Hiking is a great way to change the scenery when taking your dog out for a walk. But it’s not as simple as just putting a leash on your pup and heading out the door. You need to plan your route and pack all the dog hiking essentials to ensure you have a fun but safe day out.
In this guide, we have compiled everything you need to consider before going hiking with dogs, including the must-haves for dog hiking. Let’s delve into our top dog hiking tips so you can start planning your adventures this summer.
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Things to Think About Before Going Hiking With Dogs
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1. Research Your Hiking Destination
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2. Check Your Pup Is Up-To-Date With All Vaccinations
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3. Pack a Lead and Harness Designed for Hikes
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4. Chilly Day? Remember a Dog Coat
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5. Don’t Forget a Cooling Vest For Warmer Days
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6. Ensure Your Pup Always Has ID
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7. Train Your Pup To Wear Dog Boots
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8. Always Bring a First Aid Kit
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9. Poo Bags are Essential!
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10. Just Like Humans, Dogs Need a Snack Too
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11. Too Many Items To Carry? Get Your Dog To Pull Their Weight
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12. Clean Up Wet and Muddy Dogs With Dog Towels
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Make Hiking Fun With Pawdaw
Things to Think About Before Going Hiking With Dogs
Hiking with dogs can be a great way for both you and your pup to get some exercise, but it does require a bit more planning than your usual walks. First, ask yourself: Is your dog fit for hiking?
Dogs love to run and explore, but hiking demands more endurance and often involves hills or rockier paths. Because of this, smaller and older dogs may not be as suited for longer hikes—remember, those little legs of theirs can only go so far!
That said, it’s important to evaluate your dog individually. Some smaller pups are natural hikers! To make sure your dog is ready for a hike, start with short, easy trails that aren’t too challenging. Gradually increase the difficulty as your pup gets more comfortable with the terrain. Always keep an eye on how they’re handling it to make sure they’re enjoying the adventure!
To ensure the smooth running of your hike, prepare accordingly by checking your pup's eyes, ears, month, and paws, to ensure they are fine. The same checkups for after the hike
Best Dogs to Hike With
Some breeds are better suited to dog hiking than others. Again, deciding whether your pup is ready for a hike depends on your dog rather than their breed, but this list could provide a guide. Here are a few examples of hiking dogs:
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Malamutes
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Australian Cattle Dog
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Border Collie
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Dalmatian
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Shepherds
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Beagles
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Borzoi
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Doberman Pinscher
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Fox Terrier
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Jack Russell
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Labrador Retriever
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Portuguese Water Dog
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Saluki
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Samoyeds
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Spaniel
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Huskies
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Standard Poodle
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German Shorthaired Pointer
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Weimaraner
If your pup isn’t on the list, don’t worry! As long as you can determine they are able to handle the challenges of a hike, they should be fine.
Now that you’ve worked out whether hiking with dogs is for you, here are our top tips for handling dog hiking with ease.
1. Research Your Hiking Destination
Before you head out, it’s important to plan your route carefully. Different trails have different rules when it comes to hiking with dogs, so make sure you're aware of them and follow them closely. For instance, some trails may not allow dogs, so it’s best to avoid these to prevent any disappointment or issues with other hikers. No matter where you go, it’s crucial to keep your dog close to you at all times to ensure their safety and prevent them from getting into any mischief!
2. Check Your Pup Is Up-To-Date With All Vaccinations
Hiking with dogs can bring about specific challenges, like ticks and fleas. To avoid any issues later on, it’s important to make sure your pup is up-to-date with all their vaccinations.
To minimize the risk of ticks and other pests while hiking, stick to the middle of the trail and avoid walking through dense bushes. You can also use pet-friendly insect repellent to help keep ticks and bugs at bay, reducing the chances of them latching onto your pup. Taking these precautions will help ensure a safer, more enjoyable hike for both of you!
3. Pack a Lead and Harness Designed for Hikes
There are plenty of harness options designed specifically for hiking with dogs, from bungee leashes to waist leashes and hiking harnesses. With so many accessories out there, it can feel a bit overwhelming! The best leash and harness for you and your pup really comes down to personal preference, so it’s a good idea to try a few different types to see which combination works best.
Waist leashes are especially great for hiking, as they let you keep your hands free while still keeping your dog on a leash. Plus, a good harness gives you a safe way to grab your dog if you ever need to, without causing them any harm—just in case of an emergency.
4. Chilly Day? Remember a Dog Coat
Humans aren’t the only ones who need a coat in cold weather. While your pup has their own coat to help keep them warm, when the temperatures drop, it's a good idea to put a dog coat on them to make sure they stay cozy during the hike. A little extra warmth can go a long way in keeping your dog comfortable, especially in colder conditions.
5. Don’t Forget a Cooling Vest For Warmer Days
On sunnier days, dogs can be prone to overheating, especially when on a hike. Take a look at your hiking trail and make sure there are plenty of shaded areas to provide a place to rest when your pup is getting too warm. You could also bring a cooling vest on your hike for a quick and easy way to cool down your dog.
6. Ensure Your Pup Always Has ID
Dog tags are essential for everyday life, but they’re even more important when you're out on a hike. It's always best to be prepared for any situation. For example, your pup might get startled by something and slip out of their harness. Without a dog tag containing your information, your pup could end up lost for longer than necessary. Make sure your dog’s tag includes your phone number, as well as a secondary contact number, so anyone who finds your pup can easily reach you.
7. Train Your Pup To Wear Dog Boots
Not all pups like wearing dog boots, but if you are planning on hiking trails that involve rockier paths, it can provide some added protection to your pup’s paws. Having extra grip from the boots can also prevent slips and falls, adding to the safety of your dog.
8. Always Bring a First Aid Kit
Accidents happen, so you should always be prepared for any situation. A first aid kit will equip you with all the tools you need to handle accidents. With all the essentials, such as bandages and antiseptic, you can have peace of mind that you are prepared should anything happen to your pup.
If your first aid kit doesn’t already include a tweezer, remember to pack one. This tool is perfect for removing ticks!
9. Poo Bags are Essential!
Whenever you head outside with your pup, make sure you’ve got poo bags with you! When hiking with dogs, it’s a good idea to bring plenty. Don’t forget to bring something to store the used bags in, too, since you never know when the next bin will be. Whether it's a dedicated container for used bags or a small poo bag holder, having somewhere to put them will save you from carrying them for the rest of your hike.
10. Just Like Humans, Dogs Need a Snack Too
Hiking takes a lot of energy for both you and your dog, so it’s a great idea to bring snacks for both of you! Some kibble or treats will keep your pup happy and prevent them from rummaging through trash along the trail.
And don’t forget to stay hydrated! While your dog might be tempted to drink from any water source they come across on the trail, it’s important to bring your own clean water to avoid them drinking something dirty or contaminated. Just pack a water bottle and a portable bowl, so your pup can easily stay hydrated throughout the hike.
11. Too Many Items To Carry? Get Your Dog To Pull Their Weight
Of course, you don’t want to overload your pup, but it can be a great idea to have them carry a few lightweight items in a dog backpack. Things like treats, dog boots, or poo bags are light enough for your pup to manage without trouble.
Make sure to gradually train your dog to carry items in their backpack so they don’t feel overwhelmed by the weight. As a rule of thumb, dogs can comfortably handle about 10% of their body weight, so be mindful not to overfill their pack.
12. Clean Up Wet and Muddy Dogs With Dog Towels
Hiking with dogs can result in wet and muddy pups. To quickly clean your dogs, remember to bring a dog towel or even a dog drying bag for a quick and easy way to remove mud from your pup and get them as dry as possible.
At Pawdaw of London, we offer premium dog towels and luxury dog drying bags to handle muddy pups easily. Made from premium microfibre, our dog products provide a fast and easy way of drying your pups while still looking stylish.
Make Hiking Fun With Pawdaw
There you have it – your ultimate guide to hiking with dogs! From things to consider before hitting the trail to all the essentials you need to bring along, you’re now ready to hike with your pup and enjoy the adventure, knowing you're fully prepared for any situation.
At Pawdaw of London, we have a range of luxury dog accessories to make your dog hike a more comfortable and glamorous experience. From stylish dog towels to fast-drying dog drying bags, treat your pup to a touch of luxury with Pawdaw today. Happy hiking!
Hiking With Dogs FAQs
Is hiking good for a dog?
Yes, hiking is fantastic for dogs! It offers great physical exercise, mental stimulation, and the chance to explore new places. Just make sure to consider your dog's fitness level, the difficulty of the terrain, and the weather conditions to ensure they stay safe and comfortable throughout the hike.
Do dogs get sore from hiking?
Yes, dogs can definitely get sore from hiking, especially if the trail is long or the terrain is tough. Just like us, dogs use muscles they don’t normally engage in everyday activities, which can lead to soreness. To help prevent this, start with shorter hikes and gradually work up to longer ones. Keep an eye on your dog for any signs of discomfort, and be sure to offer plenty of water and breaks along the way to keep them comfortable.
Do dogs need boots to hike?
Dogs don’t necessarily need boots on a hike, but if the trail is particularly rocky or there are spots where extra grip is needed, training your pup to wear dog boots can be a great idea. Not only do dog boots provide added warmth, but they also protect your pup’s paws from rough terrain, sharp rocks, and hot surfaces, making your hike safer and more comfortable for them.
How do you carry a dog when hiking?
If your pup isn’t able to keep up on a hike, a dog carrier backpack can be a great solution. While it will add extra weight for you, especially with all your other supplies, it allows you to bring your dog along on the hike without leaving them behind. It’s a great option for pups who aren’t able to walk the entire trail but still want to enjoy the adventure with you!
Should I bathe my dog after a hike?
Going hiking with dogs can leave you with a wet and muddy pup. Dogs can pick up all sorts of debris whilst hiking, including mud, dirt and stones. To ensure all debris is effectively removed from your pup’s paws and coat, you should make sure to bathe your dog with dog-friendly shampoo and conditioner after your hike. Take a look at our grooming range at Pawdaw today.
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