Tips For Hiking & Backpacking With Your Dog
Even the most responsible dog owners sometimes forget doggy etiquette and safety!
Dog Hiking Etiquette:
- Check with park rangers on their dog rules - there is a leash law in the High Peaks Wilderness Area, but isn't always the case on other trails
- Be aware that some parks and trails will fine you if your dog is off the leash
- If you are in a park that allows your dog to hike leash-free:
- Only allow your dog to go within your field of vision
- Although they aren't on a leash, you must still have control
- Beware of other dogs, animals, and smells
- Only bring your dog if he or she is well trained, obedient, and enthusiastic
- Be respectful of other hikers - not everybody likes dogs
- Always clean up after your pooch
- If you come upon horses, yield the trail and keep your dog calm - horses spook easily
- Hikers heading uphill have the right of way - your dog doesn't know this, but you do
- Try to keep your dog from disturbing the local scenery and wild animals
Things To Bring:
Make sure you always have a leash, even if the trail doesn't require one- Have enough food and water for both you and your dog
- You may want to invest in a collapsible dish that can hold water and fold down small enough to fit in a pack
- Consider purchasing a pack so your dog can carry his own food, water, and waste
- Bring either bags to carry out waste or a shovel/trowel to bury what your pup leaves behind
- Carry a basic first-aid kit for yourself and your dog
- While your dog should have ID tags, you should also carry a photo in case you are separated
- In the colder seasons, your dog may need a sweater or paw covers
- If your dog will be swimming, you may want to purchase a life jacket
- During hunting season, you and your dog should be outfitted in blaze orange
- Bring treats to motivate your pup along the way
- Use a tick repellent before traveling through wooded areas
- If staying overnight, bring at least a 3-man tent (if you have two people) and bring a towel or something for the dog to lay on
Dog Hiking Safety:
Read up on basic hiking safety- Be sure that your dog is in good shape
- Research the trail ahead of time to know how much experience your dog should have
- Avoid trails that are excessively long, steep, or have high ledges - many dogs are afraid of heights
- Some dogs are able to climb ladders (with a little assistance), like the one on Armstrong Mountain, but others are not
- See our list of trails to avoid »
- Look out for birds of prey and coyotes
- Teach your dog the "wait" command so he doesn't pull you down the mountain
- Use a retractable leash and make him wait while you hike down tricky spots, then tell him he can come down to where you are
- If your dog will be entering your tent, be sure his toenails are clipped so they don't rip through the floor
After Your Trip:
- Always check your dog for insects, like ticks
- Groom your pooch's fur to be free of burrs and other items
- Bathe the pup to eliminate irritating dirt and pollen
- Give him or her a treat for being such a great companion