Dogs must be on a lead attached to a well-fitted running harness worn by the dog at all times while competing in a race. Leads may be held in the hand or attached to a competitor’s waist belt.
In general dogs must run ahead of or alongside the competitor throughout a race. At no time may dogs be dragged forward by their lead. However it is acceptable for a dog to follow a competitor on a steep downhill or slow technical section, provided that the dog is not at any time being dragged forward by the competitor.
Competitors must do their utmost to ensure that their dogs do not interfere with other runners or dogs. When hailed by an overtaking competitor, they must give way to allow the competitor to overtake as soon as it is safe to do so. Overtaking competitors must give due warning before attempting to pass.
The use during a race of mobile phones, personal stereos, MP3 players or any similar device that impairs concentration or the ability to hear marshals or other runners is strictly forbidden. Anyone using such a device shall be liable to be eliminated from the race.
If any dog shall foul the ground while competing in a race, the competitor shall immediately remove the fouling, in accordance with the venue’s policies, from any area where it is likely to be trodden on before continuing with the race. Where required to completely remove fouling, competitors shall pick it up, and must carry it to and dispose of it responsibly in the receptacles provided. In such cases competitors must carry with them whilst racing a means of removing dog fouling.
Leads which are attached to a competitor’s waist belt must be no more than 2 metres in length and must incorporate a bungee or elasticated section or be made from an elastic material. Leads held in the hand must be no more than 1.7 metres in length. Leads should be measured at full extension.
Dogs must compete in a flat buckle or snap collar, which must bear the name and address of the dog’s owner inscribed on the collar or on a tag or plate attached to it.
Harnesses worn by dogs when taking part in a race must be well-fitted, must not constrict breathing, and must have the lead attachment on the upper back. Harnesses designed to deter dogs from pulling must not be used.
Competitors may not wear footwear with spikes, hard studs or similar projections on the soles which could injure the dog.