5 tips on how to start hiking with your dog

Hiking with your dog can be a rewarding and enriching experience for both of you, but before you hit the trails, it’s essential to be prepared. Whether you’re navigating rocky mountains, sandy beaches, or wooded forests, ensuring your dog’s safety and comfort is key to a successful hike. With a bit of planning and the right approach, hiking can become a favorite outdoor activity for you and your four-legged companion. Here are five essential tips to get started.

1. Start with Short and Easy Trails

Before you tackle a mountain or venture deep into the wilderness, it’s a good idea to start with short, easy trails to build up your dog’s stamina and comfort level. Just as you wouldn’t run a marathon without training, your dog also needs time to adjust to the physical demands of hiking.

Why this is important:
Starting small allows you to assess how well your dog handles different types of terrain, like dirt paths or grassy hills.
It gives you an opportunity to observe their endurance and any sensitivities to outdoor elements, like heat or rough surfaces.

Choose a local, well-maintained trail with minimal elevation changes to gauge how your dog responds. Gradually increase the difficulty and distance of your hikes as your dog builds strength and stamina.

2. Prepare for Different Terrains

Just like humans, dogs may find some terrains more challenging than others. Preparing for various landscapes ensures that both you and your dog can handle whatever the trail throws your way.

Rocky or uneven ground: Invest in dog boots if the trail is rocky or if the ground gets too hot, as sharp stones or hot surfaces can injure their paw pads.

Forests or woodlands: These areas may be home to insects, ticks, and thorny plants. Bring tick protection for your dog and check them for burrs or ticks after the hike.

Sandy or beach hikes: Be sure to pack fresh water and offer it frequently, as saltwater can be dehydrating. Sand can also be tough on paws, so bring paw balm to soothe any irritation.

Why this is important:

Understanding the challenges of different terrains helps prevent injuries, discomfort, and fatigue in your dog. For example, dogs aren’t naturally equipped to handle sharp rocks or scorching pavement without protection.

3. Pack the Essentials

When hiking with your dog, packing the right gear is crucial for ensuring both safety and comfort. Here’s a checklist of essentials to bring along:

Plenty of water and a collapsible bowl: Hydration is key, especially on hot or lengthy hikes. A lightweight, collapsible bowl makes it easy to give your dog water regularly.

Dog snacks or energy-boosting treats: Just like you, your dog will burn energy while hiking. Pack a few snacks or treats to refuel along the way.

Dog first-aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers to remove ticks or thorns. Also, carry paw balm or booties if you're tackling rough terrain.

Leash and harness: Even in off-leash areas, it’s a good idea to keep a leash handy for safety, particularly around wildlife or steep inclines.

Dog life jacket (if you’re hiking near water): If your dog is swimming, ensure they’re wearing a life jacket, especially if currents are strong or if you’ll be navigating rough water crossings.

Why this is important: 

Being well-prepared ensures you can handle any situation that arises. From dehydration to paw injuries, having the right gear will help your dog stay safe and comfortable throughout the hike.

4. Practice Trail Etiquette

When hiking with your dog, good trail etiquette is important for both your dog’s safety and the enjoyment of other trail users. Whether you’re hiking in a national park or a local trail, here are a few key rules to follow:

Keep your dog on a leash: Unless you’re in a designated off-leash area, always keep your dog on a leash. This ensures your dog doesn’t wander off, disturb wildlife, or approach other hikers without permission.

Yield to other hikers and bikers: If you encounter others on the trail, step to the side and allow them to pass, especially if they have dogs or are riding bikes.

Pick up after your dog: Always carry poop bags and clean up after your dog, leaving the trail as you found it for others to enjoy.

Why this is important:

Respecting trail etiquette ensures that hiking remains a safe and enjoyable activity for everyone. It’s also essential for protecting wildlife and preserving natural environments.

5. Prioritize Safety

Hiking with your dog is an adventurous experience, but it’s important to prioritize safety at all times. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

Watch for signs of fatigue: Dogs may not always show signs of exhaustion until they’re very tired. If your dog starts panting heavily, slowing down, or seems reluctant to continue, take a break or cut the hike short.

Be mindful of the weather: Dogs can overheat quickly, especially in warm weather. Take plenty of breaks in shaded areas and offer water often. Avoid hiking during the hottest parts of the day, and if the forecast predicts extreme heat, consider postponing your hike.

Know your dog's limits: Not every dog is built for hiking. Older dogs, puppies, or breeds with short noses (like Bulldogs) may struggle with long or intense hikes. Gauge your dog’s fitness level and health before starting any new outdoor adventure.

Wildlife awareness: Keep an eye out for wildlife that may pose a risk to your dog, such as snakes, birds of prey, or larger animals like kangaroos. If you encounter wildlife, keep your dog on a short leash and stay calm while moving away from the area.

Why this is important: Keeping your dog’s safety at the forefront of every hike helps prevent injuries, heat exhaustion, and encounters with wildlife. Hiking should be enjoyable, and by taking the right precautions, you can ensure it’s a fun and safe experience for both of you.

Hiking with your dog can be a fantastic way to bond, explore nature, and stay active together. By starting slow, preparing for different terrains, packing the essentials, practicing good trail etiquette, and prioritizing safety, you and your dog can have many enjoyable adventures in the great outdoors. Just remember to keep an eye on your dog’s well-being, adjust to their comfort level, and most importantly, have fun!