SOME say you've got to be barking, others believe six legs are better than two.

But next weekend the fun-take on the Tough Mudder series for dog-owners is coming to the Tweed Valley.

The new event for canine carers who think nothing of crossing rivers, running through muddy sumps and leaping over fallen trees alongside their faithful friends will take place at Traquair.

The Ruff Dugger is an obstacle-laden trail run for adventurous runners and their dogs.

The event only launched two years ago, but having seen a hugely enthusiastic response to earlier races in East Ayrshire and Lanarkshire, Ruff Dugger is heading east on Saturday, May 21.

Lindsay Johnson, from organisers Cani-Fit, told us: "Previous events have involved lots of hills, but this one will be a little different.

"We’ll be running through the stunning grounds of Traquair House on what will be a fun, technical route with lots of obstacles to negotiate.

"The course is full of character and will be a real challenge for both runners and dogs.

"Ruff Dugger is such an adventure. People invariably cross the finishing line soaked to the skin, covered in mud, and with big grins on their faces.

"The dogs love it too.”

Billed as a test of determination and team work between owner and dog, participants at Traquair will tackle a course full of natural obstacles, from river crossings and mud pits to ancient woodland features, before navigating a rather famous man-made obstacle – the largest hedged maze in Scotland.

It is expected that more than 150 dogs and their owners will converge on Traquair, where there will be a small event village throughout the day. Competitors can run solo or as a pair, with two routes for different age groups: approximately 2k for ages 7-14 and around 5k for ages 15+.

Dogs must be 12 months or older, and be fit and healthy.

Past events have seen every imaginable breed take part, from King Charles Spaniels to Great Danes.

Judging by the entries already flooding in, Traquair looks ready to add another cult classic to its calendar of events, which includes the renowned Mighty Deerstalker.

Catherine Maxwell Stuart from Traquair House added: "We are delighted to host this new Ruff Dugger event, which is shaping up to be like a Deerstalker with dogs!

"It’s going to be a lot of fun for all involved."

For more information, and to enter, visit www.ruffdugger.co.uk