Hiking With Your Dog: Easy Trail Tips for Pet Parents

Some people hike for the views. Some hike for the exercise. And some of us hike because there's a dog at the door doing the "is it time?" dance.

If you'd like to trade the neighborhood loop for a real trail, a little planning goes a long way. Here's how to keep your trail buddy safe, happy and welcome.

1. Find a dog-friendly trail first

Not every trail allows dogs. Rules vary between city parks, state parks, national forests and national parks. Many national parks only allow pets in developed areas like campgrounds, parking lots and some paved paths.

Check the land manager's website before you go for leash rules, closures and wildlife activity. The National Park Service sums up good manners with the B.A.R.K. rule:

• Bag your pet's waste
• Always leash your pet
• Respect wildlife
• Know where you can go

2. Make sure your dog is ready

Your dog may sprint around the yard for an hour, but hills, rocks and heat are a different workout. Start with a short, easy trail and build up gradually, just like you would.

3. Keep the leash on (and short)

Even the best-behaved dog can't resist a squirrel. A leash protects your dog from wildlife and steep drop-offs, and keeps other hikers comfortable.

National parks that allow pets require a leash no longer than six feet, a good rule anywhere. When you pass hikers, horses or bikes, step aside and keep your dog close.

4. Pack for two

Your dog can't carry a water bottle (unless you get them their own pack, which is adorable). Here's their half of the gear:

5. Beat the heat

Dogs don't sweat the way we do, so they can overheat faster. In summer, hike early or late, pick shady trails and take breaks.

Hot ground can burn paw pads too. Press the back of your hand to the pavement or rock. If you can't comfortably hold it there for a few seconds, it's too hot for paws.

6. Be smart about water

Offer water often, especially on warm days. Lakes and streams are a highlight of any dog hike, but not all water is safe.

Skip stagnant water, and stay out of water that looks scummy, discolored or has posted warnings. Some algae blooms can be toxic to dogs. When in doubt, share your own clean water.

7. Protect those paws

Rocky trails and gravel can wear on paw pads. Check paws during breaks for cuts, cracks or burrs.

If you hike rough ground often, dog booties can help. Expect a few comedy-level high-steps while your dog gets used to them.

8. Do a tick check after every hike

Ticks love tall grass as much as your dog does. Run your hands over your dog, paying attention to ears, neck, armpits, between the toes and around the tail. Remove ticks promptly, and ask your vet about tick prevention for your area.

Check yourself while you're at it.

9. Leave the trail better than you found it

Good manners keep trails open to dogs. Stay on the path, don't let your dog chase wildlife, pack out every bag, and only let your dog say hi to people and dogs when they're invited.

Hiking with a dog makes you slow down. You notice more, stop more and laugh more. It's not about the miles; it's about muddy paws, a happy tail and a snooze in the back seat on the way home.

Find your next favorite tee in our Pet Lovers collection, or grab something trail-ready from Outdoor Tees. Happy trails, and give your pup a scratch behind the ears from us.