BEHAVIOUR
5 min
Hiking with Dogs: 10 Expert Tips Every Parent Must Know!
Hiking with dogs can have several benefits for you and your dog. Dog expert Karishma F shares key benefits, guidelines, and travel essentials to keep in mind.
Table of contents
For city dogs, walks often mean quick loops around the same neighbourhood, dodging traffic, passersby, and the same old sights and scents. So, when you go hiking with your dog, whether it’s a forest trail, a riverside path, or a quiet stretch of hills, it can feel like a welcome experience. Hiking with dogs offers far more than just physical stimulation, it can provide a rich sensory experience and a break from routine.
As more pet parents look for ways to keep their dogs happy and healthy, hiking has become a go-to option. But before you hit the trail, a little planning can go a long way. This guide covers why hikes are great for dogs, what to pack, safety tips, and how to make the experience safe and rewarding for your city dog!
As more pet parents look for ways to keep their dogs happy and healthy, hiking has become a go-to option. But before you hit the trail, a little planning can go a long way. This guide covers why hikes are great for dogs, what to pack, safety tips, and how to make the experience safe and rewarding for your city dog!
Ditch the ol' walk around the block for a fun nature trail!
Is Hiking Good for Dogs? 4 Physical and Mental Benefits for Dogs
Nature hikes are a full-body experience for dogs and can offer multiple dimensions of canine enrichment. Let’s look at some physical and cognitive benefits of hiking for dogs:
1) Boosts Brain Function
When dogs go hiking, especially on a long leash, they get to move freely and use their senses more than usual. The ability to follow their instincts and explore new smells, sights, and textures can keep their mind sharp and happy, especially for older dogs.
Research: Bray, E. E., Raichlen, D. A., Forsyth, K. K., Promislow, D. E. L., Alexander, G. E., MacLean, E. L., & Dog Aging Project Consortium. (2023). Associations between physical activity and cognitive dysfunction in older companion dogs: Results from the Dog Aging Project. Geroscience, 45(2), 645–661.
Read the study here.
2) Builds Confidence
Navigating through uneven paths, crossing streams, and following their scents helps dogs, especially those who feel nervous, become braver and more confident. Unlike their urban lives, dogs can choose to follow a scent and run at their natural speed.
Research: Hunt, R. L., Whiteside, H., & Prankel, S. (2022). Effects of environmental enrichment on dog behaviour: Pilot study. Animals, 12(2), 141.
Read the study here.
3) Improves Heart and Muscle Health
Regular hiking strengthens dogs’ muscles, improves their coordination, and keeps their joints moving well. It also helps their heart stay healthy and builds endurance.
Research: Lee, H. S., & Kim, J. H. (2020). The dog as an exercise science animal model: A review of physiological and hematological effects of exercise conditions. Physical Activity and Nutrition, 24(4), 1–6.
Read the study here.
4)Lowers Stress Hormones
Spending time in nature lowers cortisol, the stress hormone, in both dogs and humans. This means hiking can have a calming effect on anxious or reactive dogs.
Research: Lee, G. H., Jo, W., Kang, T. K., Oh, T., & Kim, K. (2023). Assessment of stress caused by environmental changes for improving the welfare of laboratory Beagle dogs. Animals, 13(6), 1095.
Read the study here.
1) Boosts Brain Function
When dogs go hiking, especially on a long leash, they get to move freely and use their senses more than usual. The ability to follow their instincts and explore new smells, sights, and textures can keep their mind sharp and happy, especially for older dogs.
Research: Bray, E. E., Raichlen, D. A., Forsyth, K. K., Promislow, D. E. L., Alexander, G. E., MacLean, E. L., & Dog Aging Project Consortium. (2023). Associations between physical activity and cognitive dysfunction in older companion dogs: Results from the Dog Aging Project. Geroscience, 45(2), 645–661.
Read the study here.
2) Builds Confidence
Navigating through uneven paths, crossing streams, and following their scents helps dogs, especially those who feel nervous, become braver and more confident. Unlike their urban lives, dogs can choose to follow a scent and run at their natural speed.
Research: Hunt, R. L., Whiteside, H., & Prankel, S. (2022). Effects of environmental enrichment on dog behaviour: Pilot study. Animals, 12(2), 141.
Read the study here.
3) Improves Heart and Muscle Health
Regular hiking strengthens dogs’ muscles, improves their coordination, and keeps their joints moving well. It also helps their heart stay healthy and builds endurance.
Research: Lee, H. S., & Kim, J. H. (2020). The dog as an exercise science animal model: A review of physiological and hematological effects of exercise conditions. Physical Activity and Nutrition, 24(4), 1–6.
Read the study here.
4)Lowers Stress Hormones
Spending time in nature lowers cortisol, the stress hormone, in both dogs and humans. This means hiking can have a calming effect on anxious or reactive dogs.
Research: Lee, G. H., Jo, W., Kang, T. K., Oh, T., & Kim, K. (2023). Assessment of stress caused by environmental changes for improving the welfare of laboratory Beagle dogs. Animals, 13(6), 1095.
Read the study here.
Hiking can offer a great channel for your dog's natural instincts!
How To Safely Hike with Your Dog: 10 Essential Guidelines to Keep in Mind
Hiking with your dog is more than just an outdoor activity- it’s a bonding experience that, when done thoughtfully, can become a healthy and sustainable habit for both of you. Here are 10 practical guidelines to follow:
- Choose dog-friendly trails with distance and terrain suited to your dog’s breed, age, and energy levels. Shaded, soft-surface trails are ideal for beginners. Respect trail rules and be aware of dog restrictions, especially in national parks, wildlife reserves, or eco-sensitive zones.
- Scout the trail alone before bringing your dog. This helps you check for safety hazards like steep drops, broken glass, resident wildlife, or tricky terrain.
- Go with a group if you are new to hiking or unfamiliar with the location. it is always good to hike either with a dog trainer who knows the trail or a group of parents to ensure you have the support you need in case of emergencies.
- Don’t hike alone, especially if you are new to hiking with your dog or unfamiliar with the trail. Consider going with a dog trainer who knows the route, or join a group of fellow pet parents. This way, you will have support if anything unexpected comes up.
- Choose a suitable time for hiking to avoid extreme heat or cold. In most parts of India, it is ideal to go hiking early morning or in the evening before sunset to avoid extreme heat. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
- Start small and build up gradually. Begin with short hikes (1–2 km) on easy trails, then increase distance and difficulty based on your and your dog’s fitness and comfort.
- Watch out for signs of stress or exhaustion in your dog, including excessive panting, lagging or licking paws. Even if your dog looks okay, take frequent breaks to ensure that they rest and hydrate.
- Use a long leash for your dog to allow your dog to explore freely while still under your supervision. This can protect your dog from local wildlife, unsteady terrains, etc. Work on building a strong recall. Do not use retractable leashes.
- Always clean up after your dog. Carry poop bags and dispose of them properly to protect local flora and wildlife.
- Build consistency by hiking regularly. Even once a week creates a positive habit and helps your dog look forward to the experience.
What to Pack for a Safe Hike: Travel Essentials
Preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your dog:
- Use a long leash (10–30 feet) to give your dog some freedom while keeping them safe. Avoid retractable leashes, as they can be difficult to manage.
- Carry water for both you and your dog, along with a collapsible bowl for easy drinking.
- Bring poop bags to clean up after your dog.
- A basic first-aid kit is useful in case of minor injuries or emergencies.
- Ensure that your veterinarian-recommended tick-n-flea prevention measures, as well as vaccinations, are up-to-date.
- Pack some small treats or light snacks to reward or encourage your dog during the hike.
- Wear terrain-appropriate outfits and sturdy trekking shoes, and carry your essentials in a backpack so your hands are free to handle the leash comfortably.
Post-Hike Recovery
A strenuous activity like hiking will have the same effect on our dogs’ bodies as it does on ours. Here are some post-hike measures to take to ensure your dog’s well-being:
With enough time and practice, going hiking with your dog can become a shared ritual that supports physical wellbeing, emotional balance, and a deeper connection with nature. All it takes is a little patience, the right preparation, and a sense of curiosity and adventure- something both you and your dog will bring to every trail you explore.
Happy Pet Parenting!!
- Brush your dog’s coat after the hike to check for any ticks, fleas, or other pests. Check your dog’s paw pads for cracks, abrasions, or debris.
- If your dog takes a dip in a water body, ensure that you give them a thorough bath afterwards.
- Gentle stretching or a short massage can help with muscle recovery.
- Ensure they get ample sleep to process the experience physically and mentally.
With enough time and practice, going hiking with your dog can become a shared ritual that supports physical wellbeing, emotional balance, and a deeper connection with nature. All it takes is a little patience, the right preparation, and a sense of curiosity and adventure- something both you and your dog will bring to every trail you explore.
Happy Pet Parenting!!
Keywords:
hiking with dogs,
hiking with your dog,
is hiking good for dogs,
how to safely hike with your dog
Get daily pet parenting tips to your Whatsapp
thePack.in
Happier together
with dogs
Copyright Interspecies Caretech Private Limited 2023