Dogs are man’s best friend. We want to take them everywhere and that includes hiking. Hiking is great for dogs because it lets them explore and is great exercise. However, there are some things that you need to consider when you hike with your dog. Here are just some of those things that you should consider.
Are Dogs Allowed?
The first thing you need to consider is if dogs are allowed on the trail you want to go on. Trails that don’t allow dogs will say so. Make sure you know this before you pack up and get ready only to find out that your furry friend isn’t allowed.
Trail Safety
Some trails may allow dogs but may not be safe for your dog specifically. Dogs with sensitive feet might need different hikes than dogs without sensitive feet. Some dogs are in better shape than other dogs. Don’t bring your dog on a long, strenuous hike if they haven’t exercised in awhile.
Bring Enough Water
Hiking with your dog means you need to bring enough water for the two of you. Dogs drink a ton of water! Make sure you take that into consideration. Streams and creeks may be a good source of water for your dog only if the water is safe for drinking.
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Tick Prevention
Ticks love warm blooded animals, especially furry ones. Your dog may get some ticks while they are hiking. Make sure that you pay special close attention to your dog to make sure there are not ticks on them. Do a physical examination once you’re done hiking to see if you see or feel any. Dogs that are in the wilderness a lot should be on some sort of tick prevention.
Swimming
Dogs that are great swimmers have no trouble following you across a river. However, some dogs are afraid of the water. You might have to physically carry your dog across a body of water. Think about this when you’re planning out your hiking trip. Is your dog too big to carry? Can your dog swim well?
Picking Up After Your Pet
Make sure you have some bags to pick up after your pet. Although, you’re already in the wilderness you don’t want some poor unsuspecting hiker to step in it. How would you like it if there was dog poop all over your hiking trail? It wouldn’t be pleasant.
Be Considerate
A hiking trail is shared by many people and animals. Your dog needs to be able to share the trail. Dogs that go on hikes need to be able to stay on the side as hikers, bikers, and horses pass by. They should stay calm and wait patiently. People might get frightened on the trail if your dog is barking at them. Make sure your dog has good manners before you start your excursion.
Summing Up
A good hike with your dog can help the two of you get some great exercise and bond together. But there are some things that you need to think about before you dive in. These things to consider when you hike with your dog will help the both of you to stay safe and have fun.
Image Source: Pixabay
