Dogfit BlogPodcast – Dogfit Blog

From Weekly Runs to Race Day Fun

Ginetta George — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 17:42:07 +0000

We recently welcomed back DogFit Trainer Fizz O’Neill (who runs classes in the Welton, Hull area) to the Talk Canicross podcast – and what a journey she’s had since we last spoke! From building a thriving Canicross community to organising large-scale events, Fizz’s story is a brilliant example of how the sport continues to grow – not just in numbers, but in impact.

In this article, we explore:

How Fizz got started in Canicross
The powerful benefits for both humans and dogs
What it takes to build a successful Canicross community
How to approach your first Canicross event with confidence

How It All Started

Like many people, Fizz didn’t begin with the proper equipment, or a structured plan. As a teacher, she was already running early mornings with her dogs but using a basic harness and a makeshift setup. That all changed when she was introduced to Canicross.

Fizz says, “After trying proper Canicross kit I never looked back. It’s revolutionary for both human and dog”.

From that moment, things progressed quickly. She attended some DogFit classes in a neighbouring area and was quickly encouraged to become a DogFit Trainer herself. She completed the DogFit Certified Trainer Course and went on to build her own Canicross community in Welton, Hull.

Five years later, she’s still as passionate as ever!

Building a Canicross Community

One of the standout elements of Fizz’s success is the strong community she’s created. Her group isn’t just about running – it’s about connection.

So what makes it work? Well, it’s a combination of things:

Inclusivity – Fizz welcomes all abilities and all types of dogs
Supportive atmosphere – there is no pressure to perform, it’s about having fun and being part of a like-minded group
Social element – post-run coffees are the norm, and friendships have been formed beyond running
Fun training sessions – Fizz includes drills, laughter, and shared experiences: “It’s not all serious – we have a good laugh. That’s what keeps people coming back” says Fizz.

As a result, over time, members have formed lasting friendships and built confidence – both as runners and dog owners.

The Mental & Physical Benefits

Canicross is far more than just running with your dog. For her human clients, Fizz regularly sees reduced stress and improved mood, increased confidence, and physical progression – even from complete beginners!

Fizz cites one standout example. She coached someone who had never run before. Over a year she worked with her to build up her fitness, confidence and ability – ensuring that she didn’t take on too much too soon, whilst staying injury-free and still enjoying every minute! This client has since gone on to run a 15 mile event, which is phenomenal!

Fizz puts a lot of it down to the psychological power of Canicross: “Within five minutes of running, people say they feel better. It’s a huge mental health boost.”

And for dogs, the benefits are just as significant. They get mental stimulation through commands, and there is of course the physical exercise. Beyond that, Fizz sees improved behaviour and focus, and socialisation gains from being in a controlled and safe environment. Canicross is particularly powerful for nervous or reactive dogs, dogs that struggle off-lead, and rescue dogs that need their confidence building. “They’re back in a pack environment – something many dogs don’t experience anymore.”

From Classes to Events: The Rise of “Trails & Tails”

Fizz’s journey didn’t stop at coaching. What began as a passion for helping others discover Canicross quickly evolved into something much bigger – the launch of her own event series, Trails & Tails.

How It All Began

Like many great ideas, it started simply. Fizz began organising monthly “adventure runs”, taking her group to new locations and creating opportunities to explore together. The response was overwhelmingly positive. Runners loved the sense of variety, the shared experience, and the welcoming atmosphere.

At the same time, an opportunity arose to revive a previous event location – and with the encouragement and practical support of her community (from tech help to event organisation), Trails & Tails was born.

From First Event to Growing Success

The response exceeded all expectations.

At her very first event, 70 participants turned up – a fantastic turnout driven largely by her own community. The atmosphere was supportive, friendly, and full of energy.

By the second event, that number had grown to 120 participants. Even more impressively, people were travelling over three hours to attend, with many choosing to camp and turn the event into a full weekend experience.

It was clear: this was more than just a race. It was a community in action.

What Makes These Events Different?

Fizz has been intentional about creating events that feel different from traditional races.

Rather than focusing on competition, Trails & Tails is designed to be:

Welcoming, not intimidating
Community-led rather than performance-driven
Accessible to both Canicross runners and trail runners

With distances of 4 and 8 miles, the events cater to a range of abilities – but the real focus goes beyond distance or pace.

As Fizz puts it: “It’s not about winning – it’s about safety, enjoyment, and the dogs having a good time.”

Event Etiquette: Running Safely With Your Dog

If you’re thinking about entering your first Canicross event, preparation is key – not just for performance, but for safety and enjoyment.

Here are some essential guidelines to keep in mind:

1. Give Space

Always be mindful of other dogs, particularly those that may be nervous or reactive. Look out for “Give Me Space” indicators (often yellow) and respect them.

2. Know Your Commands

Clear communication with your dog is essential. Commands like left, right, slow, stop, and pass help prevent confusion and keep everyone safe.

3. Manage Your Start

Busy start lines can be overwhelming for some dogs. If yours is anxious, consider hanging back and starting later.

4. Be Considerate When Overtaking

Always call your pass clearly and give other runners and dogs time to react.

5. Put Safety Before Speed

Not every dog is ready for events, and that’s okay. It’s far better to wait until you and your dog feel confident and prepared.

Is Canicross Racing for Everyone?

The short answer? Not necessarily – and that’s perfectly fine.

Fizz encourages runners to choose events carefully, taking time to research the atmosphere and level of competition. For beginners especially, starting with relaxed, community-focused events can make all the difference.

As she explains: “Some races are intense – if you’re new, you need something less pressured.”

Why Training Still Matters (Even for Experienced Runners)

Even experienced runners can be surprised by the challenges of Canicross.

Fizz recalls one ultra-marathon runner who assumed it would be straightforward:
“He said, ‘I thought you just put the kit on and go for a run.’ Then realised how technical it is.”

In reality, Canicross requires:

Well-timed, consistent commands
An understanding of your dog’s behaviour
Strong teamwork and communication

That’s why structured training – such as DogFit’s Couch to 5k programme – plays such an important role in building confidence for both runner and dog.

The Bigger Picture: A Growing Sport

Fizz’s experience reflects the wider growth of Canicross across the UK.

There are now more events, more participants, and an increasing awareness of dog wellbeing within the sport. Importantly, this growth hasn’t come at the expense of inclusivity.

There’s space for everyone:

Social runners
Competitive racers
Complete beginners
Even nervous or inexperienced dogs

Thinking About Giving It a Go?

If you’re curious about Canicross or considering your first event, the best place to start is simple:

Join a Trainer-led group
Learn the core commands
Build gradually with your dog

From there, look for friendly, inclusive events where the focus is on enjoyment rather than performance.

Final Thoughts

Fizz’s journey highlights what makes Canicross so special. It’s not just about running – it’s about connection. It strengthens the bond between dog and owner, builds supportive communities, and offers both mental and physical benefits.

Most importantly, it opens the door to new challenges – at your own pace.

As Fizz says: “It’s not just running with your dog – it’s a partnership.”

For details of Fizz’s next event see here:

Trails and Tails 4 mile & 8 mile

The post From Weekly Runs to Race Day Fun appeared first on Dogfit Blog.

Beginner-5k Success – The DogFit Way

Ginetta George — Sat, 28 Feb 2026 18:04:38 +0000

From “I’m Not a Natural Runner” to 5K Success: Moose and Lou

As we celebrate over 10 years of DogFit and the thousands of people we’ve helped start their Canicross journey, there’s nothing more inspiring than hearing from someone who’s lived it.

When we relaunched our enhanced Canicross Beginners 5K Course, we invited Lou to join us on the Talk Canicross podcast to share her experience. What followed was a story about confidence, partnership, unexpected speed… and a Cockapoo called Moose.

You can watch the full episode at the bottom of this blog, however here’s Lou’s journey in blog form – because sometimes it helps to read how it all unfolds.

“I’m a runner… but not a natural one”

Lou describes herself as a runner – but not the effortless kind.

For years she’d battled the usual internal dialogue:

This is hard.
I can’t breathe.
I’m not fast enough.

Like many runners, she stuck with it, joined a supportive running group, and gradually learned to quieten those mental demons. But running still felt like something she had to work at.

Then Moose arrived!

A Cockapoo she hadn’t expected to own (despite being there when he was born!), Moose quickly became more than just a pet. He became her training partner.

The idea of Canicross was first planted by friends at her running club. A quick Google search later, she found DogFit – and reached out for advice on harnesses and kit.

“I was clueless,” she admits. “I didn’t know what I needed.”

Starting with the right equipment and proper guidance gave her the confidence to begin safely – for both her and Moose.

Why she chose the Beginners 5K Course

Even though Lou already ran, she didn’t want to “wing it” with Moose.

Her priorities were simple:

Keep him safe.
Avoid injury.
Learn the right way to build him up.
Follow proper guidance.

With no local Canicross training available at the time, the flexibility of the online course appealed immediately.

Although the programme is structured over eight weeks, you get access for a year. That flexibility mattered.

“You can revisit week one. You can stay on week two for two months. It fits around your life.”

And life does get in the way – especially when you start a one-year-old dog in May… and then hit a hot summer.

The weather slowed their progress, but instead of quitting, Lou simply adapted. The course allowed them to pause, repeat sessions, and progress when conditions were safe.

No pressure. No deadlines. Just steady progress.

The biggest fear: “Is he going to pull me over?”

One of the most common questions we get from beginners is: “What if my dog pulls me over?”

Lou had the same worry. Moose was quick off-lead, and she imagined herself face-down in the mud.

In reality? She’s only fallen once – and that was while standing still on uneven ground!

With the right Canicross kit and gradual training, Moose learned how to work in partnership. The bungee line absorbed sudden movements, and the commands built control and communication. That fear quickly disappeared.

The transformation: From sniffing puppy to focused teammate

Lou recently looked back at her very first training video. Moose, nose down, sniffing everything, had no idea what was going on.

Fast forward to now, and he:

-Knows directional commands.
-Checks in with her.
-Understands the difference between walking and Canicross mode.
-Rarely “messes about” when they’re attached.

“He just seems to know – right, head in the game.”

One of the unexpected bonuses? The improved communication has carried over into everyday walks. Moose is more tuned in, more responsive, and more connected.

That’s one of the powerful side-effects of training properly: you don’t just build fitness. You build understanding.

“Running feels effortless now”

Perhaps the most surprising part of Lou’s story?

She used to find running hard. But now, when Moose is pulling in front, she says it feels effortless.

“It doesn’t hurt. I don’t feel in pain. I don’t feel like I can’t breathe.”

She talks to him constantly while they run. If she momentarily struggles for breath, Moose turns to check on her.

That partnership – that subtle communication – has changed how she experiences running.

It’s no longer just exercise.
It’s teamwork.

And yes, in race photos they’re both grinning.

“You can’t fake that.”

The 5K that changed everything

When they finished the course, Lou signed up for a local 5K event to mark the occasion.

She had no expectations.

When asked for an estimated finish time on the entry form, she put 40 minutes – just to be safe. They were gridded last.

Then they ran. – They crossed the line in 28 minutes. Lou had to look at her watch twice!

Her personal 5K PB – untouched for six or seven years – had just been smashed.

“That just blew me away.”

But perhaps even more importantly, Moose taught her something else:

She can’t control everything.

If he doesn’t want to pull one day, that’s okay. If something distracts him, that’s okay. It’s not just her race anymore. And strangely, that’s made her more relaxed as a runner.

From hesitant beginner to event addict

Since that first 5K, Lou and Moose have:
Entered multiple Canicross races.
Completed a fun 10K.
Joined local Canicross groups.
Signed up for a full season of races nearby.

She now happily drives 30 minutes to meet other Canicross runners for a four-mile run – something she’d never do alone.

“I never go out thinking I don’t want to run.” That’s the Canicross effect.

Lou’s advice if you’re sitting on the fence

If you’re unsure whether to start the Beginners 5K course, Lou’s message is simple:

“Don’t even think about it. Just sign up.”

-Repeat weeks if you need to.
-Go at your own pace.
-Ignore everyone else’s progress.
-Focus on you and your dog.
-You don’t have to race. You don’t have to chase times. You don’t have to be fast.
-You just have to show up.

Because at its heart, Canicross isn’t about competition.

It’s about:

-Building a bond.
-Moving together.
-Having fun.
-Finishing with a kiss and a “thank you” to your dog.

And sometimes, discovering you’re capable of far more than you thought.

Ready to start your own journey?

Our enhanced Canicross Beginners 5K Course is designed to:

-Build fitness safely for you and your dog.

-Teach proper commands and best practice.
-Guide you on temperature safety and welfare.
-Help you progress confidently to your first 5K.

Like Lou and Moose, you might just surprise yourself.

Canicross really does make you happy

You can follow Lou and Moose @mooseandlou_canicrossjourney on Instagram

The post Beginner-5k Success – The DogFit Way appeared first on Dogfit Blog.

2 Wheels, 4 Paws: Welcome to Bikejor

Ginetta George — Thu, 27 Nov 2025 14:23:54 +0000

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to swap your running shoes for a bike and let your dog take the lead, Bikejor (Bikejoring) might be your next obsession. It’s fast, it’s fun, and it’s an amazing way to enjoy the trails together – especially if you or your dog love a bit of extra speed.

In a recent podcast we chatted with DogFit Trainer Sam Ellis, based in beautiful West Cornwall. She shares her experience and advice on getting started with Bikejor: from the right kit and commands, to building your dog’s confidence and keeping things safe and enjoyable for you both.

Sam has grown up around dogs her whole life. One of the key dogs from her childhood was a Munsterlander, and even back then she was fascinated by sled dogs and working breeds. Her grandfather worked as a meteorologist in the 1950s and told her stories of Huskies and dog sledding in icy landscapes – the kind of tales that plant a lifelong seed.

Over the years, Sam has tried dog sledding in Canada and Norway, worked in a veterinary practice, gained a degree in Animal Behaviour and Welfare, and spent nearly 20 years lecturing in animal science, behaviour, welfare, nutrition, and anatomy and physiology at Newquay University Centre.

She now lives on a mixed farm in West Cornwall with four working Cocker Spaniels (aged from 1 to 12 years) and runs classes in agility, Canicross and Bikejor from home. Her Canicross journey began around 12 years ago when a colleague showed her “this thing called Canicross”. One kit consultation later and she was hooked.

From there, Bikejor was a natural step: same teamwork, more speed, and an extra dose of adrenaline.

What Is Bikejor And How Does It Differ From Canicross?

Bikejor is the fastest dryland mushing sport. Your dog runs out in front of your mountain bike, attached by a bungee line, and you work together as a team along off-road trails.

How it compares to Canicross:

In Canicross, you’re attached to your dog and you’re running behind them
In Bikejor, your dog is out in front, attached to your bike with a longer bungee line and an antenna (bike arm) to keep the line away from your front wheel
It’s faster and often more adrenaline-fuelled, but it can also be managed at a steady, controlled pace.
Some dogs may even find it slightly easier than Canicross because there can be less resistance from the human (you’re on wheels rather than legs).

At its heart, Bikejor is simply another way to share adventures with your dog, strengthen your bond and give them a job they love.

Why Try Bikejor With Your Dog?

The number one benefit?  You both have fun!

For the dog, Bikejor can:

Build and maintain fitness
Keep muscles toned and strong
Provide controlled, purposeful exercise, especially useful for dogs who can be a bit wild when off-lead
Help with impulse control and focus – they learn to listen, concentrate and follow cues at speed
Give reactive or anxious dogs a structured outlet where they can still get out, see the world and work in a focused way

Some vets may even recommend Canicross and/or Bikejor as part of a controlled exercise plan for certain mild conditions – but this should always be on a case-by-case basis and done in consultation with your vet.

For humans, Bikejor:

Builds an incredible bond with your dog
Keeps you physically fit and mentally sharp – your reactions have to be quick
Can be kinder on your knees than running
Adds variety if you already enjoy Canicross or other dog sports

And crucially, while it can be fast and exciting, it doesn’t have to be breakneck speed. You can absolutely enjoy bikejor at a more controlled pace – it’s about working together, not scaring yourself silly!

Which Dogs Are Best Suited To Bikejor?

The good news is that most fit, healthy dogs with enthusiasm and drive can enjoy Bikejor. There are just a few important points to consider.

Fitness and weight:  Your dog should be in reasonable shape and not significantly overweight. If they need to build fitness first, start with CaniTrekking or slower-paced Canicross before introducing speed.

Brachycephalic breeds:  Short-nosed dogs (such as Pugs or French Bulldogs) need very careful consideration. Because Bikejor involves higher speeds, they may struggle more with breathing and heat. Always talk to your vet before attempting it with these breeds.

Naturally athletic breeds:  If you’re thinking about racing or higher-performance work, dogs such as Huskies, pointers, collies and other working breeds often excel.

Smaller working breeds:  Sam Bikejors with her working Cocker Spaniels – small but agile, fit and bred for stamina.

The key requirement:  A healthy, willing dog who enjoys working in harness and has the right foundations in place.

How Old Should a Dog Be to Start Bikejor?

As with Canicross, your dog needs to be fully grown before pulling in harness at speed.

Most breeds mature between 12-18 months, with larger breeds often closer to the upper end. Sam recommends erring on the side of caution and aiming around 18 months.

Always get:

A full health check from your vet
Specific confirmation that your dog is ready for this type of work

Vets can pick up subtle issues, such as joint concerns or heart murmurs, which become more important when adding speed and impact.

What you can start early:  Teach left/right cues, practise steady/stop/wait/go-on, build loose-lead skills, and develop general focus on walks. Just don’t attach them to a bike or ask them to pull until they’re fully mature and cleared by your vet.

Older dogs:  Experienced Canicross dogs may enjoy some Bikejor too, but only if they’re moving comfortably, distances are kept short, you warm up and cool down properly, and you pay attention to signs of fatigue.

Essential Kit for Bikejor

To get started safely, you’ll need the following:

For You:

A mountain bike with good disc brakes, suitable off-road tyres, and a set-up you feel confident riding
A well-fitting helmet
Gloves for grip and braking (especially in colder months)
Optional protective gear: shin pads, elbow pads, glasses or goggles
A phone carried on your person
A small first aid kit (keep a larger kit in the car; carry essentials in a vest or small pack)

For Your Dog:

A well-fitting pulling harness, ideally a long-back style such as the Non-Stop Freemotion
A longer bungee line than for Canicross (at least 2.8m when stretched)
A Bikejor antenna/arm to keep the line clear of the front wheel
Optional extras such as a rain/thermal coat, Mud Daddy for rinsing off, or paw wax for after a session
DogFit stocks a range of bikejor-friendly harnesses, lines and bike arms, and you can book a kit consultation if you’re unsure what you need.

Introducing Your Dog To The Bike

If your dog is new to Bikejor, build their confidence gradually.

Start on foot:  Have one person walk the dog while another pushes the bike beside them. Let them hear and see the bike’s movements and sounds.

Check their reaction:  Make sure they’re relaxed and curious. Practise until the bike becomes normal background noise.

Ride alongside:  Hop on and pedal slowly next to your dog on lead so they get used to your new position behind them.

Short first runs:  When they’re comfortable and you’ve established basic cues, attach the long bungee line and antenna. Choose a flat, quiet, non-slippery trail. You can use a steady, experienced dog in front if it helps. Keep early sessions extremely short – even 100m in harness is a great start. The aim is confidence, not speed.

Key Commands for Bikejor

Many Canicross cues carry over to Bikejor; they just need to be sharper at higher speeds. Useful commands include:

Left / Right (or Gee / Haw)
Go on
Steady
On by
Wait / Stop
Line out

Practise these on walks, during free running or in Canicross sessions so they’re familiar before adding the bike.

Choosing Routes, Terrain and Conditions

Planning ahead makes Bikejor safer and more enjoyable.

Terrain:  Choose off-road tracks with some cushioning – grass or earth works well as long as it isn’t too muddy or deeply rutted. Avoid concrete, deep mud, long wet grass and busy shared paths when you’re just starting out. Walking routes beforehand is helpful.

Weather and temperature:  Because Bikejor is faster, your dog’s temperature can rise quickly. Aim for below 15°C, take humidity into account, and plan shorter sessions than you would for Canicross. Keep your dog hydrated but avoid large gulps immediately after hard work. Always include a calm cool down. Be cautious about letting a hot dog jump straight into cold water, as sudden temperature changes can be a shock.

How Often Should You Bikejor?

For beginners, Sam recommends:

One short session a week in the early stages
Focus on quality rather than distance
Increase gradually as fitness, confidence and communication improve

Mix Bikejor with Canicross, free running, enrichment and proper rest days. If your dog seems less keen, slows down unusually or becomes less responsive, shorten sessions or give them a break.

Can You Bikejor With Other People?

Absolutely! And it can be a great learning environment. You can follow another dog to encourage forward drive or have a dog behind to help teach “go on”. You can also ride with friends even if only one dog is attached at a time.

Just maintain safe distances, go at a pace everyone can manage and choose companions who understand dog-powered sports.

Getting Started: Vet, Trainer, Kit… And Fun

A simple checklist to begin your Bikejor journey:

Speak to your vet – get a full check-up and ask specifically about suitability for Canicross/Bikejor.

Check your kit – ensure your bike is safe, your harness fits well and you have the right line and bike arm.
Work with a trainer – a qualified Canicross/Bikejor trainer can review your set-up, guide your progression and build your confidence.
Start small and make it fun – short sessions, plenty of praise, and always finish on a positive note.

Sam offers online one-to-ones and in-person sessions from West Cornwall for anyone keen to get started with Canicross or Bikejor.

You can find more about Sam on her DogFit page: here

The post 2 Wheels, 4 Paws: Welcome to Bikejor appeared first on Dogfit Blog.