She knows where to walk and stays on the trail and never pees (which is amazing as on regular walks she

I've been thinking of taking my dog on the trail this year. I agree they should carry their own supplies. I.e. water, treats, poop bags, 1st aid, etc. I would recommend carrying 35' or so of rope and a small carabiner so you can make a runner between two trees so let your pet roam a little but still be safe on a leash. You might want to think about some sort bright or reflective vest or collar for it's safety as well. Good Luck.

I take my Eskie (Gracie) hiking from time to time. She really seems to enjoy getting out on the trail with me and is well mannered. I always keep her on a 25' leash though, for her safety and as a consideration to other hikers we may meet. Not everyone will think she's as cute and friendly as I do. Gracie has her own pack and she carries some of "the load" - specifically her folding bowl and some treats. I pack all of the water and all of the first aid items.

Thanks for replies. SInce I just do day hiking anyway, it isn't much she would carry (just water, and something to balance the other side basically). A couple people on another forum thought I was cruel and heartless and intended to burden her like a donkey. :-}

Anyway, I have also seen that some of them have handles. This seems very functional, as I commonly have cactus to the left and right!! It would be nice to lift her easily instead of picking her up and carrying her in my arms. She doesn't like this too much anyway. Most of them have reflective tape, but it definitely another reason for it. Though I haven't gone out except in bright sun.

I can't see where spend quality time with you pet is a problem. I'm sure you wouldn't pack your K-9 up like a pack mule. I would say as lon as your pet is properly conditioned and healthy enough to venture out go for it. I just had my dogs at the vet, and he ( the vet ) said it would be great to take them out for fresh air. He recommended a small first aid, plenty of water,and to check them for thorns, fleas and ticks after the trip. Pretty simple I think. Honestly every time I touch my back pack my dog gets so excited It usually cost me quick walk around the block. My pet is part of my family so I treat her like it.

Oh I was kidding about the pack mule. But some people have somewhat misguided "animal rights" concerns. We all know a dog is not a real pack animal, but some people I think have their own agendas.

Torie is thrilled to go out!! We even did a little scrambling together. She likes being top dog on the rock. (Of course I have to lift her sometimes.)

I carry a first aid kit but don't know quite what is different for a dog in it. I have the benadryl and antiseptic wipes, that type of thing. Perhaps some wrap type bandage? I have heard "new skin" is good in a human kit (you can even use super glue) and might be good for pad problems?

For me, I don't recommend dogs in hiking.

My dog is my best hiking companion. She's also a working dog,she's traine in K-9 SAR, search and rescue. She's 8 years old. This will her last year working, I will retire her to just a plain pet. She's getting slower in her age, her hips get sore at night. She still love to work, hike, camp and plays ball all day long.

I want her to enjoy last couple of years. She'll always be welcome on short hikes.