Canicross with a nervous dog: Emily and Max (Episode 201)

Emily shares the story of Max, her timid and easily spooked Weimaraner who initially struggled with wearing a harness or coping with everyday noises such as wind.    As a behaviourist, Emily offers valuable insight into working with nervous dogs, including how to approach training without pressure, why progress isn’t always linear, and how small wins can lead to big breakthroughs. The conversation explores practical techniques such as using positive reinforcement, tracking progress through video, and introducing confidence-building experiences in a safe and supportive way.   Listeners will also hear how unexpected moments - like running with another dog or entering a first race - can unlock a dog’s potential. Max’s transformation from a fearful dog to a confident canicross racer, even achieving a fourth-place finish, highlights that success doesn’t require a “perfect” dog.   This episode is packed with reassurance, actionable advice, and encouragement for anyone navigating life with a sensitive or reactive dog, showing that with the right approach, canicross can be accessible to all.   Timings 0.00 – Introduction to Max’s transformation 1.05 – Max’s early behaviour and harness aversion 3.10 – First steps into canicross and early challenges 5.19 – Ruling out pain and understanding behaviour 8.44 – Measuring progress and staying motivated 11.23 – Breakthrough moments in training 12.50 – First race expectations vs reality 14.53 – Emotional finish and confidence growth 18.44 – Running with two dogs and building a team 22.00 – Equipment setup and race strategy 24.52 – Advice for owners of nervous dogs 25.21 – Handling setbacks and real-life challenges 32.20 – Managing reactivity during runs 34.27 – Goals and future plans 36.30 – Favourite race experience   Links   Episode 17 – Harness aversion Canix UK races Beat the Black Dog Canitrail event Perfect Dog Training (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok)