Things You'll Need:
- Harness/Collar
- Leash
- Backpack
- Portable Shade
- Bowl for water
- Water
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Step 1
Make sure your dog is fit enough to hike. If he is hugely obese or has an injury, or is too old (or too young), he will not do well, and you are as likely to end up at the vet as you are back at your house. Also, be sure that the place you plan on going allows dogs. It would be a shame to go and then find out your dog is not allowed. For your dogs' sake, make sure he is wearing current i.d. tags and is up to date on his shots and his health care -- just in case. Be sure that you have a collar or harness that fits him properly, that he will not slip out of and will also not choke him. Your leash needs to be comfortable for you and for him -- not too long, not too short. Although in some areas it is okay to allow your dog to hike off the leash, it is not recommended, for many (obvious) reasons.
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Step 2
Pack your backpack with lots of water for both of you. Be sure and include a bowl that your dog can drink from. Having a few high energy snacks for you and a couple of treats for him is a good idea. Also include some sort of portable shelter in case you both need to get out of the sun. Even if it is a large towel you plan on draping over some bushes, make sure you have something that you can make shade with. Always make sure you have a first aid kit of some kind with you, and now you are ready to hike.
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Step 3
Off you go! Be mindful of the temperature for both you and your dog. Long haired dogs can easily overheat, and this can rapidly lead to death or serious illness, so take your time and allow him to get wet if you come across any streams or ponds. Take breaks for water, whether he seems to need it or not. If you have a young dog, he can get overzealous, just like a little kid, and not realize how thirsty he is until he is absolutely about to dry up. So take care of your pet, and also take care of yourself. Then be sure and head back in plenty of time to get back to the camp/car before any deadline or darkness.
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Step 4
Always be prepared for an accident. If your dog cuts his paw on the trail, he will need it wrapped with a bandage in order to make it back safely -- so that first aid kit is important. Also be sure you have a cell phone, and hopefully you have already made sure it has service where you are planning on hiking. If not, carry a whistle to let people know you need help in an emergency.
