Prepare well for my Woofest
Taking part in a race like Woofest requires preparation so that both dog and human are ready on race day and everyone can fully enjoy this special moment. If this is your first time participating or you feel a little lost as the race approaches, you will find valuable advice on this page.
What equipment should you bring for Woofest?
A complete canicross or cani-hiking setup consists of:
- A pulling harness for your dog
- A leash with shock absorber in the right length
- A canicross harness or a cani-hiking belt for the human
- A collar suitable for sports
- A walking leash
The pulling harness
In canicross, as in all harnessed dog sports, a pulling harness is mandatory. This type of harness is designed to allow the dog to pull efficiently and safely. For optimal pulling performance, we also recommend choosing long harnesses (often X-back types) rather than short harnesses (known as “H” or “Y” types).
Walking harnesses known as “T” or “Norwegian” harnesses are not suitable for pulling and are therefore not permitted in races.
The canicross leash with shock absorber
The canicross or cani-hiking leash connects the dog’s harness to the human’s harness or belt. It is elastic to absorb shocks and prevent it from dragging on the ground when the dog is not pulling.
A canicross leash should be 2m long when extended and approximately 1.2m at rest. You can attach it to your harness with a lark’s head knot, a snap hook, or a carabiner, depending on your model.
The canicross harness or cani-hiking belt
If you practice canicross regularly, we recommend using a harness designed specifically for this sport. This allows you to run freely, while the dog’s pulling force is positioned at your pelvis for greater control and comfort.
For occasional use or for greater simplicity (easier to put on and adjust), you can choose a cani-hiking belt. However, the pulling force will be positioned higher than with a harness, which is less comfortable for your back and may throw you off balance.
The collar
Choke, prong, and electric collars are prohibited in races. Therefore, use a standard collar and make sure it is not too tight.
A semi-slip collar prevents an agitated dog from removing it when pulling on it while promoting breathing during the race.
PREPARING YOUR DOG PROPERLY
An event such as a race can cause stress for your dog if they are not used to crowds, seeing other dogs, or wearing a harness, for example. Properly preparing your dog therefore means first getting them used to race conditions.
Our main advice is to practice canicross or cani-walking regularly and in groups during the months leading up to the race, so that your dog (and you too!) can get used to it.
Do not hesitate to contact an FSLC club, which will be happy to welcome and support you!
A healthy dog
Before registering for Woofest, make sure that your dog is healthy and accustomed to the type of effort you will be sharing. If in doubt, a visit to the veterinarian is essential!
Our advice for race day
It’s the big day! Do not change your habits more than necessary, so as not to stress your four-legged companion.
Feeding on race day
It is important that your dog has completely finished digesting before exercising. It is therefore advisable to leave at least 12h between the last meal and any strenuous exercise (both racing and training). However, a familiar mini-snack (no new foods on race day!) can be given safely up to 1h30 before the race, along with small amounts of water.
During the race, you must not prevent your dog from cooling off at a water point. They can take a little water into their mouth, but do not let them drink excessively. Likewise, at the finish, do not let your dog gulp down large amounts of water. However, feel free to wet their coat to help them cool down if needed.
Once they have calmed down, approximately 30 minutes after finishing, you can let your dog drink freely and possibly give them a snack (or a few pieces of kibble) to eat.
Finally, we recommend giving them their usual meal once you are back home and they have calmed down.
Keeping your dog under control at all times
There is a high concentration of dogs at a race. To avoid incidents, it is therefore essential that everyone keeps their dog under control on a leash at all times. If your dog is stressed or agitated, keep your distance so they can calm down. Listen to your dog!
Good to know: our Crosstrail and Crossmax canicross leashes have a very practical handle on the dog’s side, allowing you to keep your dog close when necessary.
Know the rules
Make sure you are familiar with the rules of the race you wish to enter. These rules are established to ensure everyone’s safety. Knowing them well will help you manage your race and the various situations you may encounter.
Starts and overtaking
Starts and overtaking are two moments that can sometimes be difficult to manage during a race. If this is your dog’s first race, pay particular attention to their reactions, which may be unusual. React immediately, always prioritizing the safety and comfort of your team and the other competitors in the final standings.
At the start, if your dog is particularly excited or stressed, do not hesitate to distance yourself from the other competitors by positioning yourself to the side or at the back. This tactic will prevent you from inconveniencing other competitors and will channel your dog, who will certainly want to catch up with those ahead.
If you want to overtake a competitor, announce yourself by calling “TRACK!” and possibly “left” or “right,” depending on which side you want to pass on. If necessary, keep your dog close during the overtake.
If a competitor wants to overtake you and calls “TRACK!”, you must facilitate the overtake by moving aside, slowing down gradually, and holding your dog if necessary.
By following this advice, we are sure that you and your dog will get the most out of your Woofest. We can’t wait for the next one!