A hiking trip with your dog is a wonderful moment to share with your animal. To make it a true pleasure for both you and your four-legged companion, think about their wellbeing and capabilities when planning your route. Choose a hike that is suited to your dog's size and endurance. Before setting off, also check the regulations in force in the areas you will be passing through: are you allowed to take your animal on a given path?
Hiking: a sport not suited to all dogs
Hiking with your dog is possible! But it all depends on your dog's temperament and, above all, their abilities. Are they sturdy enough or do they have the endurance to cover several kilometres a day? While a Yorkshire Terrier would be too fragile for a long hike, a Great Dane would likely lack the stamina due to its weight. Medium-sized dogs, such as Belgian Shepherds for example, are best suited to long walks. Their long muzzle gives them better breathing, making them excellent athletes.
In any case, before heading out hiking with your animal, plan a check-up with their vet. Only they can advise you on your dog's health and ability to keep up with you on your hike. They can also detect any potential joint or respiratory issues that could hinder your dog's movement. Make sure to bring an emergency vet number with you, or at the very least the contact details of the nearest professional(s) along your route.
What preparation and specific equipment should you plan for when hiking with your dog?
Your dog's physical condition is the first thing to consider when planning your hiking route. If they are not used to long walks, you should also pay close attention to their paw pads: these are the most sensitive parts of their body. Despite their built-to-last appearance, they can develop cracks if not properly conditioned. The less prepared the dog, the more sensitive their paw pads may be. To toughen them up, you can train your dog by walking on various types of terrain several weeks in advance. Lotions and creams are also available from your vet to improve their resilience. Check your companion's paws regularly during the hike, as well as their gait.
Whether your dog is used to long walks or not, take care of your animal by planning breaks during which they can drink, eat and rest. For this, bring a water bottle, their food and possibly some treats, as well as a collapsible bowl. If you are heading out on a multi-day hike and sleeping outdoors, think about bringing a sleeping mat to stop them getting cold, as well as a tethering stake so they do not wander off during the night. Finally, just as for yourself, pack a first aid kit with tick-removal tweezers, mini-dose betadine, gauze pads and adhesive plasters.
Respecting the regulations
Even though no law prohibits walking with your dog in nature, there are certain areas where they will not be allowed. This is the case for national nature parks and nature reserves. Even on a lead, dogs are banned there to protect the local wildlife. Only regional parks tolerate dogs if they are kept on a lead. If your dog walks freely, be aware that you must always keep them within sight and earshot — otherwise they will be considered as straying. Note that if your animal causes an accident involving a third party, your civil liability will be engaged.
Failure to comply with any of these legal rules may result in a fine. When planning your route, do not hesitate to check with local councils whether a by-law prohibits dogs anywhere along your journey. Finally, your animal must be identifiable by tattoo or microchip. Make sure to carry their identification documents with you, and depending on the country and region, their up-to-date vaccinations and passport, so you can hike with them in complete safety.
