Trail Manners for Dogs

Every time we take our dog hiking, we represent all dog owners on the trail. It’s essential for dogs to have good trail manners. Too many incidents could lead to banning all dogs from hiking trails (the few that spoil it for the many). Here are a few tips to consider before hiking with your dog.

Keep Control of your Dog

A 6-foot leash should be used, even on off-leash trails, unless your dog has perfect recall. Many dog owners believe their dog has excellent recall. Your dog may have perfect behaved at home, but once they’re in an exciting new environment, it’s all bets off on perfect. Be realistic about your dog’s reliability. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve met phenomenal dog handlers and dogs on the trail, and for these folks, this article isn’t for you.

Other advantages of keeping your dog on a leash-

Wildlife and endangered vegetation

Some State Parks have restricted dogs from their parks to protect the ecosystem. One easy solution to prevent other parks and trails from following suit with restricting dogs would be to keep your dog on a leash.

Contaminated water

If your dog is thirsty, they’re likely to drink from standing water. Giardia will make your dog miserable and can be quite dangerous.

Charging to greet other hikers (some people don’t like dogs)

I can’t count how many times a dog has barreled down the trail toward me and hearing the owner say “don’t worry he’s friendly.”  I didn’t hear a “Fido come!” That’s not having control of their dog.

Charging to greet other dogs (they may be reactive).

Same as above. In frustration, I’ve said, “maybe my dog is not.” For a dog on a leash, being charged by one or more off-leash dogs can put them on the defensive. This scenario could escalate into a dangerous situation.

Poisonous snakes

Snakes are fascinating to dogs. I don’t think they know the difference between poisonous and non-poisonous varieties.

Stinky Stuff

Why, why, why do they roll in the nastiest stuff? Some can’t help themselves, and this will make for a smelly ride home and result in getting your car cleaned.

Poison ivy, oak, and sumac

It won’t bother the dog a bit if they get that nasty oil on them, but it will undoubtedly affect you when he rubs it into your clothes and all over your hands as you pat him… “good boy.”

Give right-of-way

I get it… some people are allergic to dogs, some are afraid of dogs, and for reasons I can’t understand, some people don’t like dogs.

You love hiking with your dog and others may not.

People are there to enjoy the tranquility of nature, don’t let your dog take away from their experience.

My dog, Halo sits beside me as other hikers pass. To be funny, I started saying “remember your trail manners,” and it stuck as his cue. Now I say “trail manners,” and he sits off to the side.  When we hike with our furry friends, give other hikers, horses and mountain bikes the right-of-way.

He’s in heaven when someone asks to pat him. Always ask other dog owners if it’s ok to approach their dog. Some dogs don’t like people.

Respect the environment and Leave no trace

Keep your dog on marked trails.

Poop bags! Clean up after your dog. It’s the right thing to do. Get Earth Rated poop bags on Amazon here

ID tags

It may not seem like a should be in the trail manners category, but it is. If you are separated, this will save time for the people who your dog. If you are injured, his tags will also give emergency contact numbers.

Be prepared for hiking

Be prepared for the hike you are on and reduced the chances of an unfortunate incident. Are both you and your dog physically capable for the trail? Bring plenty of water, snacks and a first aid kit.

Check out rules of the trail you’re hiking (i.e., dogs allowed, dogs on leash, etc.) Check the for the difficulty level of the trail. Are there scrambles or ladders that your dog won’t be able to navigate safely?

Keep a 1:1 human to dog ratio

One dog per person. More than one dog to a person could get out of hand quickly, particularly on a heavily trafficked trail. Keep the total number of dogs per group to no more than four. It can be intimidating for other hikers to come across a pack of dogs.

Reactive dogs, overly protective dogs, aggressive dogs, and barkers should stay home. They’re not suitable for hiking trails.

WE have been attacked on the trail by an unattended/aggressive dog. That story is here. It was my go-to trail when I was short on time. We have hiked it again but I could tell Halo was on guard, he forgets nothing.

Try a backpack for your dog, not only he will be able to carry his fair share of the gear.A dog seems less threatening if they’re wearing a backpack.

Check out Backpacks for Dogs here.

Leash pullers are also not suitable for hiking. It’s not safe for you while trying to maintain stable footing..

Enjoy hiking with your dog but be considerate of others so that all can enjoy the splendor that nature has to offer and everyone is safe.

 

Leave a comment below- you don’t have run an agility trial or jump thru hoops to do so 🙂

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dog mom’s gift ideas you may also like this article on Leave No Trace and Halo’s gear