — from anxious walks filled with zig‑zags and reactivity to focused runs, confidence building and partnership.    Rather than take on the cheapest gear she finds on the high street, Amy’s experiences with a lead breaking under stress inspired her to research strength testing and purposeful design. This leads to the creation of her shop — a place that prioritises tested quality, and supports owners with nervous or reactive dogs through private shopping sessions and accessible advice.       Timings 00:00 – 04:40 – intro + how Amy first got into canicross with Max 04:40 – 10:15 – Max’s progress and impact of running on behaviour 10:15 – 17:00 – the incident that sparked the idea for a shop 17:00 – 22:00 – research into strength‑tested brands and gear advice 22:00 – 28:00 – what to look for when choosing dog equipment 28:00 – 33:00 – business journey, community and online growth 33:00 – 37:00 – rewarding moments, private sessions and helping owners 37:00 – 42:30 – exciting plans: expanding shop space and workshops     https://trackandtrailcanine.co.uk

In this episode, Mary Pearson, Race Director at Race Harborough tells us all about how she and Louise have set up a new canicross event, as they prepare for its second edition in February. Mary shares the story of how a canicross‑only race came to life in Leicestershire, inspired by the loss of canicross‑friendly parkruns, and a desire to create an inclusive, fun and sustainable race experience for beginners to canicross.   With practical tips on rolling starts, chip timing, ways to handle public parks and working with volunteers, Mary explains what she’s learned both from the inaugural event and from her extensive experience organising regular trail races and parkruns.   The conversation also explores what makes the race beginner‑friendly, the support available on the day — including kit fittings and advice — and how the event fosters community and inclusivity without feeling elitist. Mary and Louise discuss real participant feedback, route terrain, and what to expect at the 2026 race, taking place on Sunday 8 February at Irchester Country Park. This episode is perfect for anyone thinking about entering a canicross race, organising their own event or simply curious about the behind‑the‑scenes work that makes a race day successful.   Link for the race - https://raceharborough.co.uk/canicross/     Timings 1.00 – episode intro and overview 3.00 – why Mary started a canicross‑only event 6.20 – designing a dog‑friendly course 9.40 – the importance of rolling starts 12.00 – beginner support and equipment stands 15.30 – participant feedback from the 2025 race 18.00 – how public park logistics are managed 21.30 – what’s new for the 2026 event 24.40 – date, distance and entries info 26.30 – trophies, medals and event extras 28.00 – final thoughts on inclusivity and community

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 running 6.00 – Ed's journey into canicross and his first experiences 10.40 – the surprising athleticism of standard poodles 15.00 – training Trixie and early racing stories 18.45 – getting to grips with Canicross commands 21.30 – kit choices and why your waist belt matters 26.00 – building a stronger bond through Canicross 28.40 – training volume and respecting your dog’s limits 32.10 – 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 background 5.50 – what canicross dogs need: joints, gut, stress & more 11.40 – key products for active dogs: mobility, recovery, calming 19.05 – common problems at races and how to support your dog 26.15 – inside Dorwest: sourcing, safety, vet testing 31.30 – 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 history 2.00 – Transition into sports industry & VJ entry 3.30 – Why VJ is resonating in the canicross / off‑road world 4.20 – Grip, studs and terrain: key shoe features 6.00 – Material innovation: butyl rubber, uppers, durability 7.30 – Sizing, fit and foot shape concerns 9.10 – Fit guidance: road/trail crossover, cushioning vs studs 11.00 – Canicross entry and why VJ decided to engage the sport 13.00 – Current best‑selling models for canicrossers: iRock 4 etc 15.10 – Sponsoring the British Sleddog Sports Federation (BSSF) series and community feedback 17.00 – Practical shoe care advice and do’s/don’ts 18.30 – Potential for future dedicated canicross shoe & how listeners can input 20.00 – 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 & Corvo 2.34 – adjusting to life with a high‑energy Border Collie 4.20 – discovering canicross and joining the club 7.30 – starting running habit with dog, kit early stage 10.33 – first race experience and commitment 12.08 – the accident: how it happened 14.00 – immediate response, vet care and concerns 16.30 – specialist hospital and rehab plan 20.23 – building muscle, controlled rehab with the physio 24.00 – keeping Corvo mentally engaged during limited physical activity 27.45 – why core strength and strength training matter for dog sport 31.05 – habit formation, goal‑setting, moving forward 34.43 – Harness the Expert: building core strength 37.15 – how Pilates / short sessions fit into busy life 41.00 – 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