The In’s and Out’s of Hiking With Your Dog
As parks, trails, and reservations begin to reopen, hiking with your dog can be a great way to get out of the house and spend time with your pup. However, when planning a hiking trip, there are a number of key things to remember to ensure everyone, including your dog, has a fun and safe time.
Before hiking, do not assume that all trails and areas are welcoming to dogs. While many are open to dogs, there are some restrictions, so it is important to look up what the rules are beforehand.
When hiking with your dog, remember to have proper etiquette and be respectful of other hikers, trail runners, and bicyclists. The first rule most recommended for when you encounter others on the trail is to use common sense and be courteous.
It is also recommended to keep your dog on a leash or under a solid recall, meaning they will stop walking and immediately return to you when asked. Some areas require you to keep your dog on a leash at all times, so make sure you know the rules before starting your journey. When your dog is off leash, they should still remain within sight at all times to ensure their safety.
If you decide to not use a leash and rely on voice commands, make sure that the leash is still handy just in case you might need it. No matter how well trained your dog might be, you never know what will happen, so it is best to be prepared.
When hiking, with or without a leash, it is important to remember to bring bags to collect poop. Dog poop can contain harmful diseases that can be passed on to both other animals and humans, so make sure to pick it up. To learn more about the harm dog waste can cause when left behind, check out this website.
When encountering other trail hikers, it is usually encouraged for owners and their dog to move to the side and allow others to pass without worrying that they will get sniffed by your dog. It is also recommended to stick to the designated trails and refrain from making new paths or taking short cuts when with your dog.
++ It is not recommended to have off leash hikes with dogs who experience some level of reactivity. Meaning he/she has an “over the top” reaction to the site of another dog, who further does not have a strong recall. For more information on dog to dog reactivity, consult with a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT).