Dog Hiking
A lot of hikers prefer going out with their families, friends, or with a hiking group. Some like to be alone while there are others who like going out with their four legged friends - their pet dogs. Yes, there are hikers who bring along their dogs on the trail. Called Dog Hiking or Hiking with a canine companion, this form of Hiking provides an opportunity for hikers to bond with their dogs.
Aside from being a bonding activity with your canine friend, dog hiking has a number of interesting benefits. Dog hiking provides physical and emotional stimulation for your dog and consequently, curtails destructive behaviors. Dog hiking also allows you and your dog to keep in shape together. Having the company of your dog also provides security especially when hiking in wilderness areas.
But before you go out and bring your dog for a hike, there are some guidelines you need to follow. Your dog may be either your willing or unwilling hiking buddy so there are things you need to consider. Here are some of the guidelines when planning a Hiking activity with your dog. Familiarize yourself with these pointers for you and your dog’s advantage.
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Check if dog hiking is allowed in the hiking area of your choice. Contact the managing agency and ask if dogs are allowed in the trails. Also know the different guidelines set by the managing agency.
- If the guidelines include putting a leash on your dog, do so. But if it is not required legally, it is still advisable to put a dog leash for control. A leash that measures six feet is good enough to enable your dog to hike the trail without getting tangled up.
- If you do not want to put a leash, make sure that you have a good voice command recall. Be prepared to keep your dog under control. In case your dog wanders off, have your dog carry a collar or an identification tag for easy locating.
- Long hikes can be demanding and strenuous to your dog. Older dogs and those aged 14 months and below should not be brought along during hikes. Dogs, moreover, should not be allowed to carry packs that are over 1/3 of their weight.
- Condition your dog by taking your dog to progressive hikes. This will put your dog into good shape. Before a hike, examine your dog and look for signs of illness or lameness. Moreover, make sure that your dog has up-to-date vaccinations.
- Trim the nails of your dog and put booties when hiking on rough and uneven terrain to take care of your dog's paws. Do not forget to bring a first-aid kit that includes a medicinal salve to cure skin irritation caused by plants like poison ivy.
- At least two weeks before dog hiking, check with your dog’s veterinarian. Ask for opinion about how much weight your dog can carry and if your dog is fit enough for hiking. Also consult other hikers who have experiences with dog hiking.
- Bring enough water for you and your dog. Prevent yourself and your dog from getting dehydrated. You can also bring a hat to protect your dog from the sun. Avoid hiking during the heat of the day.
- Feed your dog after the hike. It is not recommended to feed a dog before a hike and while on the trail because serious problems may arise when exercising vigorously after eating. However, you can feed your dog with treats while on trail.
- Dispose properly your dog's droppings. Do not just leave behind your dog's poop on the trail or beside the trail. Your dog’s poop may endanger the environment especially if it’s near a body of water. Besides, be considerate of the other hikers behind you.
- After a hike, examine your dog thoroughly. Look for tick or flea infestations and signs of injury by running your hand over your dog's body using a comb. Also check your dog's feet because there might be harmful debris lodged on it such as thorns or glass.
Dog hiking, undoubtedly, will be an exciting activity for you and your dog. However, like any other outdoor activity, it is important to follow Safety Guidelines so as not to spoil the fun. Make sure that you and your dog are both prepared for hiking. Surely, your dog will look forward for another hiking activity if it had a satisfying time outdoors previously.
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