Can You Go Hiking With Dogs?

Hikes can be a great way to exercise and manage your stress levels. But hiking with your dog can be much more enjoyable. You just have to know how to do this safely, as hikes can get dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing.

You need to make sure you find dog-friendly trails and make an enjoyable experience for both of you.

The first step you need to take is to consult your veterinarian. You need to make sure your is in the right physical condition to handle a hike. Some dogs aren’t fit for this type of exercise because of biological reasons. For example, brachycephalic breeds have difficulties breathing. After an examination, your vet can tell you if the dog’s condition is good enough to go on hikes.

If you get the go-ahead from your vet, make sure your dog is up-to-date with all their vaccines and administer flea, tick, and heartworm medication. Get your dog micro-chipped, so you can track them if they get lost. Additionally, make sure they have a tag with all the necessary information. That way, if someone finds them, they can contact you.

You need to pack a first aid kit, a harness, poop bags, food, snacks, and water for the hike. Dog boots can also be useful if the terrain gets uneven or otherwise dangerous. Stay away from areas with wild animals. Keeping your dog on a leash can make sure that your dog doesn’t wander off and get in dangerous situations. Avoid risky terrain and check the terrain temperatures. Cooler areas are the best for hiking.

Lastly, you should know that most dogs can comfortably walk for three to four hours. Some might be able to hike longer, but you need to check on the physical capabilities of your breed.