06. Working Dog Health – Or, Why My Dog’s Physio Bill Is Higher Than Mine

My Dog’s a Working Dog. My Wallet Works Harder (and My Savings Account Weeps).

Having a “working dog” sounds incredibly noble, doesn’t it? Like they’re out there, solving crimes, heroically rescuing people from treacherous mountain passes, or perhaps delicately sniffing out artisanal cheeses and vintage wines that are just past their sell-by date. In reality, my “working dog” is primarily engaged in the strenuous activity of demanding attention with laser-like focus, shredding seemingly indestructible toys into confetti in under 3.7 seconds, and occasionally attempting to herd the cat (unsuccessfully, as the cat remains firmly in charge of the household hierarchy). Yet, somehow, the health regime for this furry fiend is more rigorous than a professional athlete’s, and certainly more rigorous than my own.

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05. Canicross – It’s Not Just for Huskies Anymore (Thankfully)

Canicross: The Only Sport Where Your Dog Has More Gear Than You (And Probably More Enthusiasm)

Ah, canicross. The glorious sport of being towed through mud, over roots, and occasionally into an unsuspecting tree by an animal who thinks “full speed ahead” is the only valid pace, regardless of terrain or your personal desire to remain upright. If you’ve ever watched a canicross race, you’ve probably seen a human looking vaguely like a human-shaped kite, desperately trying to maintain some semblance of control while their furry co-pilot powers on. It’s less a collaborative effort and more a high-speed game of follow the leader, where the leader has four legs, an uncanny ability to spot every rogue squirrel within a five-mile radius, and a shocking disregard for your shinbones.

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Beginners Guide #5. – Teaching Lead Manners for Canicross Runners: (Mostly) Pulling on Cue!

Alright, you’ve dipped your toe in the canicross waters, and you’re loving that feeling of being effortlessly (well, mostly!) pulled along by your furry powerhouse. But here’s the thing: while we want them to pull in canicross, we also need them to do it in a controlled, consistent, and well-behaved manner. We’re not after a frantic, uncontrolled tug-of-war! This isn’t just about avoiding face-plants; it’s about building a respectful, powerful, and utterly joyous working partnership. So, let’s dive into teaching your dog to be a canicross pro – pulling on cue, and knowing when to ease off.

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Beginners Guide #4. – Trail Running & Canicross: Safety and Etiquette (Because We Share the Paths, Folks!)

Ah, the glorious British countryside! Rolling hills, ancient woodlands, muddy puddles… and you, tearing through it all, powered by your enthusiastic canine companion. Trail running with your dog, especially when engaging in the exhilarating sport of canicross, is pure bliss. It’s fresh air, stunning views, and that incredible bond. But hold your horses (and your hounds!); with this freedom comes a bit of responsibility. Our trails are shared spaces, and ensuring everyone has a grand old time – safely – means following a few rules of the road (or, rather, the path).

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Beginners Guide #3. – Pacing Perfect: How to Match Your Dog’s Canicross Speed (They’re the Engine, You’re the Steering Wheel!)

You’ve got the kit, you’re hitting the trails, and your dog is, well, pulling. But are you truly running in harmony? One of the biggest ‘aha!’ moments in canicross comes when you realise you’re not just running with a dog; you’re running behind a dog, and they’re the ones setting the pace. Trying to force your dog’s powerful pull to match your desired speed is a recipe for frustration (and probably some strained shouting). For truly awesome canicross, it’s all about syncing your pace with your dog’s natural rhythm and pulling power. This isn’t just about being nice; it’s about getting the best, safest, and most enjoyable run for both of you.

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