When Parkrun changed its rules around Canicross equipment, many runners found themselves looking for an alternative. Rather than stop running together, local groups of Canicross enthusiasts began organising informal meet-ups before Parkrun events.
What started as a practical solution gradually became known as BarkRun.
We recently spoke to DogFit Trainer Rebecca Lawson and DogFit’s Social Media Manager, Lara Trewin about their experiences of BarkRun, how it has evolved and why it has become such a valued part of the local Canicross communities they are involved with.
Despite the name, BarkRun isn’t connected to Parkrun. There is no national organisation, governing body or official membership. Instead, BarkRuns are organised by local groups of Canicross enthusiasts who arrange to meet often on Parkrun routes before the main event begins at 8am, for a social run with their dogs.
What began as a practical response to a change in circumstances has gradually developed into a small but growing part of the Canicross community.
How BarkRun Started
For those outside the sport, the change to Parkrun’s rules about running with a dog may not have seemed particularly significant. For many Canicross runners, however, it changed the experience completely.
Proper Canicross kit consists of a dog wearing a specially designed harness connected via a bungee line to a Canicross belt worn by the runner. The kit allows the dog and the owner to move together in balance and safely as a team. However, Parkrun ruled that whilst the dog is allowed to wear a harness, the runner must hold the dog with a regular lead in their hand.
As Lara explained, the Canicross belt isn’t simply another piece of equipment. It’s a key part of how Canicross works. It allows the runner to remain hands-free, helps maintain balance and control, and creates the connection that enables dog and owner to work together naturally.
Rather than abandon group running with their dogs, Canicross enthusiasts started arranging their own informal meet-ups. There were no committees, memberships or official structures involved – simply people agreeing to meet at a certain place and time to enjoy a run with their dogs.
Over time, those gatherings became known as BarkRuns.
More Than Just a Run
At first glance, BarkRun might look like any other social running group. People arrive, chat, warm up and set off around a route together. There is very little focus on finishing times or performance. Instead, the emphasis is on enjoying time outdoors with your dog and sharing the experience with other people who understand why running with dogs is so rewarding.
Some participants run the entire route. Others jog, while some mix running and walking and times are not recorded by anyone.
Rebecca highlighted how many friendships have developed through her local BarkRun, with both dogs and owners becoming familiar faces from week to week. What starts as a Saturday morning run often becomes something much more social, with conversations continuing long after the dogs have caught their breath.
Dogs Come First
Like most things in Canicross, BarkRun is built around the partnership between dog and owner.
The pace, the route and even many of the conversations revolve around the dogs themselves. Discussions about training, equipment, nutrition and behaviour are common, while people are usually happy to share experiences and advice. One of the reasons many owners enjoy BarkRun is the shared understanding that comes from being surrounded by other dog people.
Everyone appreciates that dogs have different personalities and different levels of confidence. Some are experienced Canicross partners, while others are just beginning their journey. Some are happy running alongside other dogs, while others prefer a little more space.
New to Canicross?
One of the recurring themes that came up during our conversation was how approachable BarkRun can feel for people who are new to Canicross.
Many people assume they need to be experienced runners before joining a group. In reality, participants arrive with a wide range of experience and fitness levels.
Some have completed races and events. Others are taking their first steps into the sport. Some run the entire route, while others alternate between running and walking.
What matters most is getting out there and enjoying the experience with your dog.
Both Rebecca and Lara felt that one of BarkRun’s greatest strengths is how welcoming it can be for newcomers. The informal nature of the groups means there is usually plenty of opportunity to ask questions, meet experienced runners and gain confidence without feeling under pressure.
For someone curious about Canicross, BarkRun can provide a gentle introduction to the wider community.
Learning About Canicross Equipment
Another benefit of BarkRun is the opportunity to see proper Canicross equipment being used.
Many people first discover Canicross through social media or by seeing runners out on the trails. Watching experienced runners work with their dogs often helps newcomers understand why specialist equipment is so important.
Full Canicross kit consists of the following
A properly fitted Canicross harness for the dog
A bungee line
A Canicross waist belt for the runner
Seeing the equipment in action often helps people understand why Canicross differs from simply running while holding a lead and why investing in the correct equipment can make such a difference.
From Beginner to 5K
Many people join a local BarkRun after completing some form of beginner Canicross training.
At DogFit, we’ve seen countless people progress from complete beginners to confidently running 5K with their dogs. For some, BarkRun becomes a natural next step, offering an opportunity to put newly learned skills into practice while enjoying the social side of the sport.
While BarkRun remains a relatively small and informal part of the wider Canicross community, it highlights something that has always been at the heart of the sport: people enjoy being active with their dogs and sharing that experience with others.
Interested in Getting Started?
If BarkRun has sparked your interest in Canicross, DogFit has qualified instructors across the UK who can help complete beginners learn the skills, techniques and equipment needed to get started safely and confidently.
For those who don’t have a class nearby, or who prefer to learn at their own pace, the DogFit Couch to 5K App provides step-by-step guidance to help both dog and owner progress together. Many people use it as a foundation before joining local Canicross groups or attending a BarkRun for the first time.
You can find out more about BarkRuns on their Facebook Group
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