Backpacking with your Dog
Any size or shape of dog can enjoy backpacking but there are a few issues to consider before engaging in this new activity:
- Choosing the right pack for your dog
- Conditioning yourself and your dog for exercise
Choosing the Right Pack for Your Dog
Dogs can carry a good deal of weight on their backs; however, it is important to place the weight that your dog will carry over the shoulder blade (withers) area, and not in the middle of his back. The shoulders are built to carry the weight — the spine is not. This is especially important in long-backed breeds. The pack should be specifically designed for him, made from light-weight, water-proof material, with adjustable nylon web straps and quick-release buckles for ease of getting on and off.
If the dog's pack is loaded, and he is doing any kind of climbing, uphill walking or pulling, be sure to have a non-restrictive harness on the pack. This means that the dog's shoulder movement is not impeded by any kind of horizontal strap across the front. A non-restrictive pack has a harness hook-up that goes over the dog's head like a sledding harness, comes to a "V" at the hyoid bone, and continues down between the dog's front legs. This allows the pulling pressure to go on the middle of the dogs chest, and not on the forelegs, which would restrict his movement.
Padding on the pack depends on the dog's coat, and the weight and amount of pulling that he will do. Short-coated breeds benefit more from a padded harness if there is a lot of rubbing of the pack.
The pack should also be a high-visibility colour — orange, yellow or red — especially when trekking through the forests. It not only helps you spot your dog from a distance, but allows others to see him as well.
Conditioning Yourself and Your Dog
Like any other physical activity, it is important to prepare yourself and your dog for the new strain on the muscles which may not have been used regularly. Start out slowly, walking short distances the first day. Slowly build on the distance you will cover on your hikes. Remember to stretch your muscles, and your dog's too, before exercising. When the dog starts to carry his pack, start empty and gradually increase the weight on each trip.
Hiking with your Dog
Reference Books
Click on any of the linked books for further details and to purchase online directly from Dogwise.com and/or Amazon.ca. Books are listed in alphabetical order by the author's name.
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Simple Guide to Getting Active with your Dog
by Margaret Bonham
Includes choosing an activity; conditioning; advanced training; having fun with your dog; organized dog sports. Resource section.
— Available from Dogwise.com.
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The Canine Hiker's Bible
by Doug Gelbert
Detailed descriptions of more than 225 parks and trails across the US and Canada; rules for dogs in state and provincial parks, and on beaches, plus information on outfitting and much more - all written with your best friend in mind.
— Available from Dogwise.com.
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First Aid for the Active Dog
by Sid Gustafson
Learn invaluable life-saving skills for the types of emergencies your dog could encounter on a hiking or hunting expedition, or when involved in any outdoor activity.
— Available from Dogwise.com.
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Happy Trails for You and Your Dog: What You Really Need to Know When Taking Your Dog Hiking or Backpacking
by Gary Hoffman
This title is out of print but may be available "used."
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A Guide to Backpacking With Your Dog
by Charlene G. Labelle
Discover the companionship and pleasure of backpacking with your dog! Training, conditioning, nutrition, and packing techniques.
— Available from Amazon.ca and Dogwise.com.
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Hiking with Dogs
by Linda Mullally
Includes detailed recommendations on raising a hiking dog, bonding, training, trail etiquette, and preventing wildlife conflicts, with a special section on dog-friendly public lands.
— Available from Dogwise.com.
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Copyright © P.Mitchell 2003-2006. All Rights Reserved.
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unless otherwise noted, and may not be copied or reproduced without prior written permission.
Last Updated: 21 March 2006
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