Ask The Expert: Dog Grooming for Canicrossers (Episode 182)

In this episode, Louise and Michelle are joined by Anna Pollard of The Dog House Canine Spa in Leicestershire to explore how best to care for your dog’s coat, especially when you’re into canicross and other active dog sports.

Anna shares her insights from years of grooming experience, explaining why proper maintenance of the coat and skin isn't just cosmetic but a key part of your dog’s wellbeing and performance.

The conversation covers coat types (single vs double coat), grooming routines for active dogs, the role of brushing and bathing, pad and nail care, seasonal changes, and much more.

Whether you’re a seasoned canicrosser or just beginning to run with your dog, this episode offers practical tips to help your canine companion feel and perform at their best — and maybe convert a non‑groomer into a regular brusher! Expect to learn how coat condition affects temperature regulation, how friction from harnesses can lead to matting, and how pad health and nails tie into overall musculoskeletal wellbeing.

Timings

• 0:00 – Introduction 
• 1:40 – Why grooming is important for active/canicross dogs
• 3:15 – How a coat works: insulation, heat regulation
• 5:45 – Brushing vs clipping: which to choose?
• 7:50 – Harness friction and matting danger zones
• 10:00 – Coats types: single vs double vs hybrid
• 12:30 – What is hand‑stripping and when to consider it
• 16:15 – How often should you brush and bathe?
• 20:20 – Choosing shampoos & avoiding human products
• 22:50 – After muddy runs: rinse or bathe?
• 24:30 – Nail length, pad health & impact on joints/gait
• 28:10 – Seasonal coat length and shedding challenges
• 31:00 – Heating, fleas and indoor environment effects
• 33:40 – Harness the expert: starting canicross: gear, pace, where to train
• 37:10 – Closing discussion & guest contact info
• 40:00 – Outro and call for reviews

Links

• The Dog House Canine Spa website thedoghouseleicester.co.uk
• Instagram: @thedoghouse_spa
• Facebook: The Dog House Canine Spa