The Best Dog Breeds For Canicross
It is an increasingly popular discipline around the world, thanks to which you train and have fun with your pet. In the following article we will tell you which are the best dog breeds for canicross … so that you can start training as soon as possible.
What are the dog breeds for canicross ?
According to the rules of canicross , any dog can compete, as long as it is in good health and has passed veterinary controls. It is also required that they have a microchip and that the age ranges between 1 and 10 years of life.
But beyond that, the truth is that there are certain breeds of dogs more suitable than others to carry out this physical activity that can be quite exhausting for the animal (and its owner). These are the best:
1. Airedale terrier
This breed is originally from the United Kingdom – like most terriers – and is considered one of the strongest dogs due to its developed muscles. In addition, it is very resistant and active, which is why it is considered ideal to accompany us on a run or participate in canicross .
The Airedale Terrier – photo that opens this article – is very intelligent, obedient and docile. It responds very well to basic training and fulfills basic commands without problems. The only problem is that you need regular cleaning in your ears to avoid infections and daily brushing so that your hair does not get tangled.
2. Weimaraner
The also known as weimaraner is one of the most popular canicross dogs due to its resistance and ease of being trained. It is a very obedient breed that behaves perfectly and also has a lot of energy all the time.
Likewise, the Weimaraner has a short and thick coat that protects it from humidity and can be introduced into marshy terrain without difficulty. Its body is muscular and well proportioned, it has long and well developed legs, it has a very determined gait and it can jump both at ground level and at a certain height.
3. Border collie
This breed of Scottish origin is associated with herding, although it can also be an excellent idea to use it for canicross . This is because it is an animal more than intelligent and agile, as well as obedient. It is considered one of the best dogs to be trained and to participate in dog sports.
The border collie is strong, energetic, athletic and very fast, of medium size and has a double coat of hair (it protects it from low temperatures and water). When walking or running, it raises its legs little, so it seems that it moves furtively.
4. Belgian Shepherd
This is another of the canicross dogs due to its great intelligence, its ability to work and its excellent temperament. It has been used as a herding breed since its inception, but is best known for its auxiliary duties in the police (as are German shepherds). It is essential that it is trained and socialized from puppyhood to avoid disobedience.
The Belgian Shepherd measures about 60 centimeters and weighs around 40 kilos (the males). It has a robust and muscular body, short brown hair and large, pointed ears, black as well as its face.
5. Labrador retriever
Perhaps it is because it is one of the most chosen dogs as a pet, that it is quite obedient or that it has great physical resistance. The truth is that the labrador retriever is present in all canicross races .
Are there prohibited breeds for canicross ? Actually we have to talk about dogs not suitable for this discipline due to certain features of their physique. Among them we highlight those with brachycephalic syndrome: French bulldog, pug or Boston terrier, among others.
