Backpacking with dogs: essential tips and tricks

Video: Pet Fit Tips -- Hiking With Your Dog

The cool mountain air ruffles your hair as you stare out over a serene lake, autumn colors reflected in the still water. The song of a red-winged blackbird drifts across the canyon as you crunch on a handful of trail mix. What a lovely day for backpacking with dogs.

For those of us who like to get up into the hills and stretch our legs, a day of hiking is the best getaway. But, most dogs love to get out of the house and smell the pines and fresh breeze too. So, why not take your dog along on your next hiking trip?

Before you pack Fido into the car and head out of town though, you should take some time to prepare. This way, both you and your dog will have a safe and comfortable trip. Though it isn’t much, there are some essential items that you’ll have to take along for your four-legged friend.

Backpacking with Dogs: Essential Tips And Tricks

The first thing to consider when you’re planning on backpacking with dogs is your pet’s physical condition. Start at your veterinarian’s office. Let them know you’re considering hitting the trail and ask if there are any concerns he or she has.

Overweight, elderly, or dogs with joint issues may need to settle for neighborhood jaunts instead of mountain climbs. Dogs, like people, need to work their way up to any strenuous exercise. Don’t take your pooch on a 3-day hike up a steep trail her first time out.

If you’ve gotten the go-ahead from your vet as far as your dog’s medical health goes, consider also your dog’s psychological health. Is he well socialized? How does he react to other dogs? Joggers?

Keep in mind that you’re likely to encounter mountain bikers, horses, and all sorts of wildlife as well, depending on the type of trail you choose and what time of year you go.

Choosing a location

Assuming your dog is physically fit and knows how to heel, the next step is to hunt for dog-friendly trails. Here are just a few resources than can help in your search for a great hike:

• National Park Service: While not all of our nation’s parks allow dogs, the National Park Service website can tell you which parks are okay for backpacking with dogs and what rules you and your dog will need to follow while out on the trails.

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• hikewithyourdog.com: This site will let you search by state and lists national parks, state parks, and monuments that are okay to bring your dog along to. There’s also a “favorite hikes” section with recommendations for the best trails.

• The Sierra Club: The well-known national organization has many local chapters. Use their main site to search for the chapter nearest to you and try the local site’s trail listings or forums.

• Meetup: While Meetup hosts all sorts of clubs and events, you’re likely to find a number of camping, hiking, and outdoors groups worth joining. The best source for dog-friendly trails in your particular region of the country are other experienced hikers and dog lovers who can give you a first-hand account of what areas are best and which are best avoided.

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