HIKING WITH A DOG – If you are a mountaineer, your four-legged friend can be your ideal companion for the mountain. Dogs love to be outdoors, and that’s a great way to keep your pets in good shape. Of course, not all breeds are adequate for this type of activity, but if you are the owner of one of the breeds that can follow your pace in nature, there is no reason not to take your pet with you on mountain adventures.
If you have not taken your pet with you so far, we have singled out a few of the most important items that need to be followed in order to prepare your pet for this type of activity.
Vet check-up
First and foremost, talk to your vet and make sure your pet is ready for this type of activity. Certain breeds are not destined for long walks, especially for walks on inaccessible terrains. At the same time, some breeds are less energetic, and the dog must get in shape before going on such a journey. If you are a puppy owner, most veterinarians will advise you to delay this route because most breeds take about a year or more for a dog to develop muscles, an immune system and bones. It is also advisable to consult a veterinarian about which medications you should take with you as a precaution. If the dog has any major health problems, it is recommended that you avoid this type of activity in case his condition worsens.
Of great importance is also:
- that your dog has received all the prescribed vaccines as well as the rabies vaccine
- if your dog is chipped, additionally check that all the data on the chip is updated (if you have changed the phone number, address, etc.)
- that your dog is protected from ticks, fleas and other parasites
- that there are no visible wounds on the body
Preparation before hiking
It is recommended that you gradually prepare your dog for this type of adventure. It is best to start with shorter routes, such as shorter walks of about 30 minutes, adding 5-10 minutes each day. As your walks get longer over time, gradually get your dog used to easier hiking on trails that aren’t overly demanding. Explore your immediate and somewhat distant surroundings together, so when the dog gets acquainted with such activities, you can take him to the mountains.
What to bring?
Be sure to bring plenty of water, both for you and your dog. Do not allow your dog to drink water from streams and ponds, because these waters can contain numerous parasites that can harm your pet. In addition to water, of course, you also need food, as well as water and food bowls, dog treats, faecal bags, wet wipes, first aid, gauze, bandages, scissors, tweezers, insect repellent. Protect your dog from ticks and other parasites before going on a trip! If your dog has shorter hair or a lighter nose, be sure to protect it with sunscreen as it can easily get burns. In addition to the nose, many races have ears that can be extremely sensitive to the sun.
In addition to all this, pay extra attention to – the leash, do not allow your dog to explore out of your sight. Pay attention to potentially poisonous plants, snakes – their bites can be deadly to your pet, other animals can transmit dangerous diseases such as rabies. Take extra care of your dog’s paws, if you notice any injuries or scratches, repair them immediately. During the warmer months, pay attention to water intake, if you notice that your dog is short of breath, if he is confused or disoriented, if he stumbles, stop immediately and take a break.
Breeds that are good partners for hiking
Husky and Malamute, German Shorthaired Pointer, Vizzle, Weimar Bird, Hound and Border Collie and Rhodesian Ridgeback are some of the breeds that are a great choice for nature adventures, if you are still thinking of becoming a dog owner, and you love hiking and outdoor activities.