Doggy Days Out

The South Downs makes brilliant dog-running country, and this trail run from Goodwood offers canicross entries across all three distances: 12k, 16k, and 21k. You and the dog will take on forest tracks and shaded bridleways out into the national park before the final climb back to the finish.

Running with your dog and finishing off with a pint makes for a pretty good Sunday if you ask us! The 10k Canicross race starts at the Ramsbury Estate in Wiltshire and takes you through trails, woodland, and footpaths before heading back to the brewery for a cold one.

Runners World has named this one of the country’s Top 50 races, and it’s a good one if your dog likes a challenge. The canicross is 5km or 10km on a hilly, technical course above Bath, starting from the university. Watch your footing as much as the view.

This 10-mile canicross loop of Grafham Water in Cambridgeshire is built for dogs from the start, running from the dam and round the reservoir through woodland and a nature reserve. Every finisher gets a medal and their dog a charm, plus water bowls and treats along the way.

This 5k at Irchester Country Park is great for canicross newbies. You’ll run over grass, dirt, and woodland tracks, with experts on hand to help you get going. Every finisher gets a medal (and dog treats!), plus free race photos.

The Dormouse Challenge is a relaxed six-hour event in Salcey Forest where dogs are very welcome. You run a 5k lap as many times as you like within the time limit, whether that’s one steady lap, a few fast ones, or a long day of them.