As avid hikers/animal lovers, it comes as no surprise that Jake and I have explored our fair share of trails with some four legged companions. As much as we love hiking and exploring just us two, it's a pretty incredible experience to go with them; the way they explore all the new sights and sounds is pretty heart warming.
Although Jake and I do not have our own dog, we often take a dog (or two) from the shelter we volunteer at and head West to the mountains. We have learned through trial and error what works best when having a companion and what doesn't.
I have compiled a list of tips that can help you to have the most adventurous and safe day possible!
1. LEASH/HARNESS & ID TAGS
It is a law to have your dog leashed at all times when hiking in most parks across Canada, for many reasons. Not only is it for your dogs safety, it is also implemented for the safety of others using the trail, protected nature, and any wildlife who call your exploring grounds home.
Please respect nature, and the laws designed to protect it.
Depending on the dog, a collar may be sufficient, however we have always preferred to hike with our dogs wearing harnesses as it reduces any pull or strain on their necks. Furthermore, ID tags are essential when hiking. I cannot tell you how many times I have encountered grief stricken hikers who's dogs have run off without any sort of identification on them. Safety first, always!
2. RESEARCH DOG FRIENDLY TRAILS
This may be a surprise to some, but there are designated trails that do not allow dogs on them. Please do your due diligence and conduct your research on which trails allow your furry friends, and which ones do not.
(this was taken with one of my favorite dogs named Red, on one of my favorite dog friendly hikes, Prairie Mountain)
Click here for a list of the best dog friendly trails in Alberta.
3. TREATS, WATER, FOOD
When preparing for a hike, always ensure that you have plenty of food and water for yourselves, but also for your furry friends! We always bring a bag or container of their food, and ensure that we have plenty of treats available for them. Hiking burns a lot of calories and you need to ensure that your dog keeps his/her energy levels high! When hiking, we usually stop for a lunch break either half way, or at the top of the mountain; this gives you a perfect time to have a picnic with your pooch. For water, we bring a collapsible bowl (bought at the dollar store), and extra water. When you stop for a water break, offer some to your dog. Be careful allowing them to drink water from streams/lakes when on your hike, some water can contain bacteria that can make your dog sick. 
4. POOP BAGS
Please please please bring poop bags! If I had a dollar for every time that I stepped in a fresh pile of dog poop walking down a popular trail, I would have quit my job by now! Many people go out to enjoy these trails, and just as people should Leave No Trace, the same goes for your animals. They may not understand the principle, but it is your responsibility to respect nature and those who also want to enjoy it.
* If you do use a poop bag, please carry it out with you, don't leave it on the side of the trail!
If you catch yourself out, without poop bags, following the Leave No Trace guidelines bury the poop 6 to 8 inches deep, and 200 feet from water, camp or trails.
5.DOG PACK
Completely dependent on your dog, a great idea for hiking with your fur friends is to have them carry their own supplies in their own packs. Before you embark on a hike with your dog wearing a pack, you'll want to give them ample time to get used to it by gradually letting them wear it for longer and longer periods of time when you're at your house, or on a smaller walk.
Dog packs are a great way to lessen the amount of stuff in your pack, and for some anxious dogs, we have found that the pressure on their sides actually calms them if something startles them on the hike.
*please make sure that you enlist help with the fit and style that is right for your dog, and check periodically during the hike to make sure it is not rubbing or harming your dog.
6. MONITOR YOUR DOG
Throughout the hike, keep an eye on your dog for signs of fatigue, injury, overheating, or discomfort. If you notice any sudden changes in gait, whimpering, lameness, or odd behavior, stop and find out why! It's always a better idea to address an issue as soon as it is noticed instead of waiting for it to become a bigger problem!
Although stopping for obvious discomfort is important, make sure you are also stopping regularly to give your dog a break, have some water, food, and a rest. Slow and steady wins the race!
7. FIRST AID KIT
We always carry a first aid kit for ourselves, so it is only common sense to bring supplies for your dog as well.
You can click here for a dog specific First Aid kit, or you can make your own!
For a full list of items that you will want to include in your pet's First Aid Kit, click here.
8. CAMERA
This tip is more for you than for your dog, however never forget your camera when you head out. Your dog appears that much cuter with interesting backgrounds, and can you really ever have enough pictures of your dog?!
9.EXAMINE YOUR DOG BEFORE HEADING HOME
At the end of your hike, when you arrive back at the car you need to do one final check before loading up and heading home. Through thorough observation, your dog should not have any injuries, but the final check is a good time to be sure! If there are any issues, you can address them before you head home, instead of letting them worsen.
Also, you will want to check your dog for bug bites, and ticks! You should always do a thorough check for yourself, anyone who accompanied you, and any animals that were on the hike with you.
I hope this post helps you and your beloved dog enjoy some time out on the trails.
Safety is always first in my book, but I hope you and yours have the most fun exploring. The world is too big, and too beautiful to be bored, and you might as well explore with your best fur friend!
Happy adventuring!!
Til next time friends,
Char <3
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