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10 Essential Tips for Hiking and Trail Running with Your Dog

Hiking and trail running with your furry friend can be an amazing experience. To make sure your adventures on the trails are enjoyable and safe, here are some pointers:

1. Choose dog-friendly trails

Pick trails that allow dogs, and consider factors like terrain and length. Look for shaded routes and water sources, especially on warmer days.

While filtered water is safest for your dog to drink, if they are going to drink from a natural water source, choose moving water such as a stream. Try not to let your dog drink from standing water (including old puddles) since it may contain bacteria or toxins which can cause serious water-borne illness (for instance, leptospirosis, giardia, or blue-green algae toxicity).

2. Pack the essentials

Don’t forget to bring enough water and a collapsible bowl or water dispenser, waste bags for cleanup, a leash or harness, and a basic first aid kit for both of you (to keep in the car at the trailhead if not on your person). On a hot day, consider dog-friendly sunscreen and bring plenty of water for drinking and for wetting down your dog’s fur.

If considering a backpack for your dog, we suggest keeping the load to under 5% of your dog’s bodyweight (ex: if you dog weighs 10kg, the total weight of their backpack should be less than 1 kg). If your dog hasn’t worn a backpack before, get them used to it first. And always check for rubbing and abrasions where the backpack and its straps meet your dog.

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3. Train and condition together

Make sure your dog’s body is ready for the trail. Start with a length similar to their daily walks. If the terrain is much rougher than your dog is used to, start with a much shorter distance or put booties on them.

If you want to increase the speed or distance, do it gradually, aiming for approximately 10% increase in either distance or speed per week. For more details on building endurance, check out our article on exercise and conditioning here.

4. Leash etiquette

Respect leash laws and trail guidelines. Keep your dog on a leash unless you’re in designated off-leash areas. Training your dog to have excellent recall will make any off-leash experience much safer and enjoyable.

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5. Watch for signs of fatigue, discomfort or overheating

Keep a close eye on your dog for signs of fatigue, overheating, or paw or limb injury such as slowing down, panting excessively, lying down, or limping. Time to call it quits of those signs develop. If limping develops suddenly, check the bottom of your dog’s paw for wounds, thorns, or balls of ice (Musher’s Secret is great at preventing the latter).

Take breaks in the shade and offer water regularly. Consider using dog booties on rough or snowy terrain.

6. Respect wildlife and other trail users

Be mindful of wildlife and other trail users. Yield to others as needed and keep your dog under control to prevent any accidents or disturbances. Here’s how you and your dog can avoid a snakebite or porcupine encounter.

7. Practice leave-no-trace principles


Pack out all waste, including your dog’s waste, and avoid disrupting natural habitats. Follow trail closures and seasonal restrictions to protect the environment.

8. Use positive reinforcement


Encourage good behaviour from your furry friend with positive reinforcement and rewards. Praise your dog for following commands and staying close. Treats can be a great motivator! Here’s our article on safe trail snacks for your dog and trail food that is toxic to dogs.

9. Check for ticks and wounds


After your hike or run, check your dog thoroughly for ticks and burrs, inspect their paws for cuts or thorns and check for any rubbing or redness wherever a harness or backpack contacts their body (especially check for rubbing from any straps, also the neck area and the armpit regions).

10. Have fun with your doggo 🐶💕

Above all, cherish the time spent exploring the outdoors with your dog. Take breaks to admire the views, snap some photos, hug your dog and create great memories together.

Following these tips will ensure a fun and safe hiking or trail running adventure with your dog. Plan ahead, stay prepared, and prioritize your dog’s happiness and well-being on every outing. Happy trails!

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One response to “10 Essential Tips for Hiking and Trail Running with Your Dog”

  1. Ashley says:

    What a great list! One item I always have with me (for mountain adventures), is an emergency dog carrying harness.

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