Hiking With Your Dog: A Checklist for Safe Day Hikes
A good day hike is one of the best things you can do with a fit dog. Here is how to check your dog is ready, what to pack, and the trail rules that keep dogs, livestock and wildlife safe.
In short
A good day hike is one of the best things you can do with a fit dog. Here is how to check your dog is ready, what to pack, and the trail rules that keep dogs, livestock and wildlife safe.
A day in the hills is one of the best experiences you can share with an active dog. It also takes your dog far from a vet, onto unfamiliar ground and past livestock and wildlife. A little planning makes the day both safer and more enjoyable.
Is Your Dog Ready?
- Age: puppies should not do long hikes while their joints are still developing. Ask your vet when your dog can safely build up distance.
- Fitness: build up gradually with longer local walks first.
- Health: older dogs and dogs with joint, heart or breathing conditions need shorter, easier routes. Check with your vet.
- Breed: flat-faced breeds overheat easily and need extra care in warm weather.
- Recall: if recall is not reliable, plan to keep your dog on a lead or long line.
What to Pack
- Plenty of water for your dog and a collapsible bowl
- Food or snacks for longer hikes
- Lead, harness and a long line
- Waste bags — and carry them out
- A basic pet first aid kit: bandage, wound dressing, tick remover, saline
- A towel
- A light-up collar or reflective gear if you might finish late
- Your vet's number and the nearest emergency vet to your route
- A dog coat for thin-coated breeds in cold weather
Pet Emergency Card
On the trail, phone signal and battery are not guaranteed. The printable Pet Emergency Card keeps vet contacts, medications, allergies and microchip details in your pocket — on paper, when you need them.
Get the Pet Emergency Card →Trail Rules
- Livestock: keep your dog on a lead near sheep, cattle and horses. Cattle can be dangerous to dogs and people, especially with calves. If cattle approach aggressively, let go of the lead and move away safely.
- Wildlife: keep dogs on a lead during nesting season and in protected areas.
- Local rules: some trails, parks and reserves require dogs on leads or do not allow dogs. Check before you go.
- Other walkers: call your dog in and keep them close when passing people, other dogs and horses.
Water and Heat
Offer water regularly rather than waiting until your dog seems thirsty. Avoid hiking in the heat of the day. Watch for heavy panting, slowing down and lying down in shade — signs to stop and rest. Do not let your dog drink from stagnant water or water with visible scum.
Paws
Rocky ground, hot surfaces and long distances can wear paw pads. Check paws at rest stops and at the end of the hike.
After the Hike
- Check for ticks, grass seeds, cuts and sore pads
- Offer water and a meal once your dog has cooled down
- Expect your dog to be stiff and tired the next day — plan a gentle walk
If Something Goes Wrong
For injuries, keep your dog calm and still, cover wounds, and head for the nearest vet. Even gentle dogs may bite when hurt, so be careful when handling an injured dog.
Two ways to plan ahead
Want emergency contacts and a lost pet sheet ready? Choose the Pet Emergency and Care Info Kit. Want to track distance, walks and recovery? Choose the Daily Dog Care Tracker.
Get the Pet Emergency and Care Info Kit →Frequently Asked Questions
How far can my dog hike?
It depends on age, breed, fitness and terrain. Build up gradually and ask your vet if you are unsure.
Can puppies go hiking?
Short, gentle walks on varied ground are fine. Long hikes and steep climbs are best left until your vet says your dog is physically mature.
Should my dog wear boots?
Some dogs benefit on very rough or icy ground. Introduce them gradually at home first.
Printable and fillable PDF templates for pet owners — feeding schedules, health records, training trackers and more.