Canitrails and Canicross

The canitrail, or canicross, originated in the late 1980s. Gilles Pernoud, a veterinarian by profession, launched the concept, inspired, according to legend, by ski joëring practiced in Nordic countries. With Canicross, the dog 🐺 has replaced the horse 🐴 with one rule: the runner must never outpace their companion. Connected by a leash, the dog and runner exert the same physical effort. The harness is adapted to the dog's physique, while the runner wears a belt or harness where the leash, with a maximum 2-meter shock absorber, is attached. It's important ⚠️ not to run dogs that are too young, and the chosen distance must be suitable for older dogs. Attention must also be paid to hydration. If all these conditions are met, and your animal loves to exert itself and has endurance qualities, then enjoy canicross! With the help of your dog, you’ll run faster 💪 than ever, an exhilarating feeling alongside the key benefit of oxygenation. Huskies, German Shepherds, Retrievers, Labradors, Goldens: open to all breeds, the discipline offers truly delightful starting lines 🌈! Often practiced on dirt paths throughout the year, this duo race even has a world championship! It is present in 37 countries worldwide. In France, the French Federation of Sledding Sports has governed the discipline since 1996. In terms of distance, races rarely exceed 20 kilometers, whether they are held in the forest, in the mountains, in the city, or by the seaside.

The canicross calendar? The Auvergne Rhône Alpes region is the stage for la Ronde des Grangeons, a 10-kilometer event around the city of Ambérieu-en-Bugey and its beautiful surrounding nature. 1000 meters of positive elevation await duos at the crazy race of the Bruniquel Origine Trail, in Occitanie. Bruniquel is also listed among the most beautiful villages in France, so you can play tourist after your race 😎. And there's hardly a better place in terms of gastronomy... Isn't life grand? In Centre Val de Loire, the village of Rosnay welcomes you for a trail in the Brenne regional natural park, dotted with its many ponds. So if you also want to race competitively with man's best friend, make your equipment list, ensuring your racing companion's good health. In France, many associations can guide you if you need advice. For a complete view of the canicross calendar, follow your guide 🐶!