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The woods feel so peaceful and tranquil as you navigate down nature filled trails with your faithful canine companion by your side. Hiking with a dog can add a new level of enjoyment to the sport if you and your dog are prepared for the experience. Would you like it to be an even more enjoyable journey? Here are some tips for hiking with a dog:

Choose your time wisely.

Dogs are more susceptible to the heat with their thick coats of fur than are humans. If you’re hiking with a dog during the spring and summer, avoid hiking during peak daylight hours when the sun is high in the sky. The best time is in the early morning hours when temperatures are still cool. Plus, you can enjoy the solitude and beauty of watching the sun come up.

Make sure your dog is ready for a hike.

If your dog is a couch potato, he may not be up to the rigors of a long, uphill hike. Spend a few weeks improving his endurance and getting him into better cardiovascular shape before the big day. Take long walks and short runs around the neighborhood. Hike up hills in your neighborhood. This will get both of you prepared for the upcoming hike.

Be prepared for sickness or injury.

Before heading off on your hike, pack a first aid kit should an injury arise. Be sure to have plenty of bandages available in the event your dog experiences a foot pad injury on the trail from a sharp branch or other penetrating object. Keep the number of an emergency care veterinary center with you along with your cell phone should an unforeseen emergency arise on the trail.

Bring lots of water.

When hiking with a dog, you need to always be aware of your dog’s hydration status. A dog can develop dehydration and heat related illness very quickly on a hike if the temperature is high. Dog’s are not the best communicators when it comes to asking for water or a chance to rest. Be observant of your dog’s behavior. If he’s panting profusely or looks winded, stop under a shady tree for a water break.

Protect your dog from the sun.

If your dog is light in color or short haired, consider covering him with a light t-shirt to protect him from the sun’s harsh rays. Even if you have a longer haired dog, protect him from sunburn by applying sunscreen to sun vulnerable areas such as the nose and tips of the ears.

Start with shorter hikes.

Until you know how your dog’s going to react to hiking, start off with shorter hikes. Gradually increase the length as you develop confidence in your dog’s hiking ability.

Don’t leave evidence behind.

Don’t forget to bring supplies for picking up dog droppings. If you want your dog to continue to be welcome on the trails, don’t make it easy for someone to step into your dog’s excrement. Leave the trail the way it was before you and your dog arrived.

Do a tick check.

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Written by: Dr. Kristie
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