Are You Joining Our Group Runs? You Definitely Should!
One of the most rewarding comments I hear from newcomers when they come to their first group run is, “Wow, that was way more fun than I anticipated!” And after a few days, it’s often followed by, “I was a bit sore the next day… but in a good way! 🙂”
Many people think you need to be super fast and maintain that fast pace for 5 km, but that’s not what our group runs are about at all.
Why You Should Be Coming to Group Runs:
It’s a great place to meet new people, to socialize with your dog, and tire them out at the same time. Group runs are not only good for physical exercise but they are mentally draining too. When you’re running with a dog, it’s always hard to know what they are going to do if they come across another dog, or if a random animal in the woods catches your dog’s attention while you guys are running. Well, a group run is the best place to find out this information. It’s a no-stress and fun environment with people who have all started where you are starting and can answer if not all , most of your questions
What to Expect at Our Group Runs:
When you arrive, we gather in the parking lot to gear up. If it’s your first time and you’d like us to check your equipment, just give us a shout—we’re here to help, and we want to make sure everything fits just right.
If you don’t have a harness or running belt, if we know ahead of time, we can bring one for you to try before you buy.
After the gear check, we start with a brief warm-up, let the dogs take a bathroom break, and discuss the day’s route. Then, we walk to the trailhead and set off, either running, biking, or hiking.
Our format is simple:
We run for a stretch, then stop and regroup, ensuring no one is left behind. This cycle continues until we complete our route.
You decide how far you want to run—if you’re up for a 5-8 km challenge, fantastic! We’ll map it out. Feeling more like a gentle 3 km jog? No problem, we’ll loop back to the start and drop you off at the car.
Don’t worry about your pace. We organize runners by speed: the faster runners lead the way, and those who have a slower pace follow. Whether you sprint or stroll, remember—it’s all about having fun, not racing…. Well maybe a little bit of racing 
Group runs are fantastic learning environments for your dog, especially when you first introduce your dog to a harness.
Normally most dogs are used to walking beside you and are usually told not to pull, but now you are now asking them to run in front of you and pull you. In the beginning it can be hard for them to figure out what you’re asking of them.
The good news is Niko and Luka have been racing for a couple of years now, so they are able to lead, which is excellent for newcomers as most dogs will naturally want to chase and follow. After a few group runs, your dog will start to understand what you want from them when they are in the harness.
Want to join Us: Where and When?
Details about our runs are posted in our private Facebook group. Check there for updates from either us or other members. If you plan to join a run, please comment on the post so we know to expect you—we’ll make sure to wait.
If you’re hesitating about coming— Just go for it! We hope to see you there!
P.S. As patio season kicks off, when we run in Innisfail, we often head to Forge and Fire for a post-run beer. It’s a great way to cap off a good run and they allow dogs on the patio!
