6 Hiking Tips For You And Your Dog
Planning a summer hike with your dog? With warmer weather on the horizon, it's the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors with your furry friend. Hiking is not only a fun way to stay active, but it's also a great bonding experience for you and your dog. To help you get the most out of your adventure, here are six essential tips for hiking with dogs.
1. Research Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails
Before hitting the trail, do your homework. Use apps like AllTrails to find local dog-friendly hiking trails. Look for info on:
- Trail difficulty and length
- Elevation gain
- Shade availability (to avoid overheating)
- Dog leash requirements
For puppies or senior dogs, opt for shorter, low-impact trails. If trails are exposed to the sun, apply Pet Releaf’s Skin & Paw Releaf Topical to protect your dog’s paws from heat and rough surfaces.
2. Keep Your Dog on a Leash
Most public trails require dogs to be leashed. It keeps your pup safe from wildlife, other hikers, and dangerous terrain. Leashing also helps you avoid fines or conflicts with rangers.
Make sure your dog’s ID tags and microchip info are up to date in case they get lost. If your dog isn’t used to walking on a leash, practice leash training ahead of time for a stress-free outing.
3. Pack It In, Pack It Out
When hiking with your dog, leave no trace. Always:
- Dispose of your trash properly
- Pick up after your dog using waste bags
- Bring a small garbage bag if bins aren’t available
Keeping the trail clean protects wildlife and preserves the trail for everyone.
And if your pup loves getting muddy, rolling in who-knows-what, or just smells a little “too outdoorsy” after the hike? Toss Pet Releaf’s Travel Size CBD-Infused Shampoos in your backpack. They’re perfectly portable and gentle on sensitive skin—great for a quick clean-up at the trailhead, in the car, or once you get home.
4. Bring Fresh Water and a Travel Bowl
Hydration is key—for both you and your dog. Always pack extra water and a portable travel bowl. Look for squeeze-style bottles that fill a small bowl attached, making it easy for your pup to drink during breaks.
Avoid letting your dog drink from streams or puddles, as they may contain harmful bacteria or parasites.
5. Bring a Dog First Aid Kit
You never know when an accident might happen on the trail. A dog-specific first aid kit can help you respond to minor injuries quickly.
Basic items to pack:
- Gauze pads
- Adhesive tape
- Tweezers
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Ice pack
For a full list of essentials, check out our guide to building your own Dog First Aid Kit.
6. Support Your Dog’s Mobility
Long hikes can be tough on joints—especially for pups and senior dogs. To help maintain joint comfort and flexibility after strenuous activity, administer Hip & Joint Releaf CBD Oil before and after hitting the trail.
For ongoing support, try Hip & Joint Releaf Edibites. These CBD-infused chews feature glucosamine, chondroitin, and noni, which help support a healthy inflammatory response and keep your dog active and happy after experiencing tough exercise.
Looking for more ways you can spend time with your dog?
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