PETA gives tips for the optimal tour in the company of your beloved four-legged friend
Stuttgart. Exploring nature and getting plenty of exercise is just as good for dogs as it is for their people: hiking reduces stress levels, strengthens fitness, but also the bond between owner and dog and creates space for an uncomplicated break from everyday life. However, hiking with your animal roommate requires a little more planning. Jana Hoger, specialist for animal companions at PETA, has put together the points that need to be taken into account so that two- and four-legged friends can really enjoy the tour.
“The time out for humans and dogs in nature is something very special and promotes the bond between dog and owner. In order to hike safely through mountains, along rivers, through forests and valleys, a checklist can be helpful,” says Jana Hoger. “With the right equipment, careful preparation and obtaining the necessary information about suitable routes and regulations such as possible leash requirements, nothing stands in the way of a successful trip.”
In principle, every dog enjoys a hike, but dog owners should make sure that their animal companion is healthy, can handle the demands of the tour and is physically mature. Of course, puppies also love nature – but they are not yet suitable for long hikes because their bones and muscles still have to be fully developed. Depending on how big, sporty and happy the animal is, there are differences to consider when selecting route length and condition. Small dogs also like hiking. However, long mountain tours are rather unsuitable for them.
Tip: A hiking backpack or a dog stroller in which your four-legged friend can relax from hiking is advisable for small and older animals. This means they don't have to do everything themselves and are still close to their people.
Which dogs shouldn't hike?
Caution is advised with dogs that are prone to hip problems due to their breeding, such as Golden Retrievers or German Shepherds. Long hikes are unsuitable or even dangerous, especially for dogs with breeding-related breathing problems such as French bulldogs or pugs. In order to clarify to what extent hiking is an option for the respective dog and how great the stress can be, you can consult your veterinary practice.
In principle, the route should not be too demanding at the beginning, especially for inexperienced animals. Just as people have to physically prepare for a hiking trip lasting several days, dogs should also be introduced to hiking slowly:
Increase kilometers slowly: It is advisable to gradually increase your daily dog walks and start with short hikes in the area.
Training altitude: Dog owners should gradually incorporate altitude into the excursions in order to gradually get the dog used to running uphill.
Strengthen dexterity: It is helpful to always let the dog balance securely over tree trunks or stones. This trains his balance and helps him when hiking in the mountains.
Practice recall: Before starting, every dog should master the most important commands, such as staying and retrieving. If the dog reacts only slowly, a walking leash may be useful.
Tip: Before a multi-day hiking holiday with your dog, it is advisable to take a first aid course for dogs so that you can help quickly and effectively in an emergency.
Make sure you have the right equipment
Another prerequisite for a successful hike with a dog is the right equipment. The packing list for hiking with a dog should include:
- Dog first aid kit (with disinfectant, bandages, tick tweezers)#
- Dog harness and dog leash
- Possibly paw shoes for dogs to protect against sharp stones and injuries
- Drinking bottle with enough water
- foldable travel bowl
- Eat (dry food and treats)
- small towel to dry off
- Dog blanket for breaks
- muzzle (compulsory in some mountain railways)
- EU pet passport
- GPS tracker if necessary
While water, a drinking bowl, a leash, a dog harness and a first aid kit are standard equipment when hiking with a dog, dog shoes are (for animals that allow paw protection), A towel or a dog blanket is necessary for breaks, especially on longer hikes in the mountains.
Tip: Many veterinary practices put together a first aid kit for dogs and advise which items should be included in the dog's first aid kit.
Planning requirements for hiking with dogs
Not every hike that people do well is also suitable for dogs. Since they walk on four paws, rough, steep paths or via ferrata passages are taboo for them. It is also important that the hiking trail (especially in summer) is not too sunny. Dogs regulate their body temperature largely by panting and are therefore more prone to heat stroke.
Tip: Paths that lead through a forest or along a cooling stream are ideal for dogs.
When planning a route, dog owners are well advised to focus on the individual possibilities of their animal companion. Healthy and active dogs can usually cover 15 kilometers without any problems. Trained dogs can even run 30 kilometers or more. The prerequisite is that you take a longer break regularly (at least every two hours).
Safety tips for hiking with a dog
Extreme heat, steep terrain, poisonous plants or conflicts with wild animals: There are also potential dangers for the animal when hiking with a dog. It is therefore important to stay on the marked paths and make sure that the dog does not eat any plants or startle wild animals.
Be careful when encountering cows and dogs: Cows can perceive dogs as a threat. If the hiking trail leads past cows, dog owners must always keep their companion on a leash. Leashes are also required in many national parks and nature reserves.
Whether it's a day trip, a hiking weekend or a tour lasting several days: after hiking, rest and a hearty meal for the dog are a must. Paws and fur should also be checked for injuries and ticks.
PETA wishes all hikers happy and safe trips.