Why Work With Us
North American Canicross founders Alexis Karpf and Jacqui Johnson became Certified CaniFit Canicross Trainers in March 2026, completing their certification through CaniFit, a Scotland-based organization that has been leading canicross instruction since 2011. CaniFit has introduced hundreds of people to the sport through its in-person classes across Scotland and has trained countless teams worldwide through its internationally recognized education programs.
In addition to their CaniFit certification, Alexis and Jacqui recently partnered with Non-stop Dogwear to develop a comprehensive five-week training program for Cani Obstacle Course Racing (CaniOCR). This collaboration reflects NACC's ongoing commitment to providing high-quality education, practical training, and trusted resources for canicross athletes at every stage of their journey.
Beginner Canicross Clinic
10:00–11:00 AM (No Equipment Required)
Perfect for anyone new to canicross or just getting started with a puppy or adult dog. No canicross equipment is required.
This class focuses on building the partnership before running. Learn the foundation skills every successful canicross team needs through fun games, communication exercises, and proper equipment education.
Topics Include:
- Introduction to canicross
- Building a strong partnership with your dog
- Teaching body awareness and rear-end awareness
- Communication and engagement games
- Foundation training exercises
- Choosing the right canicross equipment
- Proper harness and belt fitting
- Safety fundamentals and best practices
- Open Q&A
Who Should Attend:
- New canicross teams
- Puppy owners
- Anyone interested in learning about the sport
- Dog owners wanting to improve communication and teamwork
Intermediate Canicross Clinic
12:00–1:00 PM (Equipment Required)
Designed for teams ready to begin structured canicross training. Canicross equipment is required for this class.
The first half of the class will take place indoors, where we'll discuss training concepts and demonstrate techniques. The second half will move outdoors, where participants will practice the skills with their dogs in harness.
Topics Include:
- Developing safe and effective pulling techniques
- Building motivation and forward drive
- Teaching directional commands (Gee, Haw, Haw, On By, Easy, etc.)
- Start-line routines
- Strengthening communication while in motion
- Practical training exercises in harness
- Troubleshooting common training challenges
- Open Q&A
Who Should Attend:
- Teams with properly fitted canicross equipment
- Dogs comfortable wearing a canicross harness
- Handlers ready to begin structured canicross training
Advanced Canicross Clinic
2:00–3:00 PM (Equipment Required)
Designed for experienced canicross teams looking to refine their skills in a group setting. Canicross equipment is required.
This class will be conducted primarily outdoors, focusing on real-world race situations and advanced teamwork.
Topics Include:
- Advanced pulling techniques
- Building and maintaining consistent drive
- Group running etiquette
- Head-on passing techniques
- Overtaking another team safely
- Being passed from behind
- Maintaining focus around distractions
- Race-day handling and communication
- Troubleshooting common race scenarios
- Open Q&A
Who Should Attend:
- Experienced canicross teams
- Dogs confidently pulling in harness
- Teams preparing for races
- Participants looking to improve handling and passing skills
