1. Dog Backpack Hiking Gear
Why should a hiker have to carry all of their gear? This Outward Hound Backpack by DayPak has designs for a medium or large-sized dog and features packs on either side of the harness.
Most dog breeds love to wear packs and carry things, especially working breeds and this backpack doubles as a no-pull harness for keeping the dog close and safe.
The pouches are large enough to stash keys, ID cards, wallets, and other small essentials. Some designs of DayPak’s hiking bags are waterproof, as well.
2. Adventure Dog Carrier Backpack
Small breeds can be just as adventurous as larger breeds, but a small dog is less likely to be able to make a long hike without getting tired.
This Sport Sack Dog Carrier Backpack is designed for small to medium-sized dogs and allows the hiker to carry their canine companion on their backs.
This backpack is veterinarian-approved, so it is safe for the dog, and with this, the hiker can still enjoy having their companion without having to worry about them becoming too tired to walk back on their own.
3. Hands-free Leash
Carrying a leash for the duration of a hike can be a pain, but a hands-free hiking leash solves that problem.
This leash by Chunky Paw is designed for training a dog to walk alongside its trainer. It works by providing a belt that the hiker wears around their waist.
The belt is designed with multiple ways to position the dog, whether in front or beside the hiker.
Two handles are easy to grab should the hiker need additional control over the dog, and the leash has reflective fabric sewn into it to increase visibility. Still, they can enjoy their hike most of the time without worrying about carrying the leash.
4. Collapsible Food & Water Bowls
Staying hydrated is essential while out on the trail, and that includes dogs, too.
Letting your dog drink from a river or pond is not always safe. It’s also difficult to train a dog to drink out of a water bottle, and it’s hard to judge if they’ve had enough to drink this way.
A lightweight, collapsible dog bowl is the perfect solution. The bowl folds up small and is attached to a carabiner to be conveniently clipped to a belt loop or pack without worrying about taking up too much space.
5. Canine Cold Weather Jacket
For a hiker that prefers cold weather, a ThinkPet jacket is a good choice. Even though they have fur coats, dogs can also feel the cold.
Just strap on a cotton, reflective dog jacket to avoid making your dog chilly during their hike.
This design is lightweight, but ThinkPet offers designs that can accommodate a large range of temperatures. So even a hiker who prefers snowy peaks can ensure that their canine companion is also staying warm.
6. GPS Pet Tracker & Activity Monitor
Many hikers have one concern: their dog might get loose while on the trail. A dog that runs off in the middle of a hiking trip is potentially in danger from wildlife and unsure terrain.
The Whistle GPS Pet Tracker hooks a dog’s collar and syncs with the hiker’s smartphone to provide accurate location information.
Even if a dog should slip the leash or run off into the woods, the GPS tracker makes it easy to ensure that the dog gets back safely.
7. Pet First Aid Kit
Any hiker should carry basic first aid for themselves, but some might not realize that their pets have different first aid needs.
This pet first aid kit contains bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, saline, and more.
It also includes a first aid guide with instructions on treating common injuries that an active dog might suffer until a veterinarian can be reached for professional treatment.
A responsible hiker can relax knowing that they are prepared in the event of an injury.
8. Canine Hiking Boots
While a usual dirt trail may not risk a dog’s paws, hiking over rocky terrain or in potentially icy conditions might be riskier.
QUMY’s Waterproof Velcro Dog Boots are slip-proof and have a resilient sole to help a dog maintain their footing and protect them from sharp or uneven terrain.
Popular among hikers in snowy weather, they are also useful for walking through rivers or on private trails that might not be appropriately maintained.
9. Stainless Steel Food and Water Container
A single water bowl won’t cut for longer hikes or overnight trips.
This stainless steel portable food and water set by You Think holds a set of food and water bowls and space to store food. The container is not so large as cumbersome and is damage and rust-resistant.
10. No Pull Hiking Harness
This Embark Adventure harness has a simple design for a hiker that doesn’t need anything fancy.
This no-pull hiking harness is perfect for medium or large-sized dogs, and the reflective paneling is an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
Dogs love adventure as much as humans do, and these gifts make the hike enjoyable for everyone.
Any dog lover will appreciate the gift, and their canine companion will be excited to get out in nature, well-equipped for the adventure.
Essentials For Hiking With Your Dog
Yes, there is a backpack for dogs on the market. They are made to go over a dog so they can carry products depending on the dog’s size. Also, don’t forget to bring sweaters and jackets for the dog if you are hiking in the wintertime.
Cold weather vs. summertime
Bringing a layer of warmth helps keep the dog insulated in cold weather. However, get a cooling coat for your dog in the summertime to keep them fresh on hot days, and if possible, hike in a shady area. Remember, dogs can have heat strokes, too, so taking these precautions will help avoid any unnecessary heat-related incidents.
Leash
Navigation gear for dogs would include a leash on the safe side because you do not know how the dog may act when in a different location. Although they may be good with people, they may use act up if they are in an unfamiliar environment. Also, many parks require a leash.
Other equipment
Always side on the cautious side by bringing your dog’s ID and a light for the nighttime. These two things will come in handy if your dog wanders off.
Another item may help Bear Bells so you can hear your dog. Make sure you bring something to play with; it helps relieve the stress of being in a new environment.
Backpacking Food for Dogs
Your dog needs plenty of nutrition while being out hiking, just like humans, so make sure they have plenty of food to provide him with extra nutrition.
Food
Dogs need about 25% more calories when taking on an adventure like hiking, which means you need to take 25% more food or substitute their standard feed with a higher-calorie food.
For instance, taking dry food can add too much weight, but you can add to their regular dry food with part a dry puppy food because it increases calorie intake without adding the extra weight; food puppy foods are higher in calories.
If you give your dog their backpack, they can carry their food if it is not too heavy. Another option is freeze-dried food; typically, it is more expensive than other dog foods, but it will not weigh as much if weight is a problem.
A sign that your dog needs something to eat while on the trail is if your dog is not staying close to you and wandering off instead, that means they are hungry. Another tip is if you’re feeling tired and hungry and thirsty, your dog probably is too.
Hydration
Like humans, dogs need their water, too, not only to ensure they have enough water but also to drink clean water. Many animals drink any water; many of those waters may be contaminated.
Hydration is vital for any living thing; the dogs need more water on a hike; on average, a 20 pounds or less weighing dog drinks around 1.5 ounces of water a day.
To look for signs of dehydration, watch your dog’s nose if it is dry, which means they are suffering from dehydration.
Backpacking With a Small Dog
Large dogs can be helpful to take hiking. For instance, they can carry backpacks, but there are several benefits to taking a small dog on a hike.
- Avoid a water dish instead of using your hand because they only drink a little at a time.
- Smaller paws are sometimes beneficial because large paws can mess up a path if the dog wanders off.
- Small dogs do not like water paths and are easier to carry across, unlike larger dogs that do not like the water.
- Also, in some cases of an emergency carrying the dog is an option. Smaller dogs tend to get tired easier, so carrying is an option.
- Small dogs do not eat as much, so you don’t have to pack as much food.
- They can keep you warm at night because they are small enough to get into the sleeping bag.
If hiking in a colder climate, don’t forget to bring a coat, jacket, or sweater; smaller dogs do not carry much weight, so it provides an extra layer of protection.
Since smaller dogs think they are just like big dogs, they try to push themselves harder physically, making them weak, tired, and dehydrated.
Backpacking Tent for Dogs
Apply consideration when purchasing a tent for a trip with a dog. Weight should be considered because lighter tents may not last as long, so it may be worth carrying a little extra for better quality.
Space is necessary when bringing a dog to take in, and count the dog size when making a purchase. Make sure it has enough doors if you prefer doors. Ensure the tent has plenty of ventilation in a hot atmosphere.
How to Train a Dog to Hike
When training your dog to hike, you must teach him to behave appropriately around strangers by ensuring they understand your commands verbally or with the hand. This will let you know if they will listen when on the trail and that the dog knows how to control his behavior.
Training your dog is a great option either by an expert, online or through books.
The reason for training will help your dog to understand to listen to your commands and gestures.
Teaching your dog needs to be consistent in your training. If you slack off, dogs will pick up on that and will lead to a message of confusion.
Dogs will have to go to the bathroom on a trail, so if you can train him on a leach when you command, it will make it easier to start the training and why you are at home taking him out to relieve their self for every time the dog listens to commands reward him in some way.
Also, bring tools to help clean up your dog to be respectful.
Do Dogs Need Boots for Hiking?
While not all dogs need them, boots for your dog can come in handy to protect against dryness in the paws due to irritation from chemicals covering grounds in specific areas such as snowy places.
They can also protect their paws when running and walking on rough and hot surfaces. The boots also protect against skin conditions and injury. The boot can help heal issues on the paw, such as cuts, redness, blisters, swelling, and burns.
Although most dogs are not in need, they may be helpful to take on a hiking trip. Plus, in an environment where injuries happen regularly, you always want a first aid kit on hand with products that will benefit the dog also.
Conclusion
Hopefully, these tips for hiking with dogs have provided some help as you plan your trip by providing some essential tips on what brings on such an adventure. The right equipment for your dog will make their trip enjoyable too!