My fiancé and I have a three-year-old German shepherd.  Like most dogs his age, Max is bursting with energy and enthusiasm, and immensely loves his walks and play time.  And, like most dogs, he enjoys a hike in nature.

Hikes are a great way for dogs to burn off all their pent-up energy especially if they’re a city dog like Max.  It’s good not only for their physical health but also for their emotional well being.  And, of course, the outdoor experience with your dog is a great bonding experience.

However, one of the things I've found challenging over the years is finding hiking trails that are dog-friendly (or at the very least, dog-tolerant).  This is especially true if you live in or close to a city.

As we move into summer and enjoy even more temperate climates, chances are you'll be thinking about a hike with your best friend.  But, before you both jump into your car and drive off to the nearest hiking spot, here are a few things to consider. 

1. Assess your dog’s health as well as your own.  Are both of you up for a hike, and if so for how long and how rigorous?  Just like humans, dogs shouldn't be taken on a 10-mile hike the first time out.  They need to work into it to build muscle tone and endurance. 

2. Some dogs are better suited for hikes than others.  Know if your dog’s breed (or mix) is suitable for hikes and, if so, the length that he’s best suited for.  Of course, always consult your veterinarian regarding your dog's health and physical capabilities. 

3, Do your homework.  Once you've identified a place you'd like to hike with your dog, you should call ahead to make sure they allow dogs.  If so, make sure you know all the rules and regulations before you begin your adventure.

4. Consider the weather.  Obviously, the time of year as well as the time of day will affect your hike.  While you’re walking around in your shorts and T-shirt, baseball cap, and sunglasses, considers your dog’s fur coat and how much warmer the beautiful weather feels to him.  And keep in mind, that black or dark colored dogs feel that heat even more.

5. Pack the proper supplies.  Bring enough water for both your dog and you, a collapsible water bowl or hand-held dispenser, treats (energy boosters) for your dog and you, a blanket, a towel, a leash, a bandana that you can moisten to keep your dog cool, and a first-aid kit should either of you experience an injury.  Some things to consider in your kit are booties or vet wrap to cover injured paws and styptic powder to stop bleeding of broken nails.   

6. Up-to-date ID tags.  Make sure your dog has a collar with up-to-date ID tags.  If you have a cell phone with you, having that number on a tag makes sense so you can be contacted on the spot if he’s lost.  Also, having your veterinarian’s number on a tag is a good idea. 

7. How will your dog behave when off the leash?  Test the water first.  Instead of letting him loose for the first time in a 50-acre park with numerous trails, take him to a smaller field (possibly fenced) where you can see how well he’ll obey your commands.  And, smaller places are excellent ways to get your dog used to being off leash.  On a hike, it’s a good idea to bring dog treats along just in case you have to coax your dog back to you.

8. Be aware of your environment.  Are you familiar with the trails, do you know if it’s rattlesnake season (if you live in an area where they live)?  How about fleas and ticks; have you taken some natural precautions for your dog and for you?  Watch out for poison ivy.  While I’ve heard of many dogs not being affected by it, they can pass it on to their human companions who touch their fur where they’ve touched the plant. 

9. Respect other hikers, the wildlife, and the vegetation.  Everyone wants to enjoy the serenity and beauty of nature, so keeping barking and noise down as well as picking up after your dog on trails is respectful of others. 

10. After the hike, check your dog.  It’s important to check your dog for burrs, stickers, footpad injuries, strained muscles, as well as ticks and fleas.  Dogs, even when injured, have a tendency to overlook pain when they’re having a good time. 

This is not an inclusive list, but meant to give you some general guidelines.  There may be other things to consider for each individual dog and companion. 

A website that I have personally found to be very helpful is  Hikewithyourdog.com.  This site provides information on dog-friendly hikes, tours, and is an excellent resource for anyone who is outdoor-bound and wants to share the experience with their best four-legged friend.

Submitted by David Lawrie