Interested in taking your dog on a hike? Most dogs love to hit the trails, especially if you plan ahead and make sure they have what they need to enjoy the journey. We have some tips to make your hiking adventure with your canine companion a success!

Make sure the trail is dog-friendly

Always check to make sure that your dog is allowed with you on the trail prior to starting on your journey. Even though your dog is a loved member of your family, not every trail is suitable for pets, even the most well-behaved. it’s important to take some extra precautions before starting your spectacular outdoor adventure with your pup.

Some of our favorite pet-friendly trails in Alabama are:

• Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve in Birmingham
• Little River Canyon National Preserve in Fort Payne
• Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail in Orange Beach

Check with your veterinarian first

Ask your veterinarian if your dog can handle a hike. Make sure you let the vet know the distance and difficulty of the trail. With the spring season upon us, we have to remember that most of our dogs are used to short walks around the neighborhood from the past several winter months. Also, check to see if your dog can carry a pack. Know your dog’s limits and respect their needs.

Bring gear to keep your dog safe

Most trails will require you to keep your dog on a leash or waist belt while hiking. Leashing a dog not only protects other hikers, but it also protects your dog from following a scent into the wilderness and away from you. Your dog should also wear a collar with an ID tag and your contact information just in case you somehow get separated. Also, consider a dog pack. A fit and healthy dog can carry up to 12 percent of its body weight, according to dog trainer Cesar Millan. Consider packing a collapsible water bowl, doggie waste bags, and fresh water in the pack.

Look out for poison ivy, oak, and sumac

While dogs won’t have an allergic reaction to these plants, they can carry the oils on their hair and transmit them to you. If you think that your pet has accidentally come into contact with these plants, make sure to wash out the oil as soon as you get home from your hike. A cool-water bath with gentle dish soap should do the trick, but remember to protect your skin by wearing rubber gloves or using a barrier cream.

Steer clear of wildlife

This one is pretty obvious but worth a mention. Look out for snakes, bears, and coyotes.

Plan for extra (fresh) water breaks!

Again, bring fresh water for your dog. Don’t let your pet drink standing water. It can contain a number of bacteria or parasites that can make your pooch sick.

Watch the temperature

If you notice that your dog is stopping to lie down, intensely panting, or foaming at the mouth, then it’s time to find some shade and take a break. Dogs can sweat, but it’s only a small part of the process of cooling them down, so avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day.

Leave the trail as beautiful as you found it

Remember to pack doggie waste bags. Pick up your dog poop as a common courtesy and to protect the environment. Dog waste can be high in nitrogen and phosphorus and actually have the opposite effect of fertilizer. While many of us might think that it will just wash away after the next rain, that is not true. Dog waste can take up to A YEAR to fully break down. So, please, Leave No Trace of your dog waste.

Check your pup for ticks post-hike

Ticks carry diseases that can make pets and people sick. You can find more information on how to examine your dog here.

The easiest way to remember the essential rules to hiking with your dog is to B.A.R.K. The National Park Services has created an acronym to keep you and your pet safe wherever you hike: Bag your pet’s waste. Always leash your pet
Respect wildlife. Know where you can go.

Finally, even though you have a four-legged hiking buddy with you, remember to leave your plans with a friend or family member. Tell someone where you are going, the trails you are hiking, and when you plan to return.

We’ve got the gear you need to make your nature hike with your canine companion a success. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors