Trotting Dog

About

Explore our island with your four-legged companion

Welcome to Trotting Dog, where your hiking and running with dogs adventure on the beautiful Isle of Wight begins. We are the island's first, and only, Dogfit Canicross trainer, dedicated to helping you and your four-legged companion safely explore the stunning landscapes and extensive trail running network of the island. Our mission is to make the experience of running and hiking with your dog accessible, fun, and safe for everyone, whether you're a local or a visitor enjoying our beautiful island.

What is canicross? A unique way to discover the Isle of Wight

Canicross is a fast-growing, hands-free sport that transforms a simple run into a dynamic team effort. By using a specialised harness for your dog and a comfortable waist belt for you, both connected by a bungee line, your dog can pull you along. This unique partnership takes the strain off you and turns your run into an exhilarating shared adventure. It’s an incredible way to bond with your dog, get fit, and experience the Isle's great outdoors in a truly unique way. For those who prefer a slower pace, cani-hiking uses the same essential equipment, allowing you to walk with your dog in harness, enjoying the same shared effort on our amazing trails.

Why choose Trotting Dog? Unlocking the island's best dog-friendly trails

At Trotting Dog, we are passionate about showing you the very best of the Isle of Wight. We offer a range of guided trail cani-hiking and canicross experiences tailored to different abilities and breeds (over 12 months old). Our services are more than just a walk or run; they are an opportunity to learn proper technique, understand your dog’s behaviour, and discover the Isle of Wight from a new perspective. Our routes are personally vetted and 'sniff-tested' by us to ensure they are the safest and most enjoyable dog-friendly trails available. We handle all the navigation, so you can simply focus on the fun and the beautiful scenery. 

Our services: Guided experiences for every adventure

We offer a range of services designed to suit a variety of needs, whether you're here for a weekend break or you call the Isle of Wight home.

Canicross taster sessions 

Perfect for visitors who want to try something new, our one-to-one and group taster sessions are the ideal introduction to the sport. We provide a friendly, hands-on overview of canicross, including essential kit fitting, an introduction to key commands, and a gentle taster walk or run. It’s a fun, no-pressure way to see if canicross is for you and your dog, allowing you to explore a beautiful island trail with expert guidance.

Family group sessions

Looking for a unique family activity? Canicross is also a fantastic way to get the whole family active! Our bespoke private group sessions are designed to be fun, engaging, and suitable for children (age restrictions apply). We teach you how to safely enjoy canicross as a family, fostering a love for the outdoors and teamwork in a controlled and supportive environment.

Medium and long-distance trail walks and runs

For those who want to discover new trails, or simply enjoy a challenge, we offer guided medium and long-distance guided run/walk canicross sessions. These are a fantastic way to experience the Isle of Wight's extensive network of footpaths and bridleways. We will take you on our own 'sniff-tested' routes, ensuring you and your dog get the perfect blend of exercise and adventure. These sessions are perfect for improving endurance, exploring new scenery, and meeting other passionate dog owners who share your love for the outdoors.

Dog-friendly trail discovery

Our expertise lies in knowing the best routes on the Island that are suitable for running with dogs. We can create bespoke guided tours based on your location and fitness level, from scenic coastal paths to challenging forest trails. Let us guide you to the Isle of Wight’s hidden gems and most spectacular views, all from the perspective of a happy, dog-friendly team.

At Trotting Dog, we handle all the worries - whether it’s a dog that doesn’t pull, a nervous temperament, or a concern about your own fitness level - so you can focus on the fun. To learn more about our services and begin your new canicross adventure, please visit our website: www.trottingdog.com.