Hook Up & Chase Tail

Alexis Karpf is a Canicross enthusiast and the Marketing and Operations Coordinator for North American Canicross. 

“We like to say, ‘All breeds and speeds welcome!’” says Karpf. “Canicross is something everyone who enjoys being outside can do.”

What sets it apart from regular trail running with your dog is that Canicross is powetred by the dog. Special harnesses are used to allow the dog to have optimal and comfortable pulling. They are connected by a bungee lead—no longer than six feet—which is then attached to a special running belt on their owner. The belt and bungee lead allow for shock absorbency and keep the owner from any back injury. The dog may be pulling, but the owner is the driver. Dogs are taught special commands for things like “left,” “right,” “slow down,” and “speed up.” The objective is for the owner and dog to work as a team to reach the finish line.

Photo Jessica Willis

“The best thing about Canicross is the bond you create when working together with your dog,” says Karpf. “On the trail, we’re constantly communicating with our dogs, encouraging them to keep going, conquer a hill, or run harder toward the finish line. In a way, we’re also motivating ourselves and each other to accomplish something challenging.”

She notes there are versions to suit every fitness level. “Canihiking and caniwalking are also popular in our program. The goal of the sport isn’t how fast you accomplish a trail, it’s about working together with your dog, enjoying each other’s company, and getting outside! Many people who start Canicross are not runners; they simply want to be more active with their dogs.”

It’s also inclusive of all breeds. Canicross originated in the dog sledding community—mushers needed a way to cross-train their teams in the off-season—so the original Canicross dogs were primarily traditional mushing breeds. But the popularity of Canicross as a stand-alone sport has led to a significant increase in breed variety, now including pure and mixed breeds of all shapes and sizes.

“We have a variety of dogs of different sizes participating in Canicross, including small terriers, Dachshunds, and even Chihuahuas!” enthuses Karpf.

The social component may prove as big of a draw as the time outside with your dog. 

Photo Jessica Willis

“It’s how we met!” says Karpf. “All three of us (NACC Founders Alexis Karpf, Lizzie Hill, and Jacqui Johnson) have competed in dog sports for many years, but it was Canicross that we all really fell in love with. Not only was it something we could do with our dogs, but it also brought us together on weekends.”

Canicross encouraged them to explore their area. Each weekend, the trio would choose a different trail and spend a few hours together in the woods. Eventually, they started posting their meetups for other dog runners to join, helping to grow the sport. 

“Canicross has truly changed our lives and taken us on an unexpected journey,” says Karpf. When we started back in 2019, our goal was to share our enthusiasm for the sport and our love for working with our dogs. We never expected to receive as much positive feedback and support as we have in these past few years. Witnessing people supporting and encouraging each other every day to get outside and be with their dogs has been the greatest reward of all.”

This article originally appeared in the award-winning Modern Dog magazine. Subscribe today!