Canicross dog breed: How Ed Warner found the perfect running partner in a poodle.
Exploring why the poodle is an underrated Canicross dog breed
Why poodles might be the unexpected champions of the trail.
When it comes to finding the ideal Canicross dog breed, few people would place poodles at the top of the list. But that’s exactly the journey Ed Warner, former chair of UK Athletics, has been on. What started as a mission to get fit for a skiing holiday turned into a passion for running and now Canicross thanks to his energetic and elegant running partner, Trixie the standard poodle.
In a recent episode of Canicross Conversations, Ed joined hosts Louise and Michelle to reflect on his surprising evolution from marathon runner to Canicross convert. Now in his 60s, Ed credits Canicross with keeping him active, grounded, and more connected than ever to his dog. The shift to running with Trixie has reshaped his routine, his goals, and even his understanding of what makes a great Canicross dog breed.
With her lean build, long legs, and impressive stamina, Trixie defies the fluffy stereotype. In fact, poodles originally bred as water retrievers have the intelligence, energy, and athleticism to make brilliant Canicross dogs. Ed’s story offers a humorous and heartfelt glimpse into what happens when you pair experience with enthusiasm and a breed full of surprises.
He admits the learning curve has been real: from experimenting with harnesses to understanding trail etiquette and the all-important commands. But the bond he’s formed with Trixie has made every step worthwhile.
“One stone, many birds”, Ed says. “We both get exercise; we both have fun.”
Thinking of getting started?
- Start slow with walk-run intervals
- Choose a harness that suits your dog’s shape and stride
- Be consistent with voice commands and encouragement
- Try Canicross-only races for a less stressful experience
- Join a local Canicross group to share tips and trails
Whether you’re new to the sport or simply looking for the best Canicross dog breed to match your pace, Ed and Trixie’s journey proves that the right dog with the right mindsetcan turn any run into an adventure.