Paws for exercise

Canicross is one of the country’s fastest growing sports and is an ideal way for you and your canine companion to keep fit and have fun.

Canicross not only is a great method to get a human and a canine fit, but works the dog’s mind and allows them to use their brain in a work mode. Many canicross groups also offer scootering or bikejoring too – like a hybrid of dog sledding and cycling.

Paramedic Hynde Neilson (28) , took up canicross because she felt she had become unfit since leaving the army three years beforehand, and was also concerned that her Springer Spaniel, Dougal, was becoming fat.

She contacted Cani Fit, who run classes in running, hiking or even biking with your dog across central Scotland, and she and Dougal (right) haven’t looked back since, taking part in competitive events across the country.

She said: “I love the sport so much because it’s not just about you, it’s about the teamwork and bond with your dog.

“They make getting out and doing physical exercise more fun and enjoyable, as you’ve got your fur baby there with you, helping you to keep going, and no matter the weather, they’re ready to go.

“A lot of people think it’s just running with a dog attached to you, but it’s not. The dogs need to listen to the commands from the runner, especially on the more technical terrain with steep descents. We loved the Cani Fit classes with Lindsay Johnson – they are fantastic, friendly and so knowledgeable.

“It doesn’t matter what breed of dog you have – at races and events I’ve seen everything from purpose-bred sled dogs to a tiny Dachshund.

“The dogs love it. Dougal knows when he’s going to canicross – he gets so excited. The noise alone from the dogs at any event tells you just how much they love it.

Two legs, four paws – get out there and give canicross a try.