Top tips on hiking with your dog

We at The Natural Adventure are like a dog with a bone when it comes to making hiking holidays work for adventurers who love their canine companions. Which is why we have a growing number of dog-friendly holidays, whether you want to adventure in Andorra with your adored one, bring Rover on the Rheinsteig or explore Via Francigena with your favourite companion. We also understand that there are many things to take into consideration when you’re considering a paw-liday. I’m one of several devoted dog lovers on our team of adventure specialists, and am delighted to have put together a list of tips on hiking with your dog. That way you can holiday in the knowledge that your dog is safe, prepared and also got just the right level of pampering along the way. 

Start planning early 

If you’re new to hiking with your dog, be sure to start planning well in advance, especially if you’re travelling from the UK or another non-EU country. This is because there are different vaccines, treatments such as tapeworm and of course paperwork that you need to sort at least a month before you hit the hills. As well as microchipping, if you haven’t done that already. If you’re travelling from the UK, there’s plenty more information here and please note that there are movements afoot to reintroduce pet passports for those travelling from the UK to the EU, so watch this space. 

Once you’re in the EU, travelling between different countries is very easy, so you may want to consider combining a couple of holidays together, to make the most of it. When you’re travelling to a non-EU country, it can get more complicated than when you’re within the EU or the UK, but it’s still fairly straightforward. If you’re bringing your dog into the UK to enjoy one of our dog-friendly Lake District and Hadrian’s Wall walking holidays, see the British Government website. You also need to be aware of any specific requirements about the breed of your dog when travelling with it, as rules change per country. 

Keep on track

I recommend having some sort of tracker on your dog. We use Tractive which has both a European and worldwide plan and it gives us so much peace of mind. We also use Apple AirTags as a backup. Another handy tip is to put your mobile number’s country call code on your dog’s tag (eg +44 for the UK). 

Muzzle up before you nuzzle up

It’s important to practise muzzle usage and also introduce travel crate training with your dog. In many European countries, it’s mandatory for dogs over 10kg to wear a muzzle on public transport and for dogs under 10kg to be carried in a contained travel crate. While not all holidays require the use of public transport and not all public transport have strict rules, it’s always better to prepare your dog in advance. 

Lead the way

It’s advisable to pack a long line, extendable lead. In some regions, especially national or natural parks, it is a requirement to keep your dog on a lead at all times. Having a longer lead gives your dog the ability to roam a bit more while still following local regulations. I recommend attaching the dog lead to your backpack with a carabiner, so that you have quick access to it. Always walk responsibly, of course, and respect hikers who don’t have dogs, ensuring that your long lead doesn’t create a trip risk.
 

Remember that when hiking with your dog, there are often a lot of fascinating new scents along trails that they may have never experienced before in their home country. This can make their behaviour a little erratic so, if in doubt, keeping them on the lead to begin with is always the best option. 

Training time

As well as your own training, dogs need training too. While they may seem naturally athletic, it’s really important to work up to longer hikes with them. For example, they need to gradually develop a harder paw pad so that they can cope with tougher terrain. Especially if you are going on one of our more challenging dog-friendly holidays, such as the High Passes of Valais or the Via Alpina. You also need to practise carrying your dog, and make sure that they are used to this too, as there may be tricky terrain that they can’t manage. My partner and I have trained ours to be carried across our shoulders, leaning onto our packs. 

Home from home

If your dog has not travelled with you before, they may be feeling out of their comfort zone, just as all travel newbies too. Consider bringing a couple of comforting objects that smell like home, such as a small blanket or toy, so that they can relax a little easier in new environments such as hotel rooms.

Food and water tips

Remember that you may not be able to get a dog’s usual dog food on your travels, however popular brands such as Hill’s, Royal Canin and Purina are widely available. Also, customs usually prevent you from bringing dog food across borders, so check that your required food is available in your chosen destination. Be sure to also carry a portable water bowl or bottle everywhere. Such as this one which has a fold-out bowl attached to a water bottle and is perfect for hikes. 

Don’t leave a mess

It goes without saying really, but you should always clear up your dog’s waste, and make sure you have poo bags and spares. It is worth noting that a lot of national or natural parks don’t have easy access to bins, so be prepared to carry it with you for a while. I often use a designated dry bag attached to the back of my rucksack with carabiners. You can even put a few sprigs of pine needles in there to mask the smell.

Climate awareness

Your dog may need to acclimatise to different conditions than those they’re used to at home, so it’s worth choosing your hiking holiday accordingly. Especially if you’re new to hiking with your dog. Very warm weather may be dangerous to dogs that are used to colder climates. If you’re concerned about a particularly hot day, you can always skip a day of walking on your itinerary. Or if the heat catches you out, seek shade or a stream, give your dog (and you!) plenty of water and, if you have one, use an instant ice pack. I also highly recommend this cooling jacket for those really hot hikes, or hot nights. 

First aid for your fur baby

When packing your own first aid kit, include items for your dog too. You can get dog kits that include vet wrap, tick keys and antiseptic powder. You should also carry dog boots or bandages in case of a cut or graze on their paw pad. In addition, you can use dog-friendly sunscreen in very hot destinations, or fleeces and waterproof shells if it’s going to be extremely cold or wet. 

You also need to learn about other health and safety issues when hiking with your dog. For example, southern European countries have seasonal sand flies (which can cause leishmaniasis in dogs) and processionary caterpillars which are also harmful to dogs. Always seek advice from your vet before travelling to ensure you have the correct parasite and other treatments. I also find it very reassuring to visit a local vet upon arrival. It’s good to know where the local vet is anyway, in case of emergencies. 

Getting to grips with different dog cultures

Personally, I find that many continental European countries are a lot more relaxed and dog-friendly than the UK, and it is fairly standard to be allowed inside bars, restaurants and cafes with your dogs. In places where this isn’t allowed, there’s usually an outside option where dogs are permitted. The UK hasn’t historically been as dog-friendly, but this is definitely changing. In short, there’s no hard and fast rule, so always ask before you enter an establishment, and learn the phrase ‘are dogs allowed?’ for your travels.

Be mindful of stray dogs

Unfortunately, many countries have a problem with stray dogs and, while a lot of the time these dogs are friendly and will be of no concern to you or your dog, it’s always best to be mindful and vigilant. 

Homecoming routines

Don’t forget your return treatment. If travelling from the UK or Norway, for example, it’s a requirement to have a worming tablet administered by a vet no less than 24 hours and no more than five days before returning to the country. This must be administered by a vet and signed into your dog’s pet passport or animal health certificate. This is usually very quick, easy and inexpensive. 

If these top tips have got your dog’s tail wagging and your feet itching, please don’t hesitate to talk with our adventure specialists about where to go hiking with your dog. In the meantime, you may also enjoy our blog on Dog-friendly trips, as well as our blogs on train travel, because sometimes this is a more practical option.