Hiking with your dog can be a wonderful experience for both you and your furry friend. However, before you hit the trails, it’s important to be prepared and keep your dog’s safety in mind. Here are 10 things you should know before you go hiking with your dog:
1. Check Local Regulations:
Before you plan your hiking trip, make sure to check local regulations. Some hiking trails may not allow dogs or may require them to be on a leash. Many national parks do not allow dogs on their trails and rules vary for national forests and state/local parks. Check the specific park’s website prior to your hiking trip for each trail’s specific protocol on bringing your dog.
2. Know Your Dog’s Limits:
Just like people, dogs have different levels of fitness and stamina. Know your dog’s limits and choose a trail that is appropriate for their age, breed, and fitness level. Brachycephalic dogs like Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, and Boston Terriers may not be well suited for intense hiking. These dogs have shorter facial bones making it harder to get air into their lungs during vigorous exercise.
3. Bring Plenty of Water and Snacks:
Hiking can be strenuous, especially for dogs. Be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks for both you and your dog to stay hydrated and energized. Consider investing in a portable water bottle so you always have water available for your pup.
4. Pack a First-Aid Kit:
Accidents can happen on the trail, so it’s important to pack a first-aid kit for both you and your dog. Include items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers. While we hope you never need to use it, it’s always best to be prepared just in case.
5. Use a Leash:
Even if your dog is well-behaved, it’s important to use a leash on the trail. This will prevent your dog from wandering off or getting into dangerous situations. Consider a 20-foot leash so your dog has a little more freedom but can still be brought back closer to you when others are passing by or there is dangerous terrain.
6. Watch for Wildlife:
Hiking with your dog can attract wildlife, such as bears or snakes. Keep an eye out for any potential dangers and be prepared in case of an encounter. This is why using a leash is so important – should a wild animal be spotted, stay calm, bring your dog closer to you, and back away slowly from large animals like bears.
7. Protect Your Dog from the Elements:
Depending on the weather, hiking can expose your dog to the elements. Just like human’s dogs are prone to sunburn and other complications involving the outdoor weather. While not every dog may need as intense protection you can guard them from the sun with sunscreen, pack a raincoat if it will be raining, and bring a jacket or sweater if it’s cold.
8. Leave No Trace:
When hiking with your dog, it’s important to follow the Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out all trash and waste and staying on designated trails. Consider the hikers who may come after you and pick up all dog waste.
9. Check for Ticks:
Hiking with your dog can expose them to ticks, which can carry diseases. Check your dog for ticks after your hike and remove any you find. Be sure to do this in a well-lit area and check your dog’s entire body. Look between their toes, around their legs, ears, eyes, chin, neck, and around the tail.
10. Be Prepared for Emergencies:
In case of an emergency, make sure to have a plan in place. Know the location of the nearest veterinary clinic and have a way to contact emergency services. Bring your cell phone fully charged in case you need to reach out for help and always let someone know where you will be hiking.
Hiking with your dog can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to be prepared and keep your dog’s safety in mind. Check local regulations, know your dog’s limits, bring plenty of water and snacks, pack a first-aid kit, use a leash, watch for wildlife, protect your dog from the elements, follow Leave No Trace principles, check for ticks, and be prepared for emergencies. Now that you know what to review before your hike, let’s go over What you Need to Know About Pet First Aid.
