Tips For Hiking With Dogs

Since I got my dog, one of our favorite things to do is to go hiking. Sometimes we just go to the local park and take some back trails in the woods, and sometimes we travel more to hike.  Short hikes and long hikes, we have done all of them. He even does really well sleeping in the backcountry in tents.  He is such a fun addition to a hike.  If you have a dog that you have never taken hiking I would highly recommend giving it a shot.  I am going to give some tips on how we got Canyon started hiking, so hopefully you can use some of these tips to go hiking with your pup. 

* My first tip would be to start slow.  Take your dog on little hikes and see how they do with it.  Nothing would be worse than going for a backcountry overnight trip only to discover that your dog hates hiking or can't handle the physical demand.  

*Gear wise I would get a nice sturdy leash that can be pulled on.  Most parks if they have a maximum leash length it is six feet so I always use that length just incase and it keeps me from have to buy multiples.  I use a leash from Wilderdog.  I also have a hiking backing that I picked up from Petsmart. I knew I wanted Canyon to have his own backpack because he can carry his poop bags once they get filled.  

*Speaking of poop bags, we are leave no trash hikers and so it is important to always hike out your animals waste.  I carry compostable poop bags and once they are used I tie them up and clip them to his backpack.  It is a simple backpack with only two pockets and I usually pack his treats in one side and his poop bags in the other.  I usually hike his water bottle bowl and food out myself.  

*A bowl with a water bottle connected is a must purchase and I can't believe I ever hiked without it.  I use this one  - it makes keeping your dog hydrated so convenient.  I always filter Canyon's water the same way I filter mine with a Sawyer filter. Pups can get sick from dirty water just like you can.  

*If you plan on camping with your dog, I always recommend setting up your gear close to home or in your home to get your dog comfortable with sleeping there.  I would also recommend either bringing an item they are comfortable with or making them comfortable with an item you will be bringing, such as having them sleeping with a blanket you are bringing.  Even when I camp in a camper I bring a small blanket that is lightweight to put in the area where Canyon is sleeping.  

*Make sure you pay attention to when your pet needs a break or is uncomfortable.  If you push them too much they may begin to hate it.  

*Have fun and encourage your dog. Let them have fun in nature and be responsible

*also...always pack paw wipes - you will not regret it when you go into the tent at night or get back in the car at the end of the day.  Trust me on this.  

I hope that you can use this a guide to get you started on hiking with your dog.  I can hopefully follow up soon with more tips for backpacking and back country camping with your dog.  Having your best friend with you will make your experience so much fun and your dog will love it.