What’s better than going on a beautiful hike this fall? Going on a hike with your dog, of course! Hiking is an excellent way to get your steps in, spend time outdoors, and admire the Earth.
It’s also an opportunity to spend time with your canine companion. Of course, there are certain things that you should keep in mind when you are hiking with a dog, but as long as you do your research ahead of time (which is what you’re doing by reading this article), you and your pup will be all set for an excellent adventure.
One of the most important things to know about hiking with your dog is that you will have to be prepared. This will help ensure that your journey is a successful one. Furthermore, you want to select a safe trail for both you and your pup to enjoy. Luckily, there are plenty of trails that are suitable for your dog to accompany you. It’s simply a matter of finding the right one.
At Kabo, we are passionate about educating, elevating and advocating for your dog to live a healthier and happier life.
That’s why we’re giving you the resources and knowledge that you need to be properly equipped to go hiking with your pet. First, we will share some important information regarding what you need to know about hiking with a dog.
After that, we will share some information on why bringing your dog with you to go hiking is actually an excellent idea. If you are unsure of what trails you can go on, keep reading! We also rounded up some of the best dog-friendly hikes in Canada and are excited to share the results with you. Lastly, we’ll share everything we know about the things that you can’t leave home without when you’re hiking with your dog.
The mountains are calling; let’s get started!
Hiking with your dog is an enjoyable experience, but it certainly does provide ample preparation. When hiking with your dog, you should be mindful that you are on a safe trail for your furry friend. Additionally, you will have to pack supplies for both of you.
However, before you embark upon this adventure, there are some questions you should ask yourself. Be sure to be honest with yourself because that’s the only way you will be able to take your dog out on the hike safely. First, is your dog fit enough for a hike? If they tire after taking a block-long walk outside of your apartment, a hike might not be quite the right activity for your pooch.
If you have questions about if your dog can go hiking with you, you can always reach out to a trusted veterinarian who understands your dog’s fitness and activity level. They will be able to advise what the safest approach is or if taking your dog for a hike is out of the picture for now. Alternatively, some dog breeds are simply better suited to adventuring than others.
If your dog is either young or old, you should really be cautious about bringing them with you on a hike. They could be unable to keep up with your pace. In addition to this, you should be sure not to take your furry friend on an adventure in scorching temperatures. Dogs are susceptible to struggling in excessive heat, so you want to be mindful of your pet’s well-being before you decide to embark on a hike in hot weather.
Hiking with a pet comes down to one golden rule: safety first. As a loving pet owner, it’s your top priority to keep your dog safe when you are taking them out on an adventure with you.
Remember to take water specifically for your pet. If you see them panting, you can offer them water, as this is the primary way that dogs stay cool. In addition, you should be mindful that your dog does not consume water from standing pools of water or streams. These could potentially contain bacteria or parasites, and the result could be extremely dangerous for your pet.
Lastly, you should do your homework on the area that you are bringing your pet, and if there is a free or tick risk, you should use a preventative measure that a trusted vet recommended. In addition, once you are done hiking, thoroughly examine your pet to ensure no ticks or fleas latched on. You can even consider bathing your dog after the adventure.
There is actually a handy acronym that will help you keep in mind the main rules of visiting a trail with your beloved pet. Let’s talk about what B.A.R.K. means and how you could put it into practice when hiking with your dog.
B: Bag up your pet’s waste (no one wants to step in your dog’s poop!)
A: Always be sure your pet is on a leash (trails are vast, and finding your dog could prove difficult)
R: Respect wildlife and nature (remember: you and your dog are visitors!)
K: Know where you can go (be sure to make sure the area is safe before you visit, and know that it’s suitable for your dog to join you on a hike)
Bringing your dog to hike with you is a great idea if your dog is trained and up for the challenge. Remember: if your dog does not have basic etiquette, then the trails probably aren’t suitable for them! However, if your dog does, and they’re fit enough to go on a hike, there’s plenty of reasons why bringing your canine companion is an excellent idea. Let’s discuss some of those.
For one, hiking with your pet can be an excellent bonding experience. It can teach both of you to trust each other more, and not to mention; it’s an opportunity to spend more time together. Furthermore, hiking can provide your pup with a good amount of exercise and the opportunity to enjoy nature—which is especially prevalent during the beautiful fall season!
In addition to this, dogs can provide you with companionship when you are on the trail. If you would rather hike with a companion, your pet can provide you with that. Enjoying time outdoors with your best friend? Sign us up!
Before you bring your dog on the trail with you, you should first do some background research to ensure that the trail you are considering is dog-safe and friendly. Some trails are not, so planning accordingly will be necessary.
Our first suggestion of where you can bring your dog for a hike is the Eldred King Woodlands. Located in Ontario, you can bring your leashed pet on a hike through this beautiful wooded area. This space earns points for being massive and for the fact reviewers say that it is fairly easy.
Next, we have a spot in Quebec where dog owners can enjoy. Known as Au Diable Vert, this park is ideal for pet owners that want to explore 14km of trails that are also well-marked. This park is equipped with beautiful views, offers easier paths and more challenging routes for experienced hikers and several other outdoor activities. You will love this park just as much as your dog does!
On the other coast, we have Jackie Parker Park. This open space is smaller than some of the other trails mentioned, but it works for those looking to go on a walk on a natural path. Your dog also can romp around off the leash. In addition, you’re sure to find other dog owners to befriend at this park in Alberta.
If you are local to British Columbia, you should certainly visit Pacific Spirit Regional Park. This pet-friendly area is likened to a giant forest within the city, according to one reviewer. There are 30 miles of trails, and dogs are permitted to go on the trails as long as they are on the leash.
However, if you bring your furry friend with you, you will have to avoid the beaches, as dogs are not allowed there. In addition, there is a portion of the park where dogs are allowed to walk around off of their leash. This park also is open every day.
This will ensure that you, your dog, and other people around with their pets will have the best possible experience on these trails.
So, you’ve decided to head out on a hike with your furry friend. Here is what you need to bring when you go out on a hike with your dog.
The first thing you need to bring is water. This will keep your dog hydrated and ensure that they do not drink water that could actually be harmful to them from a pond or stream. You should also bring a bowl for your dog to drink that water out of.
You should also anticipate your dog defecating somewhere along the way and bring poop bags with you. In addition, be sure your pet has a collar with ID tags on it and that you brought a six-foot-long leash that is sturdy and safe.
A first aid kit for your dog, as well as an insect repellent that your vet-approved, is helpful too. If you are adventuring in rough terrain, you can also bring your dog booties to protect their paws from damage.
Lastly, bring your dog food so they can keep their energy levels up. You can toss a few Monch Bars into your bag. Not only were they formulated with Kabo’s delicious, balanced food, but they are also tasty for your pet and ideal for an on-the-go snack. These treats are better than a treat, made in Canada, and actually, support your dog’s gut bacteria health.
Monch Bars offer omega 3, protein sources, fiber, and antioxidants designed to reduce discomfort. They’re also baked—never fried—and consist of healthy superfoods that will support your dog’s body.
Congratulations, you are ready to embark on an exciting adventure with your pet! Don’t forget to toss a few Monch Bars into your bag and plenty of water. All of us here at Kabo wish you happy trails and happy tails!
