If you’re anything like me, every once in awhile you need to escape reality after a long day or week. My favorite activity in the spring, summer and fall is to get away from my everyday life by hiking with my favorite buddy. Hiking with a dog sounds like the best thing in the world and don’t get me wrong, it is, but there are steps to take before and during your sunny day adventure with your favorite pup.
Step One: Obtain a dog
If you own a dog, you have the first step covered. If you’re like me, you know that you’re away from home too much camping or snowboarding to be a dog parent at this point in your life, you will want to “borrow” a dog. In my case, I’m a very proud aunt of an adorable one year old British Red Fox Lab named Copper. My older brother, Copper’s dad, lets me take Copper as I please and wherever I want.
**Be aware: If you are taking a family member’s dog or a friend’s dog, make sure the dog is familiar with you and that they are able to listen to you; this will help you tremendously on the trail.
Step Two: Make sure your dog can manage the hike
When I was growing up I used to go hiking behind my neighborhood with my lab, Bear. He had no issue making the trip, but as he got older it became more of a chore than a trip for him. If your dog tires quickly, make sure the trail you two hike is one they are able to manage in any weather condition. The last thing you want on your hike is for your dog to get too tired to walk or to experience heat exhaustion.
Step Three: Do your trail research
Prevent headaches at the trailhead by making sure the trail you will hike with your dog is dog-friendly. Here in Minnesota all of our state parks are dog-friendly as long as you are with your dog at all times and they are leashed at all times following the guidelines. City parks as well as national parks may be a different story so be sure to check to see if your dog is welcome.
Once you’ve found a dog-friendly trail check to make sure the length and terrain of the trail are suitable for you and your furry friend. If you’re worried your dog won’t be able to make the trip, don’t force them to do it.
Step Four: Pack Your Pooch’s Necessities
Don’t get halfway through the trail only to realize you’ve forgot water for your dog. Below are items you’ll want to pack in your hiking bag:
- Collar
- Updated ID Tags / Microchip
- Leash
- Water (for your pooch and you)
- Dish for Water
- Food (If you plan on being gone all day)
- Poo Bags
- A Toy / Treats (for distraction)
- Bells (to keep bears and other wildlife away)
Step Five: LNT
As lots of outdoorsy people know, LNT stands for leave no trace. This is especially important with your dog’s waste. Dog waste has different nutrients in it than wildlife that can cause harm to the habitat it’s left in. Be sure to clean up your dog’s waste and dispose of it properly.
Step Six: Have Fun
This step should go without saying. Remember that this hike is not only about you escaping but your furry friend getting to warm your soul by joining you on your hike. Enjoy every moment of it. If you’re anything like me, you’ll go to get a well deserved treat after a nice hike with your favorite buddy.
Enjoy your adventure!
–Ashley & Copper