A hiking trip with dogs is an unforgettable experience for both humans and animals. Discovering nature together, enjoying fresh air, and exploring new trails strengthens your bond. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your hiking holiday with your dog is a complete success.
In this article you will find valuable tips for planning, implementation and equipment - including a practical hiking with dog checklist!
Why a hiking trip with dogs?
Hiking is a species-appropriate activity for dogs that challenges both body and mind. And for humans too, exercise in nature promotes health, reduces stress and provides variety in everyday life. For many dog owners, a hiking trip is the best way to take their four-legged friend on holiday and to spend time together in a way that is fun for everyone and also allows you to discover new regions.
The right planning for a hiking trip with a dog
Good preparation is key to a successful hiking holiday with your dog. To ensure you and your dog can enjoy your time outdoors without worry, there are a few important things you should consider in advance. From choosing the right hiking region to dog-friendly accommodation – with the right planning, nothing stands in the way of your adventure together!
1. Select suitable hiking regions for hiking trips with dogs
There are many great hiking regions in Europe, for which you sometimes don't have to travel as far as you might think. In most of these regions, dogs are also welcome guests, as long as the fundamental dog walking netiquette and the local rules for example on leash requirements. These can be very strict depending on the location, and you should definitely research your intended travel region in advance – including its dog-friendliness – so you don't end up disappointed when you get there.
10 places to hike with dogs in Europe
We have collected 10 of the most popular hiking regions for hiking trips with dogs in Europe:
1. Scottish Highlands, Scotland
2. Lake District, England
3. Pyrenees, France/Spain
4. Black Forest, Germany
5. Saxon Switzerland, Germany
6. Berchtesgadener Land, Germany
7. Tyrol, Austria
8. Dolomites, Italy
9. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
10. King's Trail, Sweden
2. Choose suitable hiking routes for dogs
Not every hiking route is dog-friendly. Even in hiking regions that are generally considered dog-friendly, you should pay attention to the following criteria when choosing your route:
- Are dogs allowed on the paths?
- Is there enough shade and water sources?
- Is the route suitable for your dog’s fitness level?
- Are there dangerous passages or passages that cannot be crossed by dogs (e.g. steep
climbing sections/stairs, gratings, narrow paths on cliffs)?
Tip: Find out in advance about applicable leash laws and regional regulations.
3. Find the right accommodation for your hiking trip with your dog
As with any vacation with dogs you should check the accommodation carefully beforehand. Many hotels, guesthouses, and vacation apartments welcome dogs. However, please check before booking:
- Are dogs allowed?
- Is there a garden, an area to run free, or a nearby opportunity for your dog to relieve himself?
- Are there any additional costs and how much are they?
What else you should consider and check when planning your hiking holiday with your dog:
- How many hiking routes are there nearby and are they suitable for you?
- How do you and your dog get from the accommodation to the hiking trails and back?
- What can you do locally with your dog if the weather makes hiking impossible?
Do you want to spend the night with your dog along the route during your hiking holiday? Then you should inform yourself about the circumstances beforehand. Just because some cabins allow dogs doesn't always mean they're welcome in your room – operators do not always have the same idea and the same expectations for the accommodation of dogs.
The right equipment for hiking trips with dogs
To ensure that your hiking holiday with your dog is safe and relaxing, the right equipment is essential. It not only provides comfort and safety, but also makes everyday life easier on the go. Below you can learn which equipment is a must on any hike with a dog.
Dog harness and dog collar for hiking with dog
For hiking, a robust, comfortable dog harness is recommended it needs to fit perfectly and shouldn't chafe. Compared to a collar, the advantage of a harness is that you can can grab and lift your dog better, should you need to support him in case of an obstacle on your hiking route. In addition, a harness is also recommended if the hiking route and circumstances allow the use of a tracking leash.
We often recommend using a safe collar to your dog in addition to the harness. With this you can communicate better with your dog in difficult situations, for more anxious dogs, you can use it to double secure them during scary passages on the hiking route or you can use it to attach additional tags in case your dog gets lost and loses the harness due to a defect.
Dog leash for hiking with dog
When hiking, many people have different preferences and priorities when it comes to their dog's leash. One thing always applies: The leash should be sturdy and have a good grip. Due to their flexibility, adjustable leashes are ideal for many, while others, where it is permitted and possible, like to use tracking leashes.
Our recommendation: Rubberized nylon or our BioThane® Footballgrip tracking leashes help you keep everything under control.
Dog gear for breaks while hiking with your dog
Frequent breaks are essential, especially on long or particularly challenging hikes or during high summer temperatures. To ensure you and your dog get the most out of your break, a dog water bottle or a foldable dog bowl for fresh water is a must.
To help your dog relax among other hikers, a light dog mat is also a good idea. You can train with this at home, so your dog knows exactly what it means.
Just as with a walk at home, the following also applies during a hiking trip with your dog: Clean up your dog's droppings! Accordingly, dog poo bags are a must.
Our tip: Use dog poo bags with handles, this way you can simply attach them to your backpack and have your hands free until you pass the next garbage can.
Paw protection and first aid when hiking with dogs
On long tours or on rocky ground, dog paws can be strained. Paw protection cream or special dog shoes protect against injuries. A small first aid kit for dogs should also always be in your backpack. This way you are perfectly prepared – even in an emergency!
Save with Hiking with Dog Bundles
Are you just starting to plan a hike with your dog and are you still looking for the right equipment for your four-legged friend?
Then discover our hiking with dog bundles and save when purchasing!
Safety and well-being on a hike with dogs
The right equipment already helps you to ensure the safety and well-being of your dog, even on more challenging hikes. In addition:
1. Take a break!
Make sure to take regular breaks so your dog can rest and drink. Even if you still feel fit, your dog may be different. Therefore, observe him carefully: Panting, limping or restlessness are warning signs.
2. Pay attention to the weather and temperature!
Avoid hiking in the midday heat. Choose shady routes and adjust the length of your hike to the temperature. In hot weather, there is a risk of overheating – make sure you cool down (perhaps even in a safe mountain lake?!) and drink enough water.
You can find more tips on the subject of heat in our Blog post: Dog & Heat!
Checklist for hiking trips with dogs
Before your hiking holiday with your dog
- Is the hiking region dog-friendly?
- Are there hiking routes that suit your needs, fitness level and experience?
- Are there dog-friendly accommodations on site/along the route? What are they like?
- Does your dog have the vaccinations that may be required abroad?
For your dog's hiking equipment
- Robust dog harness
- Safe dog collar
- Safe and suitable dog leash
- Dog drinking bottle or water bowl
- Snacks for your dog
- Paw protection cream or dog shoes
- Dog poo bags
- First aid kit for dogs
- Dog blanket or light mat for breaks
While hiking with your dog
- Be considerate of other dogs, hikers, wildlife and nature
- Leave no trash and pick up your dog's poop
- Take regular breaks
- Give your dog water regularly
- Pay attention to weather and temperatures and adjust your hikes accordingly if necessary
- Adhere to local leash regulations and other rules
