Hiking with your dog sounds like the most fun thing you can do on weekends. But you’ll also be responsible for your furry friend’s safety on top of yours. Preparation is critical to making sure you and your dog go home safely.
Taking Your Dog Hiking for the First Time
Hiking gives you and your dog a happy experience to remember for a lifetime. However, as exciting as going on an adventure with your fur buddy sounds, you must prepare before hitting the first trail.
Obedience is the most important thing you must consider as a fur parent when doing outdoor activities. Puppies must be able to stay on the trail and within your line of sight throughout the hike to avoid any danger.
Training your dog with obedience and proper trail etiquette are pre-hike requirements for stress-free hiking. If you have hike companions, you also want to work on your pup’s manners around people and other dogs.
Benefits of Hiking With Your Pup
Is hiking good for your dog? Just as it’s a form of exercise for you, it also is for your fur companion. Hiking can benefit your dog in several ways:
- Stay fit: Dogs need to stay in shape to avoid getting sick easily.
- Strengthen your bond: The more time you spend with your fur buddy outdoors, the closer you become to each other.
- Stimulate the mind: Dogs also get bored and may act up by digging and chewing your shoes. Going outside with different sights and smells is mentally stimulating and fun.
- Reduce stress: Dogs also get anxious and depressed. Hiking is a stress-relieving outdoor activity where they can explore their surroundings and find ways to ease anxiety and lethargy.
- Improve socialization: Hiking is an excellent opportunity for your fur baby to meet other people and animals.
Hiking With a Puppy in a Backpack
Age, breed, size and vaccinations are a few things you should consider before your pup is ready to hike with you. Depending on the breed and size, a pup may reach near full growth stage in less than six months.
If this is the case, you can take them on walks to build their stamina when they’re around 18 weeks old and fully vaccinated. Only take your dog on short hikes when they’re ready. Otherwise, it can lead to injury and problems that may inhibit their growth.
If you insist on enjoying their company on a hike, using a dog hiking backpack makes hiking easier for a pup. It’s a bag you can strap on your front or back to carry them. It’s a safe option if your dog has yet to build stamina for long hikes. Be sure to choose one with padded straps that fit your dog’s size and weight.
Dog Hiking Essentials to Carry
You need to prepare gear for your furry friend. If they can carry a load, buy an adjustable pack to bring the following dog hiking essentials:
- Leash: To help your dog stay on the trail at all times.
- Collar or harness: To identify your dog as a pet with an owner.
- Identification tag: To contact you in case your dog gets lost.
- Food: To keep your dog energized throughout the hike.
- Water: At least 8 ounces of water per hour of the hike is a must.
- Collapsible bowl: To make eating and drinking easier.
- Basic first aid kid: To deal with injuries.
- Clothing: To keep your dog comfortable in case the temperature drops.
- Reflective jacket: To keep them safe while crossing roads at night.
Tips for a Successful Hike With Your Dog
Ready to take your best bud on a hike? Here are a few helpful tips to make the journey a success.
1. Carry Enough Water and Food
Long hikes take a lot of energy. The weather might also change and become too hot. Take a sufficient supply of water and food so you can hydrate and keep feeding your dog some treats consistently.
2. Have an Evacuation Plan Before You Hike
You’ll never know what will happen on the road, so plan how to get off the trail and bring your dog to a vet in case they need help.
3. Ensure the Trail Is Dog-Friendly
If you hike with a group, check with others about how dog-friendly the trail is. Avoid rough rock formations and steep slopes that can tear the pads in your dog’s paws or pose danger.
Safety First Before Taking Your Dog Hiking for the First Time
If you don’t want to leave your puppy alone at home, you can use a dog hiking backpack to carry them on your back while hiking. Ensure they’re comfortable in the backpack carrier.
Safety is a crucial factor to think about when hiking with your dog. You’ll be in charge of both of your safety, so plan your hiking adventures properly. Bring the dog hiking essentials and follow the tips for a successful hike.