Tails & Trails

Hiking with Dogs

I love my fur babies. I have two, a husky and a Labrador-Weimaraner mix. So of course Hubs and I love taking our little “poops,” as I so affectionately call my pups, on walks. Those walks often include hikes at local parks. Through our experiences we have compiled a list of advice for others and their four-legged children to help the hike be an enjoyable one.

1.  consult your dog’s veterinarian beforehand

                Make sure your dog is in the proper shape, doesn’t have allergies, etc. The dog doc will probably have some useful tips for you and your pooch before you hit the trails. Just like you should consult you your own doctor before beginning a new workout regime, you need to the same for your pup.

2. check the park’s rules

Are dogs allowed? What is the maximum leash length? Are dogs only allowed on certain trails? Make sure you research some before heading out on the trail.

3. always use a leash

I know, I’m guilty of letting my lab off at times, but frankly it isn’t safe or good trail etiquette for others. We recently passed a lady who was very afraid of dogs and made a wide loop around us over a narrow rocky pass even though all the dogs, there were four at the time, were on leashes and lysing down. Another time our lab was off and found something in leaves. I first thought it was a squirrel, but called him back and he came, thankfully, because in the leaves was a snake. Upon further investigation it was merely a king snake (nonvenomous), but we were lucky! One other time we were in the woods behind out house, where we go nearly every day, and off he went after some deer. Everything again was ok, but how many times can we push our luck?

It’s also so annoying when you have your dog on a leash and other people don’t, especially on a very crowded trail. They think because their dog is friendly nothing bad could happen. That isn’t true. Dogs, no matter how cuddly and cute, are still animals and can react to situations unpredictably. You never know when your dog will chase after some wildlife, another dog, or who knows what else! For the safety of your dog and others, please use a leash.

4. make sure your dog is good on the leash

Being pulled across creeks or down rocky hills is not fun nor is it safe, too often my dogs get passed off to Hubs (sorry Hubs!). I also have big dogs, about 75 and 55 pounds, so when they throw their weight I can feel a little out of control. When I feel like that, they know it and continue to pull. Hubs is definitely the pack leader so it works out better for everyone if he has them both. If you dog pulls and ignores commands and corrections, please rethink that long hike until after you have mastered a walk around the neighborhood and your dog knows you are in charge.

5. use the right type of collar or harness & leash

Make sure your dog can’t slip out of its collar and that a harness doesn’t encourage your dog to pull. You need to consider the comfort for your dog and what helps you feel in most control. We like this leash because the handle is padded, you can wear around the waist, and there is a built in short handle for more control.

6. bring plenty of water & snacks

We got a late start one early summer morning and ended up on too long of a trail with too little water. We had to find creeks for our dogs to lie in and running water for our dogs to drink. I would much rather carry the extra weight of too much water than ever stress about my dogs overheating again. Don’t forget a bowl! And just like you, your dog is burning a lot of calories and needs a snack break.

7. if you want your dog to carry its own food & water, then train with the pack before hitting the trails

                This helps in two ways. One, less weight for you! Two, your dog goes into work mode and less out of play mode. This helps your dog’s focus. Please, please, please don’t load your dog down the first time and go a really long distance. Ease into it with an empty pack, then a little weight, and never go above 10% above your dog’s total weight. Also, make sure the weight is equally divided. The temperature should also play into account when added a pack to your pup. (See #1 before incorporating a pack) Here is what Cesar Milan says about it. 

8. pest control

Double check that your dog is up to date with its medications. (See #1) Remember to check for ticks after. When pulling out a tick you need to ensure you get the head out. Watch the spot to make sure it’s healing properly and not developing into an allergic reaction or a disease ticks can carry. Click hereif you need more help with this. A bath at the end might be a good idea as well.

9. use proper trail etiquette

Not just for you, but your dog as well. Pick up anything left behind, so bring baggies. Be considerate of others on the trail especially when passing other dogs. Dogs are still animals and can be unpredictable; just because your dog is super friendly and submissive doesn’t mean that other hikers’ dogs are (See #3). Allow faster moving groups to pass you. If someone else’s dog is barking at yours, don’t stand and watch! Keep moving.

10. make sure the trail is a good fit for your dog

Dogs can’t tell you when they are tired and they will most likely be too excited to stop. The terrain should be gentle enough for your dog’s paw pads otherwise you may want to invest in some little booties. Consider as well the weather, the length of the trail, and the trail’s gradient. Just like you, your dog will need to prepare before going on a strenuous trail.

I’m not a perfect dog mom, but I do try my best to keep my dogs safe and happy (as well as Hubs and me). I hope you find these tips helpful and useful. Do your own research first if hiking is new to you and/or your dog. Your dog will love the exercise, being outside, and the bonding time with their #1 human, YOU!