Who doesn’t love hitting the trail with their favorite four-legged friend? The open air, reconnecting with nature, and exploring new places is good for the body and the soul. To have a great experience and ensure that these opportunities continue to be available, follow these tips on trail etiquette when hiking with dogs.
1. Keep It Clean
Left behind dog doo is the No. 1 reason dogs get banned from trails. Always bring poop bags with you; you never know when the doodies will strike. Want to go above and beyond? Pick up after others who have left their smelly marks on the trail.
2. Follow Leash Rules
It can be super tempting to let your dog off leash when no one is around, but what happens when another hiker comes around the corner suddenly? Or your dog chases after a rabbit and is suddenly gone, heedless to your calls? You can never know what will happen out in the wilderness, and the best way to protect yourself, your dog, and other hikers is to stay on leash.
3. Pass Politely
Minimize interactions between your dog and other hikers or dogs by keeping your body between him and whoever you’re passing. You may have the friendliest dog on the planet, but not everyone wants to be greeted, people and dogs alike. Be polite and keep your dog under control while passing others.
4. Respect The Right of Way
Anyone going uphill has the right of way, especially in steep sections. Horses also have the right of way. Move over for riders on the trail, but make sure you and your pup stay visible to approaching horses, or they may become skittish. Stop fully, bring your dog in close, and talk to the riders as they pass by. Positive experience for everyone. If your dog is afraid of horses or unsure, feed some treats as they go past.
5. Advocate For Your Dog
You know what your dog likes and doesn’t like. Don’t let others convince you to “say hi” if you know your dog will be uncomfortable. There are lots of things to be exposed to on the trail, and most of them are wondrous and exciting. Make sure you and your dog have a positive experience every time you hit the trail by advocating for your dog and listening to their signals.
6. Stay On the Trails
If you’re at a park with dog trails, hiking trails, and horse trails, stay on the trails assigned for hikers with dogs. Trails are often segregated for specific reasons. Hikers without dogs don’t want to be surprised by a dog on a hikers-only trail. Following trail rules makes it possible for dogs to continue to be allowed at those parks.
7. Hike What Pup Can Handle
Whether you’ve got mountains in your backyard or you’ve got the flat plains of the Midwest to hike, make sure you’re hiking within your dog’s ability. Even with flat ground, you can still push your dog well past her limits by going on a seven-hour hike when she’s not conditioned for it. Dogs, like humans, need to be physically fit in order to handle long hikes. Make sure you take the time to work up to longer or more strenuous hikes, and always check with your veterinarian about your dog’s ability to handle hiking before hitting the trail.
8. Bring the Essentials
Bring water for you and your dog, no matter how short the hike. Dehydration can happen fast. And don’t forget a copy of the trail map, especially on large trail systems. There may be signs posted, but it’s smart to have your own map to reference. One wrong choice at an intersection may add an hour or two to your trip. Here are 6 other essential items you should think about for your hiking trip.
10. Pack In, Pack Out
Yes, that includes full poop bags. Pack out all trash and waste with you, no matter where you are hiking. This keeps nature pristine and minimizes our impact on the landscape.
11. Safety First
Your dog should have safe, non-restrictive gear for hiking, like a well-fitted harness. Packs for dogs are great, but be careful about the amount of weight you ask your dog to carry. Going over rough terrain? Consider boots for your pup. Hiking in cold weather? Your dog might need a winter coat. Trekking in the dark? Reflective gear and LED collar lights are available. It’s also a good idea to have a doggy first-aid kit in paw and your vet’s number in your phone.
When you hike with your pup, you are an ambassador for all dog owners. Make us look good! These rules of the road are meant to keep everyone safe and having fun. Adventure on!
Featured photo: Danielle Lindblom