Your dogs first hike
There is no better way than exploring the outdoors through a hike - climbing to the top of a mountain, hiking under the trees amongst a forest or conquering rocky terrain. It’s no wonder you want your best four legged friend to join you to adventure together, and they make great hiking companions watching them enjoy and conquer the hike with you. Letting them explore nature and run free is what we all love to do most for our pups.
Getting your dog ready and prepared for your hike is incredibly important - the same way you need the correct gear, equipment and preparation for yourself. These are all considerations you need to make before heading out on your adventure with your pup down to hiking etiquette, which trails allow dogs and brushing up on training for quick and safe recall. All of these preparations will ensure you and your dog are perfectly equipped to experience your hiking adventure!
Keeping your dog safe whilst on your adventure is top priority and that begins with knowing your dogs ability and what they’re able to endure. Be cautious if you have an older dog, perhaps a shorter more comfortable hike will be safer as they may not be able to keep up with you throughout challenging hike. A younger dog may need more thorough training - its important to bare in mind the strain on growing bones may be too much for your young pup. Full training on obedience skills for your dog is a must whilst on a hike, as you must be able to recall with quick response with your dog being completely alert with your next instructions - even more important if your dog gets into a difficult situation where you need to help them safely and promptly. To keep your dog safe, you need to keep your dog in sight.
Another factor to be cautious of when taking your dog out on your hike is the weather conditions. Hiking in hot weather should be minimal as dogs don’t sweat the way we do, meaning they are more susceptible to dangers from excessive heat. It is essential you bring water with you for your dog to ensure they are hydrated and keeping cool throughout their hike, without this your dog may try to drink from rivers and streams, exposing them to possible contamination which could make them unwell. Definitely pack a lots of water bottles, with a portable dog bowl for your pup to drink from.
To ensure you both have the best first hiking adventure, bringing the right equipment with you is essential for a stress free hike. A sturdy lead, harness with reflective material and easy to grab handles alongside a collar with an ID tag will be your top priority to pack. Alongside doggy bags, food and water with a portable dog bowl is a must. If you are hiking in harsh weather conditions, you may want to consider a dog coat to keep your pup warm and dry.
Finally - have fun! Your first hike with your best pal will become the first of many. Exploring the outdoors, no matter where you hike, is a fantastic way to bond with your dog. Both you and your pup can benefit from hikes in similar ways; burn energy and reduce anxiety, exercise and boost serotonin whilst creating memories for life. In no time you and your dog will be racing up to check out the view from the mountain summit, and darting through your trails. You’ll be craving your next adventure as soon as you return, excitedly planning your next hike with your favourite adventure buddy.
