Dog Leashes For Hiking

Finding the right leash for your furry friend can be difficult. There are so many different leashes available now. However, not all of them are a great choice for hiking. Fellow dog owners should take into account what type of hiking you will be doing, the size of your dog, the temperament of your dog and the amount of training your dog has had. 

The most important factor to consider when choosing a dog leash for hiking is the size and temperament of your dog. A smaller dog may need a different type of leash than a larger dog. Likewise, a calm dog will need a different type of leash than an energetic dog. The best dog leashes for hiking for you might not be the best dog leashes for hiking for someone else.

Something else you should take into account is the type of hiking you plan on doing with your canine companion. If you plan on sticking to just easy trails without a lot of steep incline/decline than you could use a standard six-foot leash. If you plan on doing some more difficult hikes with some short rock climbs you might want to use a longer leash. This will allow your dog to tackle climbs and incline without having to stop part way or pulling on you. Once you have figured out the needs of your dog, you can then choose a dog leash for hiking that best suits your own personal style.

No matter which type of dog leash you choose for hiking, make sure you bring plenty of water and snacks for both you and your dog, as well as some basic first-aid supplies. And always remember to keep your dog on a leash when hiking.

Best Type of Dog Leash For Hiking

There are a several different types of dog leashes that work best for hiking. A hands free dog leash is great for a trained and well behaved dog. A standard dog leash that is 6 feet long is also a good option, as it is more lightweight and easy to carry with you on your hike. Choosing a 12 to 50 foot training leash can be good if you are tackling rougher terrain while hiking. A short two to four foot length leash is not recommended for hiking. Retractable leashes are also not recommended for hiking. Whatever type of leash you choose, make sure to always keep your dog close by and under control. This will help ensure both your safety and your dog’s safety on the hike.

Whether you’re looking for a leash that allows your dog some freedom while still maintaining control, or you want a leash that is easy to carry with you on your hike, there is sure to be a dog leash that fits the bill. Let’s dive in and go over some options for you.

Best Hands Free Dog Leash For Hiking

A hands-free dog leash is just what it sounds like. Hands-free leashes are a type of leash attaches to a belt, backpack or waistband. It is an excellent choice if you want to be hands free while you hike. It’s a good choice for dog owners with a well behaved dog. This is not suitable for a dog that is hard to control. The strength of this leash makes it suitable for a large dog. 

The Ruffwear Hitch Hiker Dog Leash is my go to for hiking with my pup Theo. This leash is designed for hiking and gives your dog some freedom. It also has a built in storage pocket for your poop bags! 

This leash is adjustable to 12 feet and has a built in storage bag for the leash. The strap adjusts up to 49 inches. This is one of the best hands-free dog leashes because of the adjustability of the leash length. You also do not have to wear the waist belt. You can adjust it to its’ smallest size and hold it in your hand. To adjust the length of the leash it has a built in Crux Clip with HitchLock.  The leash if made of heavy duty kernmantle rope. 

This is one of my top picks because I am able to use it at different lengths. I like things that are multi purpose. I can use it as a shorter leash on busy streets, at half length for our daily walk or extend it all the way out for our outdoor activities. It is like having three different dog leashes in one!

Make sure you take some time and do some training with your dog before you hit the trail with this leash. Using a hands free dog leash for hiking can take some getting used to for both you and your pup.

Standard Dog Leash For Hiking

Your standard dog leash comes in many colors, materials and lengths, which makes them among the best dog leashes for hiking. With so many options it can be hard to pick one. I have tried many dog leashes for hiking and have narrowed down my pick for the standard leash.

If you are looking for the one of the best dog leashes for hiking then check out the Soft Trainer Leash from Ezydog. This six-foot leash comes on two sizes. A 1″ wide leash for larger dogs weighing 26 pounds and more and a 0.5″ wide leash for small dogs of less than 26 pounds. This leash is made using Ezydog soft touch webbing and neoprene handle and is reflective. Additionally, the padding on the leash helps provide good grip, while the reflective material helps keep you both safe and visible at night.

At the handle you will find a d-ring and elastic lock. At the clip end you will find a built in handle. If you need to easily keep your dog at your side this comes in handy.  The best part about this hiking leash is the variety of color options it comes in. 

This is the best dog leash if you are going to be doing easy hikes without a lot of technical incline or decent or if you are looking for a leash for everyday use. I use this leash when hitting up my local land trust trail or a nice level hike. 

Longer Training Leash

If you want a long leash so that you can do some training with your dog while allowing your dog some more freedom then a long training leash is in order. I personally use a 30 foot training leash for this. The more Theo learns, the longer his leash gets. I use the L.L. Bean Check Dog Cord while training Theo on the hiking trails. This allows him room to roam around and figure out how to navigate tough terrain without having to stop. This is especially helpful when we are training on a steep, rocky incline. 

This leash is also great on my local land trust trail so that Theo can practice his recalls. The leash is long enough that it allows Theo to run a bit, which he loves to do. 

The leash is made from nylon and a heavy-duty metal clip. It comes in one color and that is orange. Orange makes it easy to see. 

This leash is for training purposes only and should not be used all the time. This leash is also recommended for dogs who are well behaved and working on training. 

Retractable Leashes

Retractable leashes are not a great option for short or long hikes. There are a multitude of reasons why you should not use one. I will go over a few. 

These leashes can break easily, especially if you have a larger dog. The leash itself can break and/or the reel inside can break. If that happens, the situation can turn dangerous for your dog. If a dog gets loose while hiking he could get wrapped around something, slip and fall, chase another animal and get lost, etc. 

Your dog can get injured by the retractable cord. Because the retractable cord tends to be thin it can cause rope burn to your dog or you. It is also easy to become tangled in it. 

If your dog hasn’t had proper leash training this leash can teach them to pull more. Your dog can learn that pulling on the leash makes it extend and that can lead to constant pulling from your pup. 

It’s All About The Training

When you are getting ready to take your dog for a hike, it is important that you take the time to do some dog training beforehand. This will help ensure that your dog is walking calmly and obediently on the leash, which can make the overall experience much more pleasant for both you, your dog and those you encounter on the hiking trail.

There are a variety of different dog training techniques that you can use to help teach your dog how to walk on a leash, including using treats and praise, redirecting unwanted behaviors, and using gentle pressure from the leash to guide your dog in the right direction. Regardless of the method that you choose, it is important to be consistent and patient in your training. 

So if you are ready to take your dog for a hike but have not yet trained them on how to walk on a leash, be sure to set aside some time to do so before heading out. Also, it is a great idea to start out with short easy hikes. This will help ensure that both you and your dog can enjoy a safe and enjoyable hike in the great outdoors.

Important Things To Remember When Hiking With Your Dog

1. Always keep your dog on a leash when hiking. This will help ensure their safety and prevent them from getting into potentially dangerous situations.

2. Be sure to bring plenty of water and food for your dog. They will need regular breaks during the hike to stay hydrated and energized.

3. Pay attention to your dog’s behavior and signs of fatigue. This can help you be better prepared for rest stops or turns around if necessary.

4. If you have a dog that is prone to overheating, consider bringing cooling products such as a cooling vest, collar or pack, or even some frozen supplies like water bottles or ice cubes.

5. Make sure to pack a dog specific first aid kit for your four legged companion. Not sure what to pack for your dog? Don’t worry, we have you covered! Check out our first aid for dogs here. 

The above are my top picks for best hiking leash. Whether you choose the traditional leash, the longer dog training leash or the hands-free dog leash be sure to find one that is best suited for your dog’s needs and your hiking style. With the right dog leash, you and your dog can enjoy many great adventures outdoors together!

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Hiking with a dog can be an exciting adventure for both you and your pup. Unfortunately, accidents can happen, and your dog may become injured on the trail. As a dog owner, it is essential to understand how to provide immediate care to your pet until you can get them the veterinary care they may need. This is also known as dog first aid. 

This article will provide you with the first aid basics and discuss the most common injuries encountered when hiking with a dog. I will give you a guide to setting up your dog’s first aid kit and tips on avoiding injury. 

The Basics of Dog First Aid

Dog first aid aims to reduce pain and prevent further injury until additional medical care can be provided. This may be as simple as using some saline to rinse off your dog’s wound and applying a temporary bandage. Don’t worry; no one expects you to be a veterinary wizard on the trail. Your goal is to provide some initial care until you can seek additional medical attention.

Common Injuries While Hiking

There are a wide variety of accidents that can occur while hiking. Below is a list of the most common injuries dogs experience on the trail.

• Insect Bites

Bee stings and other insect bites are common in dogs exploring the outdoors. Just like when you get stung by a bee, the initial sting can hurt and cause swelling. The number of bites and the location of the swelling will often determine the severity of the reaction. In some cases, insect bites around the nose or mouth can cause swelling that can interfere with your pet’s breathing. Some dogs can have allergic reactions to insect bites and develop hives.

If you can see a stinger, use a pair of tweezers to remove it. Clean the area and apply a cold water bottle or ice pack if possible. If the reaction is severe, your dog may need attention from a local veterinarian. 

• Strains, Sprains, and Broken Bones

I don’t know about you, but I’m not always the most coordinated on the trails. I’ve taken my fair share of stumbles and falls. Our dogs are at risk of encountering the same injuries while hiking. These tumbles can result in strains, sprains, and in the worst case, the occasional broken bone.

Pay close attention to any signs of limping or discomfort on the trail. Dogs can’t always tell us where it hurts, so reading their body language is essential. If your dog begins to limp, call it a day and give them a few good days of rest. If your pet is still moving slowly after a few days, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to have them assessed. 

When dealing with a suspected broken bone, use what you have to make a splint to support the affected limb. Small tree branches can be helpful to provide support. Stabilizing the limb above and below the suspected break can help reduce pain and further injury while you transport your pet to the closest veterinary hospital. 

• Cuts and Scrapes

Cuts and scrapes to a dog’s paw pads are the most common injuries seen while hiking. Most people hike in sturdy hiking boots to protect their feet from the trails’ rocky and sometimes sharp surfaces. Our dogs are do not always have the same hiking gear, and their paw pads can be very sensitive. 

If your pet encounters a cut while hiking, clean the area and apply a temporary bandage. Canine hiking boots can help protect your pet’s feet on the trail. Cuts and scrapes to other parts of the body may not be as easily avoidable, so make sure you have a dog first aid kit and are prepared. 

Creating a Dog First Aid Kit

You can purchase a first aid kit or make your own. The Adventure Medical Kits Dog Series Me & My Dog First Aid Kit for Dogs is a great option. Putting together a dog first aid kit doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Having a few essentials can be extremely helpful in case of an emergency. Some of the items your dog first aid kit should include are:

• Gauze Roll
• Nonstick Bandages
• Adhesive Tape 
• Latex Gloves
• Tweezers
• Sterile Saline
• Spare leash 
• Muzzle

A more extensive list of supplies developed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center can be found here.

Many of the materials in this list are essential for cleaning and bandaging a wound. In the case of a thorn in a paw or an insect sting, tweezers are especially helpful for removing these foreign objects. 

Keeping your dog on a leash is crucial for your dog’s safety and others on the trail. Accidents happen, and leashes can break, so it’s always a good idea to have an extra one on hand. I personally use this leash most of the time.

For some, a muzzle may seem like an odd thing to have in a first aid kit. While your dog may be the friendliest dog on the planet, pain can make both people and pets react in unexpected ways. If your dog encounters a severe injury on the trail, a muzzle is a crucial tool to keep you safe and allow you to provide the first aid your pet desperately needs.

Assemble your dog’s first aid kit into a small bag so that all of your supplies are easily accessible in one place. Keep your kit with your hiking gear, and make sure you always have it when hitting the trails with your pup. Hopefully, you will never need it, but it’s always good to be prepared.

How to Avoid Injury

Injuries are sometimes unavoidable, but you can take precautions to reduce the risk of the most common hiking injuries. Just like us, dogs need the proper equipment and must work up to the more challenging hikes. When your pup gets tired or is inexperienced, injuries are more likely to occur. 

Start with short beginner hikes and slowly build to more challenging ones as your dog gets more experienced. Doing this will help your dog build up their endurance and learn how to maneuver rocky terrain. Make sure your dog has the essential dog hiking gear for the terrain such as boots to protect their feet.

Summary

While hiking with your dog can be a great bonding experience, it’s essential to recognize that accidents can happen. Just as you should carry a first aid kit for yourself, be prepared to administer first aid to your dog. Understand the most common canine injuries and what you can do to manage them on the trail. With this information as your guide, you’ll be ready to explore the great outdoors with your dog in no time. 

The post Dog First Aid: Keeping Your Dog Safe on the Trails appeared first on The Fat Girl Hiking.

Have you ever considered bringing your dog on a hike with you? Hiking can be an exciting adventure for both your and your furry friend. Many dogs love to hike and enjoy the quality time spent exploring the great outdoors. Before taking your pet hiking, there are some things you need to know to make sure you and your pet are prepared. Safety is critical when you are out on the trail, and you need to make sure you have the necessary hiking gear for your dog. This article will discuss all of the things you need to consider before hiking with a dog. It will provide you with information on preparing, what to bring, and some general safety tips.

Preparing Your Dog For A Hike

Proper preparation will help make your dog’s hiking adventure a safe and enjoyable experience. Some of the steps you will need to take include conditioning your dog, making sure they are in good health, and understanding basic safety principles. So let’s dive into the dog hiking basics.

When To Start Hiking With Your Dog

Before you decided to start taking your dog on hikes, it is critical to consider their age and stage of development. Intense exercise can put excess strain on a young dog’s body while they are still growing. This strain can lead to lifelong orthopedic issues, especially in large breed dogs. The best thing to do is wait until your dog is fully grown before you start taking them hiking. For most dogs, you can begin conditioning them between one and two years of age. Check with your veterinarian to determine what is best for your dog. 

Conditioning

You can’t expect your pup to go from being a couch potato to conquering expert-level trails. To prepare your dog for a big hike, start by taking them out on short easy trails. This will help build their cardiovascular endurance and build the muscle they need for longer, more strenuous hikes. 

When doing these short training hikes, try to incorporate a variety of obstacles and terrain. Just as you have to learn how to navigate steeper inclines and rocky paths, it will take some time for your dog to get accustomed to these obstacles as well. 

Generally, most healthy dogs can easily cover 3-5 miles or approximately 60 minutes of easy hiking. The distance your dog can work up to will depend on their overall health, breed, and the trail’s difficulty. Experienced dogs can cover 20 miles or more in a day. Start slow and gradually increase your miles over time. If your dog is exhausted after your hike, decrease the distance for your next hike. Make sure you give them plenty of rest in between. 

Proper conditioning is also essential to reduce the risk of injury from fatigue. When your pet gets tired, they are more likely to make mistakes that could potentially injure them. Pay attention to your dog’s body language on the trail. If they are falling behind or trying to lay down on the path, offer them some water and give them a chance to rest. 

Your Dogs’ Health

Some medical conditions may prevent your dog from being an ideal hiking candidate. Dogs with hip dysplasia or arthritis may find hiking difficult or painful. Make sure your dog is in good overall health before hitting the trails. If you have concerns about your pet’s health or want to ensure hiking is a safe choice for them, consult with your veterinarian.

In preparing your dog to hike, it is also essential to ensure they have received the proper vaccinations and preventatives. Vaccines such as rabies and leptospirosis are critical for dogs who spend a lot of time in the woods. Ticks and fleas are also an unpleasant reality of the great outdoors. Make sure your pet is on the proper flea and tick medication to reduce their risk of these pests. 

General Safety

Anytime you set out on a hike, safety should always be a top priority. With the proper precautions, hiking with a dog is a safe and enjoyable experience. Check out the trail information ahead of time because not all-terrain is suitable for pets. Some trails do not allow pets for this reason. 

When planning your hike, make sure you are familiar with the area. It is always a good idea to look up the closest pet emergency clinic or veterinarian in case your pet gets injured on the trail. Make sure you carry a dog first aid kit and be prepared for the most common injuries dogs experience while hiking. More information on how you can create a dog first aid kit can be found here.

Ensuring you are prepared and have the correct dog hiking gear will help keep you and your dog safe while hiking. 

Dog Hiking Gear

Just like you gear up before a hike, it is crucial to ensure your furry friend has the proper dog hiking gear. Below are some dog hiking essentials that will help prepare your dog for their first hike.

Dog Leash

A leash is a top priority when it comes to hiking gear for your dog. It is a critical tool to keep your dog and others on the trail safe. Some trails even require that dogs remain on a leash at all times. 

Having your pet on a leash will help you keep them in your sight and out of trouble. There are many new and exciting things for your pup to explore on the trail, but some can be dangerous. A leash prevents your dog from chasing after wildlife or exploring unsafe areas. Having control of your pet also prevents them from running into other hikers on the trail, potentially knocking them over or startling them.

Ideal leashes should be six feet in length or less. Retractable leashes are not recommended. Accidents happen, and leashes occasionally break while hiking. An extra leash is always good to have, just in case. 

Dog Hiking Harness And Collar

Collars are essential for identifying your pet if they become separated from you. It is always a good idea to include your phone number on your pet’s ID tags to help someone get in touch with you if your pup becomes lost.

Many dogs tend to pull when on the leash, and leashes connecting to the collar are not ideal for long hikes. Dog hiking harnesses allow for better control of your dog and put less strain on their neck. Some dog backpacks have built-in harnesses and attachment points for the leash. Find what works for your dog, and get them comfortable with their gear before your adventure.

Dog Backpacks

Backpacks for your dog are not necessary, but they can be helpful to carry all your dog’s hiking essentials. Many dog backpacks have built-in harnesses and pockets for storage. There are a wide variety of packs available. Some backpacks have improved ventilation to keep your pet cool during the summer months, while others are designed with insulated material to add extra warmth in colder climates. 

Find a backpack that meets your dog’s hiking needs. The most critical consideration in a pack should be how it fits your dog. Adjustable straps help ensure the backpack stays snug and secure. Make sure the pack doesn’t interfere with your dog’s range of motion or gait. 

Once you’ve picked the best model for your pup, be cautious in how you pack it. When using the storage pockets, make sure the weight of the gear is evenly distributed. Even slight differences in the weight of the pockets can throw your pet off balance.

How much weight your dog can carry in their backpack will depend on their size. As a general rule, dogs should not carry more than 25% of their body weight. Dogs that are under the age of two are still growing, and their packs should be kept lighter to avoid unnecessary strain. 

It may take a little bit of time for your dog to get used to wearing a backpack. Start by putting it on them when you go out for short daily walks. As they get comfortable wearing the empty backpack, start to pack small items for them to carry. Gradually increase how much you allow them to carry as they build up their endurance. 

The Dreaded Poop Bag

Cleaning up after your pet is a necessary part of being a responsible pet owner. Just as you would on a causal neighborhood walk, it is essential to clean up after your dog on the trail. Dog poop can spread disease and create an unpleasant experience for other hikers. The last thing you want on your relaxing hike is to step in a giant pile of dog poop. 

Make sure you have poop bags to help keep our trails clean and pristine. Once you have picked up the poop, make sure you dispose of it properly. However, I understand that no one wants to hold onto a smelly poop bag for miles. 

If your dog is wearing a backpack, you may consider using one of the pockets to store the filled poop bags. Don’t forget to dispose of them once you get home. Forgotten poop bags are a very unpleasant surprise on your next adventure. 

For dogs that don’t wear a backpack, simple tricks like tying the bags to the end of the leash are helpful. This will keep your hands free and prevent you from having to place the smelly bags in your own pack. 

Snacks

I don’t know about you, but I always have extra snacks in my pack when I hit the trail. Hiking is a serious exercise, and it is vital to fuel your body. This same principle applies to your dog. Make sure your dog eats a good meal before the hike and carry some tasty snacks for them to enjoy throughout the day.

Water

Hydration must always be a priority for both you and your pet. It is crucial to provide your dog water throughout the hike to prevent them from getting dehydrated or overheating. Offer your dog water breaks every hour. If it is particularly hot, more water breaks may be necessary.

When packing water for the hike, make sure you account for your dog’s water needs as well. Dogs need a clean water source on the trail. Allowing your dog to drink from standing pools of water or streams is not advised. Parasites and bacteria can contaminate these water sources and can make your dog sick. Collapsible water bowls are available for easy packing. 

Hiking Boots For Your Dog

Hiking boots can help keep your pet’s paw pads safe while crossing treacherous terrain. Paw pads are very sensitive, and cuts to paw pads are a common injury experienced while hiking. When hiking long miles, paw pads can often become worn down or torn. Hiking boots will help protect your pet’s feet. 

You will need to get your pet use to their new boots before setting out on your hike. Make sure the boots fit properly to avoid rubs or blisters. Try letting your dog wear their shoes around the house or on short walks in the neighborhood. Even with training, some dogs do not like the feeling of boots on their feet.

There are plenty of dogs that don’t need boots when hiking. Dogs can build up calluses and tougher paw pads if they spend a lot of time outside on rough surfaces. Hiking boots may not be necessary for easy hikes on trails with good footing. If your route is rockier, hiking boots are worth considering. 

Be aware that hiking boots can sometimes fall off or get lost. It’s always a good idea to have an extra boot just in case. Even if your dog doesn’t usually hike with a boot, it may be a good idea to keep a pair in your hiking bag. If your dog experiences a cut or other trauma to their paw on the trail, a boot can provide some extra protection and pain relief on your hike back. 

Reflective Gear

Whether or not your dog needs reflective gear depends on the type of hiking you are doing and the hiking conditions. For day hikers, the reflective gear may not be critical. However, it never hurts to be prepared. Many backpacks or harnesses have reflective strips on them. 

When you are hiking in a particularly foggy area or in the dark, reflective gear can be helpful to keep an eye on your dog in the low visibility. If your dog’s hiking gear does not have reflective material, attaching a glow stick to their collar can do the trick. 

Best Dog Breeds For Hiking

There are many things to consider when determining if your dog is suited for hiking. Certain breeds have been bred to endure the physical demands and conditions of the great outdoors. Active breeds typically have more endurance and drive to accompany you on long and strenuous hikes. Active breeds require a fair amount of exercise with their high energy levels, and hiking can be an excellent outlet for them. 

The breeds most commonly associated with good hiking and outdoor dogs include the Australian Shepard, Bernese Mountain Dog, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Vizsla, and the German Shorthair Pointer. Personally, I hike with my friend’s two Vizsla’s. They are trained hunting dogs and have experience with the outdoors. These dogs are great companions on the trail, and hiking is a great way for them to get some exercise outside of hunting season. 

My Hiking Companion

However, not all great hiking companions come from one of these breeds. My former hiking companion was a mutt named Scrappy. If I had to guess, Scrappy was a mix of Labrador, Border Collie, and Greyhound. But I suppose with mutts, you never really know. The point is that Scrappy was a great hiking buddy. We had some incredible adventures, and he loved to be out on the trail. 

Although having a dog specifically bred for outdoor activity can be helpful, the breed isn’t the only thing that matters. Every year, millions of dogs end up in shelters and have the potential to become excellent hiking partners. Many dogs love the outdoors and enjoy exploring new sites. A dog’s breed may make them more physically capable, but the dog’s desire and drive to hike is essential. Adoption is a fantastic thing, and your dog doesn’t have to be a purebred to be a great hiker.

When considering various breeds or mixes, it is critical to remember that some dogs have physical limitations. Short-nosed dogs, also known as brachycephalic, have more challenges when it comes to hiking. These dogs often have difficulty breathing and respiratory issues because of their short nasal passages. Their little noses may not rule them out as hiking dogs entirely, but you should take more precautions to ensure their health and safety. 

In Closing

Hiking with a dog is a great experience, but there are some things you should consider before conquering a big hike. Just as you wouldn’t go out and run a marathon without the proper training or gear, it’s essential to prepare your pet for big adventures. Make sure you have the necessary dog hiking gear and have taken the necessary precautions to prepare your dog for your hike. Hopefully, this article will help you take the steps you need to explore the great outdoors with your furry friend. 

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