If you’re a dog lover, you know that there’s no better way to spend a weekend than taking your furry friend on a hike. Hiking with dogs can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to take the necessary precautions to make sure both you and your pup stay safe. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about hiking with dogs, from choosing the right trail to bringing the right gear. We’ll also provide some tips on how to keep your dog safe and happy on the trail. So pack up your pooch and get ready for some outdoor fun!
Table of Contents
Getting Prepared
Before heading out on your hike, be sure to pack all of the necessary gear for both you and your dog. This includes plenty of water, food, a first-aid kit, and any other items you may need in case of an emergency. You should also bring a leash and collar for your dog, as well as a harness if they are not used to wearing one.
When hiking with dogs, it’s important to choose a trail that is appropriate for both you and your dog. If you’re a beginner hiker, look for trails that are short and have gentle inclines. You’ll also want to avoid any trails that are too crowded or have a lot of loose rocks. Once you’ve found the perfect trail, it’s time to hit the road!
Once you’re on the trail, there are a few things you can do to keep your dog safe and happy. First, make sure to keep them on a leash at all times. This will help to prevent them from running off and getting lost. You should also take breaks frequently so your dog can rest and drink water. And finally, be sure to clean up after your dog if they happen to make a mess on the trail.
What To Consider When Picking a Hiking Companion
When it comes to finding the best dog breed for hiking, there are a few things you need to take into account.
- The first is energy level. You want a dog that can keep up with you on long hikes, so high energy breeds like Australian Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers are ideal.
- The second thing to consider is size. If you’re hiking with a large dog, be sure to bring a sturdy leash and plenty of water. Smaller dogs can easily be carried in a backpack or carrier. You don’t want a dog that’s too small to keep up. Breeds like Beagles and Border Collies are the perfect size for hiking.
- Finally, you want a dog with a strong sense of smell, so that it can help you find the best trails and track down any lost items. Bloodhounds and Basset Hounds are two of the best breeds for this.
Now that you know what to look for in a hiking dog, check out some of our favorite hiking breeds below:
#1. Australian Shepherds
They are considered one of the best breeds for hiking. They have high energy and can keep up with you on long hikes. They are also a medium-sized breed, so they are the perfect size for hiking.
Australian Shepherds can be a little shy around others. So expect them to stay close to you if hiking in a group of unfamiliar faces.
#2. Labrador Retrievers
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular breeds of dogs in the world and for good reason – they are an excellent choice for hiking with dogs. Labradors are energetic, friendly, and intelligent, making them perfect companions on a hike. They are also very sturdy and can easily handle long hikes without getting tired. They are known for their high energy levels and love of fetching things. They are also very friendly, making them great hiking companions. Labs are loyal and will stay by your side no matter what.
One thing to keep in mind with Labrador Retrievers is that they love to swim. If you’re hiking near a body of water, make sure your Lab has a life jacket on.
#3. Golden Retrievers
Golden Retrievers are another great breed for hiking. They are very friendly and love to play fetch. They are also great with kids, making them the perfect hiking companion for the whole family.
One thing to keep in mind with Golden Retrievers is that they love to eat. Make sure you bring plenty of food and water for your pup on your hike.
#4. Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is a breed that was originally bred to herd cattle. They are known for their high energy levels and love of working. They are also very loyal and protective of their family, making them great hiking companions.
One thing to keep in mind with the Australian Cattle dogs is that they need lots of exercises. If you’re not prepared to give your dog a good workout, this may not be the best breed for you.
#5. Border Collie
The Border Collie is a herding dog that was originally bred in the borderlands of Scotland and England. Today, this breed is known for its high energy levels and love of exercise, making it an excellent choice for hiking with dogs. Border Collies are also very intelligent and obedient, meaning they can easily learn the necessary commands to stay safe while hiking.
#6. German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a versatile hunting dog that is well-suited for hiking. This breed is energetic and loves to run, making it the perfect companion for a long hike. German Shorthaired Pointers are also intelligent and easy to train, meaning they can easily learn the commands necessary for hiking with dogs.
#7. Weimaraner
The Weimaraner is a high-energy hunting dog that loves to run and play. This breed is perfect for hiking, as they are always up for a good adventure. Weimaraners are also intelligent and easy to train, meaning they can easily learn the commands necessary for hiking with dogs.
#8. Poodle
Poodles are a great breed for hiking because they are very active and love to play fetch. They also have a thick coat of hair that protects them from the sun and cold weather. Poodles are also intelligent and easy to train, meaning they can easily learn the commands necessary for hiking with dogs.
One thing to keep in mind with Poodles is that they are prone to getting hip dysplasia, so be sure to keep a close eye on your dog’s hips while hiking.
#9. Basset Hound
If you’re looking for a dog with a strong sense of smell, then the Basset Hound is the perfect breed for you. They are known for their excellent sense of smell and can help you track down lost items on the trail. Basset Hounds are also low-energy dogs, meaning they won’t tire out easily on a long hike.
#10. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, working dog that was bred in the Swiss Alps. This breed is known for its high energy levels and love of hiking. Bernese Mountain Dogs are also very loyal and protective of their family, making them great hiking companions.
One thing to keep in mind with the Bernese Mountain Dog is that they need plenty of exercise. If you’re not prepared to give your dog a good workout, this may not be the best breed for you.
How to prepare your dog for a hike
Before you start hiking with your dog, it’s important to make sure they are prepared for the adventure. Here are a few things you can do to prepare them:
- Train your dog to follow basic commands, such as “stay” and “come.” This will help keep them safe while hiking.
- Make sure they are up to date on their vaccinations and parasite control.
- Ensure that they have a well-fitting collar and ID tags.
- Pack plenty of food and water for your dog, as well as a bowl and some treats.
- Bring along a first aid kit specifically for dogs, just in case of an emergency.
What to bring on a hike with your dog
In addition to food, water, and first aid supplies, there are a few other things you’ll need to bring on a hike with your dog:
- A leash – This is required by law in most areas.
- A collar – Make sure it’s sturdy enough to withstand rugged terrain.
- ID tags – Your dog’s identification information should be on these tags.
- A harness – If your dog tends to pull on the leash, a harness can be a helpful tool.
- Poop bags – You’ll need these to clean up after your dog while hiking.
- Bug spray – Mosquitoes and other bugs can be a nuisance when hiking, so be sure to pack some bug spray.
- Sunscreen – Dogs can sunburn, just like people, so be sure to apply sunscreen to their noses and ears. Note that the sunscreen used on your dog should not contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as these ingredients can be toxic to dogs.
Dog breeds to avoid as hike partners.
Not all breeds of dogs are suitable for hiking. If you’re looking for a dog to take on your next hike, the following breeds aren’t the best consideration:
- Pit Bulls – Pit Bulls are one of the most aggressive dog breeds and are not recommended for hiking.
- Rottweilers – Rottweilers are also bred as guard dogs and can be territorial, making them a poor choice for hiking partners. Not a good idea when you may be coming across lots of strangers.
- Chows – Chow Chows are known for their stubbornness and aggression, making them a bad choice for hiking especially if there will be company.
If you have any doubts about whether or not your dog is suitable for hiking, it’s best to take caution and keep them on a leach at all times.
Before you take your dog on a hike, be sure to do some research on the best trails in your area. Not all trails are suitable for dogs, so it’s important to find ones that are both safe and enjoyable for both of you. Also, be sure to read our guide to hiking with dogs. Happy trails!