5 Tips for Hiking with Dogs

Written By Olivia Arent

1.Choose dog-friendly trails

Research the trail: Make sure dogs are allowed on the trail you plan to hike. Check for any specific rules or restrictions, such as the dog must be on a leash at all times or in certain areas.

Consider the terrain: Choose a trail that matches your dog's fitness level and avoid excessively rocky or steep paths if your dog is not accustomed to them.

2. Be prepared

Check the weather

  • Avoid extreme temperatures: Dogs can suffer from heatstroke or hypothermia more easily than humans. Plan your hike to avoid very hot or cold weather.

  • Protect their paws: Hot surfaces can burn your dog's paws. Consider using dog booties if the ground is too hot. You may also want to consider using dog booties or Musher’s Secret to protect your dog’s paws from being on snow and ice for extended periods of time.

  • Have appropriate layers: The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so be sure to check the forecast and plan accordingly. Have extra warm, dry layers with you in case you need them. Your dog may benefit from having a warm layer or a cooling layer depending on your dog’s breed and the temperature. 

Know the route

  • You should be familiar with the route you plan to take so you can estimate how long you will be out for

  • Be aware of any obstacles you may encounter, such as a river crossing or steep rocky section

  • Know what wildlife you may encounter and have a plan if you encounter that animal to keep you and your dog safe.

Know your dog: Know your dog’s fitness level and watch for signs of exhaustion, such as excessive panting, slowing down, or limping. You may need to slow down to match your dog’s pace and take breaks as needed.

Have plenty of food and water: Be sure you have a few extra snacks for yourself and your dog. Carry enough water for yourself and your dog. A stream that was rushing in the spring that your dog drank from could be dry in the summer or fall.

Tell someone your plan: Tell a trusted friend, family member, or neighbor where you are going and how long you think you will be out, just in case something happens. Check-in with them after your hike so they know you are safe.

3. Skills your dog should know

Walk on a loose leash: For the safety of yourself and your dog, your dog should know how to walk on a loose leash. It will be uncomfortable and dangerous for your dog and yourself if your dog is pulling the whole hike.

Come when called: Your dog should know this skill if they are on- or off-leash. It is important to get your dog’s attention and call them to you when you see other people or dogs on the trail, wildlife, or obstacles in the trail. This is especially important if your dog is off-leash, however, you shouldn't rely on pulling your dog on-leash to bring them to you or move away from something.

Wait on the side of the trail while others pass: It is proper trail etiquette to ask your dog to wait on the side of the trail while other hikers pass. Not all hikers like dogs or want to interact with them on their hike. It is best to assume that other people and dogs don’t want to interact with your dog and move to the side of the trail to allow them to pass without interacting with your dog. After your dog comes to you or moves to the side of the trail with you, you are welcome to ask the other hikers if they would like to interact with your dog, but you should never assume they want to. 

Bonus skills:

  • Walk next to you on cue

  • Walk behind you on cue

  • Wait on cue

  • Able to jump or station on an object on cue

  • Seeing people or dogs on the trail as a cue to come to you

4. Equipment

First Aid Kit: No matter how long your hike is, you should always have a first aid kit. A plastic sandwich bag with a few bandaids, gauze, vet wrap, alcohol wipes, Benadryl, Advil, gloves, and toilet paper will help both you and your dog in minor situations. 

Leash: You should have a leash with you at all times. Even if your dog is great off-leash, you never know when you might need to leash your dog for their own safety. A long leash is a great way to give your dog more freedom if they cannot be off-leash or the trail requires dogs to be on-leash.

Harness: “Y”-shaped harnesses should be used on dogs while hiking, especially if your dog needs to be on a leash or has the tendency to pull. The harness distributes tension across the dog’s body which is much safer for your dog than concentrating it on their neck like a collar does. They also make harnesses with handles on the dog’s back so you have better control when helping navigate obstacles or holding your dog while others pass. 

Bag: You should have a well-fitting backpack or fanny pack that you can wear to carry all of your gear and your dog’s gear. The size of the bag can depend on the length of the hike. A tip is to have one bag dedicated to hikes with your dog so you can simply grab it and go when it is time for your next adventure. 

Food and water: It is really important to have enough food and water with you on your hike for you and your dog. You and your dog will be in better spirits and have better energy if you are staying hydrated and fueled with proper snacks. Bring some of your dog’s favorite treats to reward them for good behavior during the hike, for a snack break, and a reward for their hard work. If you are going for a longer hike, you may want to consider bringing a portion or their meal or doggie energy bars to help your dog have enough fuel to make it through the hike. You should also have a way for your dog to drink water, such as a collapsible water bowl.

5. Leave no trace

Pick up after your dog: Carry waste bags and dispose of your dog’s waste properly. A reusable water bottle with a screw lid, such as a Nalgene, makes a great dog waste carrier that will hold in the stink. 

Stay on the trail: Encourage your dog to stay on marked trails to protect wildlife and avoid disturbing the natural environment.

Reach out if you have any questions or need help teaching your dog skills for a safe, enjoyable hike!

Happy Trails!

Olivia Arent