Hiking With Your Dog? Everything You Need to Know

If there is one thing dogs need, it’s exercise. Most dogs require anywhere from half an hour to two hours worth of walking every day to stay fit and healthy. As such, it may be a good idea to take your dogs on long hikes. This is a fantastic way to enjoy the scenery, get your daily exercise, and spend some quality time with your furry friend. In addition, the new environment will provide plenty of mental stimulation for your dog as well.

However, while hiking with your dog can be fun, you need to keep a few things in mind before you head off on your local trail.

Within this article, we’ll be covering all the essential equipment and apparatus you will need to ensure your dog stays comfortable during the hike and enjoys the day without any hiccups.

If you’d like to know more, check out the rest of the article below. Let’s get started!

Dog Tactical Vest

A tactical vest is a vital piece of apparatus for your dog, particularly when hiking. They usually come with extra handles so that you can control your dog easily. In addition, they will often have numerous leash hooks for added security, and they will fit snugly around your dog’s body without constricting their movement. In short, a tactical vest is a must if you want your dog to remain comfortable and safe while on your hike.

For more information on dog tactical vests, please visit our buying guide for the best tactical vest of 2024.

Dog Backpack

When you take your dog hiking, you are going to need plenty of supplies to keep your dog happy, comfortable, and hydrated. You’ll need plenty of healthy treats and water, as well as poop bags, a leash, and even their favorite toys. When you combine this with everything else you need to carry for yourself, your bag will start getting heavy.

Luckily, you can purchase a dog backpack to help ease the load. These handy pieces of equipment strap onto your dog, much like a harness, and come with numerous pockets in which you can store your dog’s supplies with ease. Of course, we do not recommend keeping your leash in this backpack, as you’ll never be able to catch your dog if he runs away with it!

If you’d like some help choosing a backpack, check out our dog backpack buying guide.

Dog Carrier Backpack

If you are an experienced hiker who can walk many miles, a dog carrier backpack (not to be confused with a regular dog backpack) is essential if you are bringing your pup. Many smaller breeds don’t have the stamina to walk extremely long distances and will sooner give up. If you’ve ever tried to get a dog to walk who doesn’t want to, you’ll understand how stubborn they can be. However, if you have a dog carrier backpack, you’ll be able to pick your dog up and secure them to your body while you continue your hike. This way, your dog still enjoys the sights and sounds of the hiking trail but doesn’t have to walk anymore if their little legs can no longer carry them – or if they are just feeling lazy.

Dog Boots

Dog boots are a must for any long hikes with your four-legged companion, particularly if you live in a hot climate. Dog’s have very sensitive paws. If the pads of their feet are exposed to rough terrain or hot ground for too long, the skin will crack and cause your dog unnecessary pain. We recommend a quality pair of dog boots to protect your dog’s paws and let them enjoy their walk without any issues. Heck, you could even match your dog’s boots with an adorable dog bandana just to make them look even more trendy when they’re out on the trail.

Thank you for taking the time to read our article. We hope we’ve given you some valuable tips on keeping your dog safe and comfortable during their next hike.