If a dog can't go any more you have pushed them way too far. Be ready to turn back when one dog is starting to struggle.  If you have taken your dogs for preparation walks you will know when your dog needs to stop. If you are in an area that permits your dogs to be off leash let them run wild. Make sure to have your leash with you, but older dogs that may be blind or deaf should be kept on a leash at all times.


EQUIPMENT:

LEASH — In most places it is required that you keep your dogs on leashes at all times. There are places where you can let your dog run off leash.  Even when visiting a no-leash area still keep your leash with you at all times.  If you encounter people it is a common courtesy to put your dog on the leash. Your dog may be friendly but other people may be afraid of dogs.

COLLAR/WEBBING HARNESS OR SUIT HARNESS — These are different ways to attach the leash to your dog. Depending on the dog as well as the type of hiking you are doing will determine the type you want to use. For walks around town or through the city park a simple collar is going to be sufficient.

For a little more intensive hiking where you may need more control over your dog or in the case of blind dogs a body harness made from webbing that wraps the dog’s body is nice. A body-style harness is great for dogs who have thick necks and can back out of most harnesses. A full-suit harness is for the hardcore dogs who you will be taking on canyoneering adventures or dangerous hikes; it makes it easy to lift the dog over obstacles.



EXTRA WATER — When hiking with a dog in certain environments you should not only have water for yourself but water for your dog.  It may be a long distance between water holes. Take some extra containers of water and if you have to use it you can always refill at the next water hole. It is best to pack COLLAPSIBLE WATER BOWLS to give your dog a drink.

BOOTIES — Some types of terrain can be tough on your dog’s paws. Sandstone, sharp rocks and snow can cause problems for your dog.  Dog booties are a great way to protect your dogs paws from things you wouldn’t want to walk over with bare feet.


PREPARATION:

For younger dogs all the prep you may need is to show them the leash.  For older dogs there are significantly more steps you need to take.

GLUCOSAMINE — With older dogs it helps to give them a glucosamine pill soaked in bacon or hamburger grease. This will help lube the joints and negate some of the arthritis pain your dogs may experience. The sooner you give them the glucosamine and the more regular you are with the treatment the better the dogs will feel and the more significant the effects.

PHYSICAL TRAINING — Don't just throw your dog out on the trail and say have fun. If you are going a long distance or will be on some very rugged terrain make sure to take your dog on regular walks the week before. People get sore if we exercise too much, too fast. Why do we think dogs are any different? The less exercise your dog has been getting the more important this step becomes. This is also a great way to identify your dog’s limitations and be able to cater the trip around their needs.

GEARING UP — If you have a harness or booties for your dog make sure that your dog gets used to wearing them. In the case of dog booties you may want to have a camera handy just for laughs. Most dogs will high step until they get used to them.

SHAVE YOUR DOGS — If you are taking your dog to desert areas you may want to invest in a dog clipper or take a trip to the groomer. Just make sure not to take it all the way to the skin.  Dogs can sunburn.

RATTLESNAKE SHOT — If you plan on taking your dog out a lot you may want to consider getting a rattlesnake anti-venom shot. They are about $35 and if your dog is as curious as mine, then it is probably a safe investment.