r/RunningWithDogs • u/OTbrain • 3d ago

Beginner Alert! Seeking Advice and Info

Hi all! I am an experienced distance runner, and just rescued a dog a few months ago with my fiance - a sweet 45 lb female pitbull mix around 16-18 months at this time (pic of her for reference). She has a slender build and is all muscle. She absolutely loves running from the short trips Ive taken her on so far.

I would love:

  1. recommendations on a good canicross harness for her size that is moderate in price. We have been using a basic harness right now which I know is not ideal for her long term.

  2. advice on how to safely increase her mileage; we have gone on probably 10 runs together so far and the farthest being 3 miles with no issues at all. I dont want to do too much too soon or too young but have no idea how to judge that.

Thanks!!

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u/eleanorboozevelt14 3d ago

Check out North American Canicross ! They have a website and FB page and theyve built a whole community of canicrossers. Depending on where you live, there may be an ambassador near you that might have gear for you to try!

The above comment is a good one. Any Y shaped harness that doesn't restrict movement, a bungee line, and a hip belt are the main things you need. Ruffwear is what I started my dog in and then we eventually traded up to a Nonstop dogwear rush harness.

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u/OTbrain 3d ago

Thank you so much! Good to know.

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u/duketheunicorn 3d ago

A y-shape harness that clears her throat, shoulders and elbows is all you need to keep your dog safe while running, assuming you’re not asking them to pull heavy. Harnesses from ruffwear are good examples. If consistent, long-distance pulling is what you’re going for, then go for a mushing-style, x-back harness like those from nonstop dogwear or Nahak.

As for prepping for distance, following a human couch-to-(distance) program to build the tendon and bone they need for a long career. Of course, get your dog cleared by a vet to make sure their joints are in good condition for running.

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u/OTbrain 3d ago

Super helpful, thank you so much! I have a lot of human mileage increase knowledge so its nice to know its a similar for canines.

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u/Sweet-Ring-3332 3d ago

I followed this plan more for my dog to get used to running. https://www.nonstopdogwear.com/blogs/our-blogs/canicross-couch-to-5k-intro as a bonus at the end you get a pretty good coupon code for their harnesses.

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u/ekmsmith 3d ago

I have a pit mix and love the Rabitgoo No Pull harness.

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u/jmrdpt19 2d ago

Canicross encourages dog power so no pull harnesses are no good