Trail Tails: A Guide to Hiking With Your Dog
Precious Bart in New Hampshire!
The weather’s getting warmer, and hiking is a popular option for people and their four-legged friends. Hiking with your dog is a great way to stay active, strengthen your bond, and enjoy the outdoors—but safety has to come first. This guide walks you through how to prep for the trail, protect against parasites, and make every adventure a win for both of you.
Why It’s So Rewarding
There’s something really grounding about exploring nature with your dog by your side. You’re both unplugged, tuned into your senses, and following your curiosity. And for dogs, hikes are more than just exercise since they’re mentally enriching too. The new smells, textures, and terrain give their brains a workout just as much as their legs.
But nature comes with its fair share of risks—especially when the weather warms up. Parasites tend to hang out in the shaded, brushy parts of trails. Rocky or uneven ground can be rough on paws. And honestly, dogs aren’t always the best at pacing themselves when they’re overstimulated or excited. That’s where a little bit of planning goes a long way.
Prioritize Parasite Prevention
Ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes are more than just annoying. They carry serious diseases like Lyme, anaplasmosis, and heartworm. Even short, shaded hikes can expose your dog to bugs hiding in tall grass, leaf litter, or wetland areas.
If your dog isn’t already on monthly prevention, now’s the time to talk to your vet. In high risk areas, year-round protection is usually the safest route. You can also layer your defense by applying a dog-safe bug spray before heading out—especially if your hike includes wooded or swampy areas.
Some sprays use essential oils like cedarwood or lemon eucalyptus. Just be cautious. Not all oils are safe for dogs, and "natural" doesn’t always mean effective. Stick to vet-recommended options and never use bug spray made for humans (especially those with DEET).
Even with prevention, do a full tick check after every hike. Common hiding spots include:
Under the collar or harness
Inside ears and groin area
Between their toes
Around the base of the tail
Pro Tip: Keep a tick remover in your dog’s hiking kit. Tweezers work, but tick keys are easier and safer to use.
Scout Ahead of Time
A trail that looks great for people might not be ideal for pets. Before heading out, take a few minutes to check the trail’s conditions, terrain, and rules. Some areas require leashes at all times or don’t allow dogs at all, especially in wildlife preserves.
What to look for:
Elevation and length
Shade and time of day
Water availability
Hazards like rocks, thorny brush, or recent wildlife activity
Before you go: Always check for trail closures, heat advisories, or wildlife alerts. Some trails close during nesting seasons, require certain colors/items depending on the season, or post warnings about ticks, bears, or coyotes.
Pro Tip: I use AllTrails to scout every hike. It’s a great app for filtering dog-friendly trails and reading reviews from other pet parents!
Build a Trail-Ready Dog Kit
You don’t need a ton of fancy gear, but there are a few trail essentials every dog should have. Think of it like packing a little day bag just for them.
Bring along:
A collapsible water bowl and fresh water
High-reward snacks/treats
Extra poop bags (and something to carry them out)
A tick key or tweezers
Canine first aid basics (vet wrap, gauze, paw balm, antihistamines)
Booties for rough or hot terrain
Cooling gear: a bandana or vest if it’s sunny or humid will do the trick
If your dog’s in good shape and used to hiking, you can try a lightweight dog backpack to carry their own treats and waste bags. Just make sure it fits well and isn’t more than 10–15% of their body weight.
Pace Your Pup! Know the Signs
Dogs love hiking, but they won’t always show when something’s wrong. They might push themselves too hard just to keep up with you. That’s why it’s up to you to watch for subtle signs that they’re getting too tired or hot.
Things to look for:
Slowing down or falling behind
Heavy panting or drooling
Stopping to lie down often
Wobbliness, wide eyes, or odd behavior
Paw injuries are also super common. After your hike, check for small cuts, burns, or anything stuck between their toes. If they’re licking a lot or limping, give them a break for a day or two and use a balm made for dog paws.
Did You Know? Dogs cool from their paws and tongue. If they’re panting hard or walking on hot ground, take a break and cool them down to avoid overheating. Check out my article on how to spot and prevent heat stroke, here.
Trail Manners Matter
Trail etiquette isn’t about being strict—it’s about being smart. Even if your dog is friendly, not every hiker (or dog) is going to feel the same. Some people are scared of dogs. Some are walking senior pets or reactive rescues. Your goal on the trail is to avoid surprises, respect space, and keep things smooth for everyone you pass.
Make sure your dog can confidently:
Walk calmly on leash
Come when called
"Leave it" when tempted
Wait or stay when needed
If you’re still working on recall, skip off-leash hikes for now. A long-line leash is a great compromise—it gives your dog freedom to explore while still staying within safe boundaries. And yep, always pick up your dog’s waste (even if it’s off the trail) and pack it out with you.
Don’t Skip Recovery Mode
Even short hikes can take a lot out of them, especially on hot days or rough trails. And most dogs won’t show you when something’s off right away. That’s why it helps to build a quick post-hike routine into your day. You’ll catch small issues early and keep future hikes just as smooth.
After every hike:
Do a tick and burr check
Watch for limping or soreness
Offer water first, then food
Give them a quiet place to rest and recharge
You can also make note of how your dog handled the trail—especially helpful if you’re building up distance or prepping for longer adventures like camping trips.
Pro Tip: A quick rinse with water or paw wipes helps remove allergens, salt, or heat irritants after your hike. Dogs with sensitive skin or allergies especially benefit from a little post-hike cleaning routine.
Final Thoughts: Safe Hikes Are Happy Ones!
There’s nothing quite like seeing your dog trotting ahead with that tail wagging and nose to the ground. Hiking is good for the body and even better for the bond. But it only works when we do our part to keep our dogs protected, hydrated, and feeling their best.
Prep smart, stay alert, and enjoy the journey. The views (and post-hike snuggles) are always worth it.
FAQs:
How do I know if my dog is ready for a hike?
Start by considering your dog’s age, fitness level, and temperament. If your dog is healthy, enjoys walks, and responds well to commands, they’re probably ready for the trail. Start with short, flat hikes and work your way up.
What if my dog gets a tick during the hike?
Use tweezers or a tick removal tool to gently pull the tick straight out. Avoid twisting. Clean the area, and monitor your dog for signs of illness over the next few weeks. When in doubt, check in with your vet.
Are dog boots necessary for hiking?
They’re not always required, but they help on hot rocks, sharp terrain, or snowy trails. If your dog’s paws are sensitive or the trail is rough, they’re worth packing. Some dogs need time to get used to wearing them.
Can dogs drink from streams or lakes on hikes?
It’s best to avoid it—natural water sources can contain bacteria or parasites that can cause Leptospirosis or Giardia. Bring fresh water and offer it often, especially in hot weather.
How do I know if a trail is dog-friendly?
Check the trail’s website or app listing. Look for leash rules, terrain notes, and dog-specific reviews. When in doubt, call ahead or choose a clearly marked pet-friendly area.
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