Hiking with Dogs

One of the most effective ways to prepare your furry companion even before you go hiking with dogs is to give them a taste of the wild and what better way to do that than through the community? You should start by taking your dog for walks with other dog owners. You can also spend some time with them in spaces that have been particularly designed keeping this purpose in mind such as a farm. Apart from this, you can also research the trail beforehand so that you can better acclimatize your dog.

Before you go hiking with dogs, you have to first ascertain that your pet is physically fit and has the ability to handle the demands of the trail. For this, you must consult a doctor who will in turn take several factors into consideration such as the size of the dog, its breed, personality, age, and much more. The doctor can assess your dog’s fitness level, give an evaluation on their range of motion, as well as alert you on any possible health concerns. Besides, different hiking places have different sets of demands and your pet’s doctor can decide best if they need to be administered a vaccine before heading out on the trail.

Just like human beings, dogs need plenty of water or they may succumb to dehydration and sunstroke especially if they spend a lot of time out in the sun. They are also prone to sunstroke and thus it is critical that you keep them hydrated by offering them water from time to time when on the hike. You should keep an eye on your dog to ensure they are not overheating as well. Give them plenty of rest on the trail and ensure they are able to cool down in shaded areas with a drink of water as and when necessary.

Your dog, just like you, will be in need of quick replenishments and refueling when on a hike. When you go hiking with dogs, it is imperative that you bring plenty of dog food with you as most hiking trails are located in remote areas where you may not find it at local stores. Besides, it is easiest to pack dry dog foods and dog treats when you go hiking. It is a good idea to also carry a collapsible water bowl for your dog for ease and comfort. Carrying some toys for your dog is also a great idea to keep them entertained throughout the journey.

Most trails require dogs to be on a leash as you will need to keep a close eye on them. You have to keep in mind that your dog might get excited, wander away, and not come to you at your every command. Hence it is very important that you start leash training before going hiking with dogs. You will need to keep your dog on a long and loose leash but this will require considerable practice. Be careful that the leash does not get entangled in trees and bushes in the jungle and try to match your pace with your dog.

If your dog is not used to physical activity, start with shorter, easier hikes and gradually increase the length and difficulty as your dog builds up their endurance. Many puppies who have been otherwise raised in a domestic environment, take time to acclimatize themselves to the outside world. So, before going hiking with dogs, it is important that you help them spend more and more time outdoors and note how they respond to different surroundings. Moreover, making your dog spend time outdoors will help encourage the spirit of exploring new places in them.

Located in the Mandi district of the state of Himachal Pradesh, the Prashar Lake trek is one of the best hiking trails with dogs. The trek goes all the way up to an ancient temple that faces a floating island in a pond. It is an easy-moderate trek that takes you through beautiful rhododendron forests and includes certain parts with a steep incline. By picking this trail, you can expose your dog to a slightly challenging trail. You will also get a chance to note how your dog responds to the Himalayan weather conditions and high altitudes. 

The Kheerganga trek is known for its immense scenic beauty with excellent views of mountains, forests, and rivers which can be enjoyed with dogs. It is one of the best hiking trails with dogs for its easy accessibility and you can also complete it within just a day. It is quite suitable for your dog for its lush green forests and open meadows which provide a natural and friendly environment for them to explore. Besides, there are several streams and water sources available along the way that help your dogs stay hydrated. You will find several campsites on the trek which allow dogs to stay.

This is one of the best hiking trails with dogs if you are looking for a trail where you can introduce your pet to trekking in the mighty Himalayas. It is quite a popular trail among trekkers that starts from a small Himalayan village and goes through picturesque routes to Deori Tal Lake. It is well laid out and chances of your dog wandering off into the unknown are minimal. The trek is quite short and a good place to begin if you are going with your dog. Moreover, in order to first reach the village of Sari, you have to take a long journey which also helps prepare your dog for the actual trek.

This is yet another trek that is considered to be one of the best hiking trails with dogs for its immense natural beauty that can be enjoyed by your pets. You get stunning views of the Dhauladhar range, Kangra valley, and the surrounding hills. The Triund trek is a one-day trek and is classified as an easy to medium one. Thus it is a great place to start off if you want to initiate your dog into going hiking with you.

The breathtaking beauty, greenery, and fresh air at the Nag Tibba trek give a great experience to your dog especially if they are going hiking for the first time. It is a great way to explore the Lesser Himalayan region’s wilderness with your pet. The great outdoors also help you bond well with your furry friend without making it undergo too much hardship. It is a well-marked trail that is relatively easy to follow, making it a great option if you are going hiking with dogs for the first time. The trail gives plenty of opportunities to make stops for rest along the way.

This is a peaceful and beautiful place thus is also one of the best hiking trails with dogs. You go through some of the most picturesque locations that your pet is bound to enjoy thoroughly. The Kareri lake trek is considered an easy to moderate one which is suitable for most fitness levels. There are however some steep drop-offs along the way but keeping your dog on a leash will easily solve any problem that may emerge. Once you reach Kareri lake, both you and your dog can go for a refreshing swim in the clear waters of the lake.