Hiking With Your Dog? Here’s What to Bring

Hiking with your dog can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only will you get to explore the great outdoors, but you’ll also get to spend quality time with your pup. What’s better than that? It’s important to make sure that you’re properly prepared, so you’ll need to bring certain items and follow some guidelines to ensure your furry friend is safe and comfortable.

In this post, we’ll cover all the items you should bring and the considerations you should make when hiking with your pup. From food and water to storage solutions and first-aid supplies, we’ll cover everything you need to know about keeping your pooch happy and safe during your outdoor adventures.

Necessary Supplies

Before heading out on the trail with your dog, you’ll need a few things. Make sure to bring enough water for yourself as well as your pup: investing in a collapsible bowl can be helpful in situations where you don’t have access to a regular bowl or a water source. It’s also a good idea to bring extra water, just in case!

Bringing some treats or snacks can help motivate your pup during your hike, plus it will give them the energy they need to keep going when those trail miles start adding up. Consider getting your dog a backpack to store some key items in, and make sure to keep them on a leash, even on less populated trails. This way, you can ensure that they stay within reach and remain safe while out and about.

Speaking of safety, just like humans, dogs can get injured while hiking. Bringing a first aid kit can help you address any minor injuries. Look for kits that come with supplies like bandages and antiseptic wipes, as well as instruction guides that may come in handy during an emergency.

If you’re going over difficult rocky terrain or through thick brush, wearing booties can help protect your dog’s feet from cuts and abrasions caused by sharp rocks or twigs.

Believe it or not, sunscreen for dogs exists! Dogs have more sensitive skin than humans, so applying sunscreen before going outdoors can be a good idea. This can help protect them from harmful UV rays that may lead to sunburns or other skin irritations depending on their coat thickness and coloration.

If you think your pup might end up going for a swim or wading through bodies of water, make sure you keep a lightweight towel and a life jacket handy.

Last but certainly not least is picking up after your pup! Nobody likes coming across smelly piles of dog doo on their favorite trails, so make sure to always pack enough waste bags for easy cleanup.

Safety and Comfort Tips

In the event you get separated from your pup during your hike, having a GPS tracker can help you locate them should they wander off-trail or get lost in some thick brush (fingers crossed this doesn’t happen!). You can place this tracker on their collar or in their pack.

Before setting off on your adventure, make sure to check out some reviews and information about the length of the trail. You should also look for any other pertinent details, like if dogs are allowed and what types of wildlife may be encountered along the way (if any).

Dogs tend to overheat quickly, so it’s important that their temperature remains comfortable during their outing. You can accomplish this by either taking routine breaks or trying to move under the cover of shade from trees. As always, stay hydrated, and make sure your pup stays hydrated, too.

Finally, don’t forget: this is a marathon, not a sprint!! Too much physical activity too quickly can lead to injuries, so make sure to start slow.

Conclusion

Hiking with your dog is a great way to get some fresh air and bond with your furry friend. However, it’s important to remember to adequately prepare for your hike by bringing all the necessary supplies and following all safety and comfort guidelines. By following the tips in this article and doing your research on the trail you’re hiking, you can ensure that you and your pooch have a safe and enjoyable experience together. So grab your supplies, lace up your shoes, and get ready for a fun and adventurous hike with your pup!