I love to be out in nature. Hiking has always been something I enjoy because it allows m
e to be outdoors, experiencing nature, and it’s a good way to exercise Sadie and Rusty. Of course, Sadie and Rusty love to go hiking too.
If you want to take your own dogs out hiking you will want to keep a few things in mind.
First you’ll want to make sure you have water for both you and your dogs. Be sure to bring a bowl for your dogs water. I prefer collapsible bowls
You’ll want to avoid hiking in the heat of the day. Hike in the morning or evenings to avoid overheating.
During your walk work on training your dog. Call your dog to you and have him/her sit for you. Then when he/she comes and sits for you reward him/her with a treat. Don’t forget to take a snack or lunch for yourself too.
You may want to have paw protection with you for your dog. If the ground gets too hot or you find yourself in an area covered with fox-tails or stickers you may want to put something on your dog’s paws to keep them from getting sore, cut, or burned.
During the spring, summer and early fall you’ll want to be careful of rattlesnakes. Keep an eye on your dog, don’t let them wander though bushes or tall grass where rattlesnakes like to sun themselves.
Verify dogs are permitted on the trails you are considering hiking on. Many national and state parks do not allow dogs.
Always keep a leash with you. You never know when you may come to an area/circumstance where you will need to leash your dog. The leash will give you the tool you need to keep your dog from chasing wildlife, other dogs, hikers etc.
Before you decide to take your dog out hiking make sure your dog is healthy enough and fit enough to enjoy a hike. If your dog is not very fit you can start with short excursions from home and gradually work up to long hikes though the woods.
Pay attention to your dog, he/she will know when something is approaching such as other hikers, people on horses or bikes, and animals.
When you are finished with your walk make sure to check your dog for fox-tails, stickers, and ticks. Pay special attention to your dog’s paws, ears, and under-belly.
Yes, the collapsible water bowls are the way to go. Also, your tip to make sure dogs are allowed on the trail you plan to hike on is critical. It would be a disappointment and huge waste of time if you were excited about the hike, prepared for the adventure, and then found out you couldn’t hike with your dog after driving to the location. Your tips will ensure the hike will be enjoyable.
I love the collapsible water bowl, it goes into Rusty’s backpack along with a bottle of water on each side. Many of the national parks only allow dogs in certain areas if they’re allowed at all. Checking to see if your dog will be allowed on the trail you want to hike ahead of time can save a lot of headaches.