Searches for ‘Hiking with my dog’ have risen by 300% in the UK in the past 12 months*, highlighting that many dog owners are looking for the best ways to enjoy their hike with their pooch.
However, it can be hard to know how to keep your dog safe during those wintery hikes, from cold weather to dark nights. As more people embrace outdoor excursions with their four-legged companions, understanding safe hiking practices has become paramount.
Considering this, Dr Emma, Canine behaviourist and resident dog expert at Canine Cottages has provided essential tips for pet owners eager to hike with their dogs while ensuring safety and comfort this winter.
Avoid ruff terrains
To keep your pup safe, Dr Emma suggests skipping challenging terrains like rocky surfaces, cliff edges and steep slopes. “Often, the edge of the cliff can be obscured from the dog’s vision, risking them going too close and falling. Rocky terrains can also be painful and uncomfortable for dogs’ paws, and can cause injuries from slips and falls. Many dogs also find pebbles and gravel painful on their paws and might struggle with this. If there are unavoidable rocky surfaces to traverse on your hike and you’re worried about their paws, you can protect their paws with dog boots. But these will take time for your dog to get used to wearing in advance.”
Obstacles like stiles, bridges, and marshy areas can also put a damper on your dog’s day, especially if they’re large, older, or have mobility concerns. Opting for open and steady paths ensures a smoother journey for all paws involved.
Pick the most pup-approved trails
Almost all dogs love to get their sniff on in the great outdoors, but some trails are more paw-friendly than others. Routes with clear paths, gentle inclines, and manageable terrain are ideal for most dogs, particularly small breeds, older dogs, or those with health conditions. “Routes with trees can be ideal for different weathers, providing shade on summer hikes, so your dog doesn’t get too hot, and protecting from the wind and rain on autumn and winter hikes.”
Hiking with heart: breaks, water, and distance
Knowing when to slow down can make all the difference in a day of happy hiking. Puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with health conditions may prefer shorter, flatter routes with regular breaks. For active, healthy adult dogs, about 2 hours of hiking is perfect with short breaks along the way. Watch for signs of fatigue like slowing down or heavy panting, and make sure to pack plenty of water, treats, and food for fuel. Even if they’re raring to go, a rest every 30 minutes to an hour will keep their tails wagging all day long.
Following the Countryside Code
The Countryside Code is there to keep everyone’s experience awesome and respectful of nature. Key guidelines include keeping dogs under control and close by, especially when livestock or wildlife is nearby. Remember that dogs must be on lead from March to July on Open Access land, even when there’s no livestock present. Picking up after your dog and following signs requesting leads help make the trails inviting for all visitors.
For the full rundown, check out The Countryside Code.
Stay aware of potential hazards
Nature is wonderful, but it does come with its own set of hazards. Dr Emma encourages hikers to be aware of potential issues and to pack a doggie first aid kit. A few things to watch out for:
- Ticks and insects: Tick season is typically March to October, but they can be a year-round issue – watch out for insect bites, especially around your dog’s paws and nose
- Heatstroke: On warm days, pack extra water and take shade breaks to help keep your pup cool
- Wildlife and plants: Keep an eye out for adders, toxic plants , and any contaminated water sources – for pups who love to swim, be mindful of river currents and underwater obstacles
- Sticky seeds: Grass seeds cling to fur and can cause discomfort, so check your dog’s coat regularly on the hike
For more information about exercising safely with your dog, please visit: https://www.caninecottages.co.uk/guides/safe-exercise-with-your-dog