How to Start Hiking With Your Dog
How to Start Hiking With Your Dog
Do you need a way to start the weekend right by you and your dog? Hiking is a wonderful way to get out in the fresh air and let everyone stretch their legs. Your dog will love the new sights and smells of the trail, and you will have your own exercise out of the way in no time. Fitness is important for your dog's health and who knows, you might make new dog friends!
Short Hikes First
Your first hike should be a short outing on easy terrain. Even if you and your dog are quite fit, there will be so many new stimuli to look at and smell not to mention the other dogs. If your local hiking trails are all quite long then you should choose a trailhead that will allow you to go a ways on flat or easily-sloped ground, turning around twenty minutes later for a good beginner nature walk. If the park is crowded you might just have to work on your dog's manners for the day.
A very do-able first outing is important so that neither you or your pup are in pain afterwards. Ideally you will be ready to go for your evening walk that night and then ready for your regular routine the next day. If you push yourself and your dog too far (or don't carry a watch and turn around at your predetermined time) you may exhaust yourself, your dog, and your desire to ever go hiking again! Instead build up gradually so that you create an easy and fun routine that gets you and the pooch out of the house for an hour or two and into the woods.
Bring Water and a Snack
You've climbed up the mountain to the lookout point and had a few minutes rest now reach for your waterbottle and a bit of food. Always bring a bottle of water for each person (and dog) in your group and if you haven't been very thirsty when you reach a halfway/stopping point, make the effort to drink anyway. Trail bars, fruit, and nuts are all good snacks that are easy to carry and can be eaten with just your hands. Avoid overprocessed or empty-calorie foods like chips and candy easy to pack, yes, but they won't give you the boost you need to keep walking. You can substitute a sports drink for water if you like, but it is advised to also bring a bottle of water along in case the sugar and salt content of the sports drink don't quench you enough. Definitely no soda or caffinated beverages! Eat a nutrient-dense snack and drink water on your breaks to help to keep you at your peak energy level. The same for your dog.
Whether you choose a state park trail or just a neighborhood trail, by taking your dog out hiking you've made a commitment to fitness for the both of you. These special times with your dog go above and beyond the routine walk around the block. Pet Stain & Odor Removal Picking The Right Pet Hand Drawn Portraits for Your Pet The True Cost of Owning a Dog The Incredible Importance of Dog's Behavior Lessons Pet Insurance FAQ: Your Dog's Most Common Ailments The Significance of Dog's Obedience Classes Dog Crate Positive Aspects For You To Get Famous Terrier Breed of Dog Understanding Your Dog's Life Stages NZD|USD Looks Appetizing How to Choose Your Cat Insurance Policy What You Need to Know About Cat Insurance