Build up your dog’s walking fitness gradually
A long hike demands more from your dog than an ordinary daily walk. Do not start with a long or challenging route straight away, but build up the duration and pace of the walk step by step. For example, begin with longer walks on flat terrain and then gradually add hills and uneven surfaces. This allows your dog to become accustomed to different types of exertion. Plan sufficient rest between longer training walks too, so your dog has time to recover. Pay close attention to how your dog responds as you build up the exercise, and adjust the duration or intensity when necessary.
Choose a suitable walking route
Choose a walking route that suits your dog’s fitness and experience. Check the length of the route, how challenging the terrain is and what you may encounter along the way. Ideally, avoid routes with narrow passages, steep drops or other sections that could be difficult for your dog. Make sure there are also enough opportunities to rest along the way, and look for routes with plenty of shade in warmer weather. Check the weather before setting off and find out which rules apply to dogs in the walking area, including where your dog must be kept on a lead.
What should you take when hiking with your dog?
During a longer walk, it is important to bring enough supplies for both yourself and your dog. Exactly what you need depends on the route, the weather and the duration of the hike. Make sure you bring:
Before setting off, check that you have everything you need and adapt your equipment to the conditions you expect along the way.
Protect your dog’s paws
During a hike, your dog will encounter different surfaces, such as stones, rough paths and hot ground. Check your dog’s paws and paw pads during and after the walk for injuries and/or irritation. Dog boots can provide extra protection on rough or varied surfaces. Let your dog get used to them beforehand so they can walk comfortably in the boots during the hike. Would you like to learn more about their use and the different options? Read our blog ‘Why are dog boots useful for your dog?’.
Keep a close eye on your dog along the way
Pay close attention to your dog’s behaviour and movements while hiking. Signs of fatigue may include your dog walking more slowly, panting more than usual, becoming less focused or moving with less coordination. Lying down, stopping or refusing to continue can also indicate that your dog is becoming tired. Take regular breaks along the way and give your dog time to rest and drink. Do you notice that your dog is clearly becoming tired? Adjust the walk and avoid putting your dog under further strain.
Hiking with your dog in warm weather
Warm weather calls for extra caution while hiking. When it is warm, it is wise to adjust the duration and intensity of the walk. Dogs can overheat more quickly during exercise, especially at temperatures of around 20 °C and above. Take your dog’s breed, fitness and health into account. In warmer weather, choose the cooler times of day, provide plenty of drinking water and plan rest breaks in shaded areas. Also consider the temperature of the ground, as asphalt and sand can become very hot. Is your dog panting heavily, becoming lethargic or having difficulty moving? Stop the activity and find a cool place. If your dog shows clear signs of overheating, it is important to contact your vet. For more information about exercising safely on warm days, read our blog ‘Dogs and hot weather: 8 tips’.
Consider nature and animals along the way
During a hike, you may encounter wildlife, livestock and other animals. Keep your dog under proper control and put them on a lead where required or when the situation calls for it. Do not allow your dog to chase wild animals, and keep a safe distance from livestock. Check in advance which rules apply to dogs in the nature reserve where you plan to walk. This allows you to respect the surroundings and helps prevent your dog from ending up in an unsafe situation during the walk.
Check your dog after the hike
Take some time after the hike to check your dog thoroughly. Examine their paws and paw pads, and make sure your dog continues to move normally after the exercise and does not behave differently from usual. Also check their coat and skin for ticks, particularly around the ears, armpits, groin and between the toes. It is especially wise to check your dog carefully after a walk through woodland or long grass. Have you found a tick and are unsure how to remove it? Read our blog ‘Removing a tick from a dog: How to do it safely and quickly’.
Well prepared for your adventure together
With proper preparation, you can adapt the hike to your dog’s fitness and needs. Build up to longer walks gradually, choose a suitable route, and bring plenty of water and the right equipment. Keep a close eye on your dog along the way and take breaks in good time. This will help you and your dog set off on your next hike well prepared. Are you unsure whether hiking is suitable for your dog, or do you have another question? Contact our veterinary team at veterinarian@vetsend.co.uk.
