What is Bikejoring?
Bikejoring is a wonderful sport that enables adherents to get a rush of adrenaline while cycling with their dog. Bikejoring requires a bikejoring harness to which you are attached to your dog. In this sport, you ride a specially crafted bike that lets you and your dog both pedal and run, respectively. This ensures that you maintain the same speed at all times.
What is Canicross?
Canicross is another form of dog-involved sport where your dog pulls you through a harness attached to you. The term “canicross” is actually derived from the combination of cross-country and canine, showing the inherent partnership between dog and runner. This sport is all about teamwork, enabling you to create a strong bond with your pup, while enjoying the numerous benefits of being active and outdoors.
Training: Bikejoring and Canicross
Bikejoring
Training your dog for bikejoring requires you teaching your dog basic commands and obedience. You can motivate your dog by using positive reinforcement techniques such as praise and treats. Doing this makes the training sessions enjoyable for your dog. Also, remember to have rest days as without them, your can overexert your dog. It also requires you to introduce your dog to the bikejoring harness and your bike.
Note that this should be a gradual process till your dog is completely comfortable in its presence. You can begin with short rides at walking pace, before increasing the speed and distance as your doggo gets more accustomed to and comfortable with the bike. It is imperative that you take safety very seriously—this means taking precautions and adjusting your training plan to your dog’s comfortability level.
Canicross
Just as with bikejoring, canicross requires you to train your dog before venturing out into the world. Building up strength and endurance for you and your dog is pertinent to avoiding any injuries or strains. You can begin with basic obedience training before gradually introducing running together.
Movement: Bikejoring and Canicross
Bikejoring
Bikejoring provides individuals with the opportunity to combine their love for cycling and taking their furry friends on an adventure. This sport offers an exciting experience to both you and your dog as your dog pulls you forward while you pedal. You should note that you need to be adept at cycling and keeping control of your bike before bikejoring. If you are new to bikejoring, you can start off with a longer leash to the bikejoring harness.
The longer leash puts a bit of distance between you and your dog, ensuring there is enough time for you to react. Alternatively, you can begin with shorter bike distances, increasing the intensity and distance once you and your dog have reached your comfort levels.
Canicross
Canicross enables you to experience running alongside your dog. It doesn’t matter if you prefer intense sprints or leisurely jogs with your dog, canicross is great for just about any fitness level. When you run with your dog, you not only improve your physical fitness, but you also strengthen the bond between you and your dog.
When new to canicross, you are better off starting with shorter distances, before increasing the duration and intensity of your runs. Doing this ensures that you and your canine friend are always in good shape and comfortable.
Equipment: Bikejoring and Canicross
Bikejoring
As with all dog-related sports, having the right equipment is essential. When it comes to bikejoring, you will need a bikejoring harness for your pup, a bungee line to connect the harness to your bike, and then a bikejoring attachment to connect to your bike. The attachment is typically secured to the bike’s front, working as a pivot point that enables your dog to pull your forward without affecting your balance and steering.
The bikejoring harness needs to be well-fitting. It should fit comfortably and securely around your canine friend’s body. When the bikejoring harness is comfortable, your dog can pull the bike you ride without any issues. To this end, search for harnesses that come with additional padding to prevent chafing. The bikejoring harness should be adjustable. It should also come with reflective strips to aid visibility, particularly during low-light conditions.
Canicross
Just as with bikejoring, canicross requires specialised equipment. The main equipment required is a waistbelt for yourself, a comfortable harness for your doggo and a bungee leash to connect both you and your dog. The harness used for canicross is uniquely designed to provide optimum safety and comfort for your pup.
Just as with bikejoring, your dog needs a well-fitting harness to enjoy canicross. The harness needs to be comfortable without restricting movement. This means its should have padding and adjustable straps that ensure a snug fit.
Advantages of Bikejoring
Bikejoring is an appeal sport that has numerous advantages. For one, riding a bike with your dog can help you and them not only burn off unwanted energy but also build endurance and muscle strength. Bikejoring can be a great way to work your dog out physically, particularly if it is an energetic breed. As an owner, bikejoring provides you with a dynamic and exciting exercise form that enables you to explore various terrains and distances with your dog.
Disadvantages of Bikejoring
While bikejoring is a wonderful sport, it is not without its disadvantages. For one, you need to have a high level of control and biking skills compared to regular cycling. This is especially important when riding through challenging terrains or off-road. Furthermore, your dog might not be suited to bikejoring, especially if it is a breed that can get easily distracted or show extremely aggressive behaviour.
For this reason, it is important that you have the right training and bikejoring harness like the Neewa Adjustable Racing Harness. If your dog is not properly socialised and trained, bikejoring can become a dangerous affair. This is why you should always prioritise safety and work with your dog’s behaviour to make the best decisions when bikejoring.
Advantages of Canicross
Just as with bikejoring, canicross has various advantages for you and your doggo. Regular runs can provide physical exercise for the dog, helping with weight management, improving muscle strength and cardiovascular health. Running can also stimulate your dog’s wellbeing, providing it with an opportunity for sensory stimulation and exploration. When you think about it, canicross offers you and your pet the opportunity to remain active, improve your fitness and bond while enjoying all that nature has to offer.
Disadvantages of Canicross
While it can be a wonderful sport, there are some disadvantages that you need to consider. For one, choosing to run with your dog requires commitment and dedication on your part. This is because regular exercise is essential for both of you to remain in shape. You have to take into account your dog’s size, breed, and temperament, as you will have to adjust your running style and pace to ensure it remains comfortable.
Furthermore, canicross might not be best for dogs that have certain conditions, such as breeds known to have respiratory issues. Before engaging in canicross or any type of activity, it is best to consult with a veterinarian to get the all-clear.
Conclusion
The choice between bikejoring and canicross depends on your individual preference, your dog’s personality, and how engaged you want to be. If you are going bikejoring then you should consider the Neewa Sled Pro Harness. This harness has been designed for wolf-like breeds ensuring your large dog is always comfortable when bikejoring or canicrossing. This article can be a great guide that introduces you to the world of bikejoring and canicross.