• CX Run Club Race Calendar: https://www.cxruncalendar.com
• DogFit harnesses: https://dogfit.co.uk
• Episode 20 on parkrun changes to rules for dogs
• Canicross Midlands: https://www.canicrossmidlands.co.uk
• British Sleddog Sports Federation (BSSF): https://www.thebssf.org.uk

Today, Louise chats to Kerry Burridge about how she got into canicross with her two lurchers, Willow and Hazel, and how they reacted when there was a new pup introduced to the pack who isn't a Lurcher.

@thelazylurchers

In this episode of Canicross Conversations, Michelle and Louise chat to Jo from Dorwest, a leading natural pet supplement company with a deep history in herbal care.

Jo shares the Dorwest journey, how their products support active dogs, and offers practical, evidence-based advice on keeping your canicross companion healthy.

Listeners will gain insights into physical demands on dogs, early signs of stress or overuse, and what to do when your dog needs recovery support especially in peak mileage seasons. From mobility to calming aids, and even how to manage gut issues during race days, Jo’s expertise offers a holistic look at dog welfare in sport. You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at how Dorwest sources ingredients, works with vets, and develops products based on real-world feedback from working and sporting dogs.

Whether you’re new to canicross or training at a high level, this conversation is packed with useful tips to help your dog thrive on and off the trails.

1.10 – the Dorwest story and Jo’s background 5.50 – what canicross dogs need: joints, gut, stress & more 11.40 – key products for active dogs: mobility, recovery, calming 19.05 – common problems at races and how to support your dog 26.15 – inside Dorwest: sourcing, safety, vet testing 31.30 – Jo’s top 3 tips for dog wellbeing

@dorwestherbs on Instagram & Facebook

For 10% off at dorwest.com use code CANICROSS10

In this episode, Michelle and Louse chat to Jamie Stevenson, with a focus on the ICF World Championships last month, and his role in the BSSF as monosports rep.

Listen for behind‑the‑scenes insight into how the International Canicross Federation (ICF) World Championships work — from selection via the British Sleddog Sports Federation (BSSF), to the challenges of visas, travel, and dog‑friendly logistics across Europe. Jamie reflects on the highs and challenges of international competition — including the rush of a mass‑start, the thrill of representing Britain, and the necessary balance between competitive drive, dog welfare, and everyday life.

We also hear live interviews with other British athletes gathered at the ICF World Championships by the BSSF.

NB: Please note that Jamie refers to Seb Coe heading up British Orienteering, when he meant to say Steve Cram

Links:

ICF - https://canicross.international/

BSSF - https://thebssf.org.uk/

• VJ Sports has moved from orienteering into trail/fell and now canicross‑relevant shoes by focusing on terrain‑specific grip (e.g., butyl rubber outsoles, variable stud lengths).
• Fit matters: multiple lasts (foot shapes) plus stud‑length differences (3 mm → 9 mm) mean choosing the right shoe for terrain and individual foot shape is important.
• Two contrasting models: a firmer, lower‑profile “race/technical” shoe (e.g., Max) vs a softer, higher‑cushion “longer run” shoe (e.g., Ultra) — both relevant, depending on run style.
• Canicrossers often face muddy, mixed‑terrain conditions with a pulling dog, so shoe demands differ from road running; community feedback is driving a bespoke “monster truck” future model for this niche.
• Try‑before‑you‑buy remains important, especially with trail/canicross shoes. Online reviews help but foot shape / terrain matter.
• Shoe care counts: wash with hot soapy water and air dry (avoid radiators/dryers) to extend lifespan of technical outsoles.
• Sizing guidance: VJ is “true to UK size” except one model (MAXx 2) which comes up a half‑size larger — always check empirically.

• VJ  Shoes Website
• @vjsportsshoes on Instagram
• BSSF race series

• 00:01:24 – 00:02:03 – Lisa introduces herself, her dogs Barley (3) and Biscuit (2), and how the journey began.
• 00:02:03 – 00:03:03 – Lisa talking about her mental rut, the Instagram reel, and joining a local canicross club.
• 00:03:03 – 00:04:08 – Early struggles with Couch‐to‑5K, joining social runs, and how the club helped.
• 00:04:08 – 00:05:01 – The welcome, supportive culture of the club; no one gets left behind.
• 00:05:01 – 00:07:00 – How the dogs got into it: Barley’s progression, Biscuit’s natural pull, the feeling of working as a team.
• 00:07:00 – 00:10:30 – Race stories: first event experience, the joy of finishing, the difference between a “race” and “an event you enjoy”.
• 00:10:30 – 00:12:11 – Dog behaviours: reactivity, start‑line nerves, and how events accommodate that.
• 00:12:11 – 00:16:10 – Running with dogs vs running solo: the difference, the benefit of solo sessions, the concept of “easy runs”.
• 00:16:10 – 00:20:05 – Goals: signed up for 10 K, training together, accepting your pace, moving more and more.
• 00:20:05 – 00:25:00 – Motivation, how to start: tip to “just do it”, find a local club, support matters.

• Instagram account: @RunningWithCrows
• Canicross Ireland
• Stop Walking Your Dog book Podcast episode 108 (March 2024) with Niki French
• Membership: Pilates / strength training membership offered by Louise Humphrey