Backpacking is an amazing outdoor activity that can be fun for the whole family. When you decide to get into the sport of backpacking and would like to take your dog along, there are a number of issues you’ll want to take care of before you head for the trail.
As a beginner, make sure you have all of your bases covered before bringing your dog along to see the sights. Check out these seven backpacking tips from the canine experts at The Pampered Pup that will ensure you and your four-legged friend have the most success on your journey.
1. Make sure your breed is up to the challenge
If you are considering buying or adopting a dog to go backpacking with, do your research first. Not every dog is built for backpacking in the wild. Make sure that a dog you already own is an active breed that can handle long trips on rougher terrain. A smaller breed can still go out with you, but you will want to be prepared to pick them up once in a while if obstacles get in the way. And if you plan for your dog to use their own little backpack, a smaller breed won’t have the ability to carry a lot.
2. Prepare with smaller hikes
If your dog has never been backpacking before, don’t start with a day-long trip. Take them on a few short hikes to see how they react. Dogs that aren’t getting regular exercise will not be able to hike for many miles at a time. Start by taking them for long walks around your neighborhood, gradually increasing the mileage as you go. Once they get used to longer walks, throw in more hills and obstacles. Take your time and be patient with your pup. Soon, they will be ready for that three-day hike in the mountains!
3. Have the right equipment on hand
Your dog will need equipment for their hike, just like you do. If you’ll be in a rougher area, invest in durable dog boots to protect their paws from rocks, sticks, and snow. Make sure to have two sets on hand in case one gets extremely muddy or torn. You’ll also want to bring a collapsible, lightweight bowl for their food and water. If you’re hiking in hot weather, a cooling vest will help keep your pup cooler as you walk. Simply dip it in water before attaching it to your dog to keep their core cooler in the heat.
4. Find the best trail for beginners
Even if your dog can walk for miles around the neighborhood you won’t want to take your first hike on difficult terrain. Before you take off for a trail, make sure that the one you pick is dog-friendly. Remember, many of the trails in National Parks do not allow dogs. Once you learn what trails are dog-friendly, find one that is labeled for beginners. Research the trail to see if there is water available along the way. If there isn’t, be prepared to bring enough for you both.
You should also find out whether there is any dangerous wildlife you could come across, such as rattlesnakes. Make sure you know what to do if you happen to come across a dangerous species with your dog.
5. Always keep your dog under control
If your dog doesn’t listen to you in your yard, don’t expect them to listen to you on a hike in an unfamiliar place. Your dog should listen well to basic commands before you head off on a trail. You never know what can happen when you are hiking, so have a leash on hand as you rack up the miles. If there are a lot of other hikers on the same trail, you should keep your dog leashed at all times.
Your dog should be chipped before you set out on a hike, just in case they get lost. This is especially necessary if you are visiting another town or state. Make sure their dog tag has your current information on it as well. It’s an even better idea to invest in a personalized collar with your information for your dog to wear on your trip. A tag will fall off easier than a collar will.
6. Keep your pup hydrated
Every single time you pause for a break or a snack, offer your dog water. If they aren’t thirsty, you can just pour it back into their water bottle. When you stop and make camp, keep a fresh bowl of water out for them at all times. An initial sign that your dog is becoming dehydrated is a dry nose, so keep an eye on your pup while you are hiking.
7. Let your dog carry its own backpack
Yes, they make backpacks for dogs to carry! When you are out on a trail for hours at a time, you’re likely going to be carrying a number of items for yourself. Your dog can carry the items that they need in their own backpack, such as their water and food dishes, doggy waste bags, extra booties, and treats.
However, it is very important to measure your dog beforehand to get the right backpack. Get a measurement around their chest at home. Then, pick out a durable backpack based on those specific measurements. Pack the items at home and ensure that the weight of the items is distributed evenly. Try going out for a couple of shorter walks while your dog wears the backpack to check for any issues. Don’t load the backpack with too many items, especially for the first trip.
Use these seven tips when you want to start taking your dog on backpacking trips with you. With a little bit of practice and a lot of patience, you’ll be backpacking champs in no time!