How To Prepare Your Dog For A Hike
Dogs can be excellent company in the outdoors and exploring the wilderness with your furry friends can be an incredibly fun and a great bonding experience, but only if you plan ahead. When hitting the trails with your 4-legged friends it is important to prepare them for any terrain that you may encounter during what could be a very strenuous activity.
If you don’t, bringing your dog could be a dangerous mistake, but not to worry! There are many ways you can prepare your dog to ensure they are safe and comfortable through the whole hike!
Here are our top 4 ways you should prepare your dog for a hike:
First and foremost, you must determine if your dog is capable of making the trip. It is extremely important to make sure your dog can withstand the distance.
If you don’t think your dog can make it this time, start with shorter walks and slowly build their endurance towards the longer, more difficult hikes.
Be aware of the most common dangers or threats that you may encounter while on your hike.
Being knowledgeable of these threats that may arise during your hike beforehand will allow you to come prepared in case an emergency occurs. It is also a good way for you to determine if you and your dog are ready for that particular hike. If there are too many dangerous possibilities you can look for a quieter hike that is safe and you both will still enjoy!
Make sure you have the right gear and resources.
Items such as a first aid kit, dog waste bags, water, water bowl, food and food bowl are essentials for any hike with your dog. Along with sunscreen and other weather appropriate items such as hats, jackets, proper footwear, etc. It is always important that you both stay protected, hydrated, and well nourished during your hike.
Prepare your dog beforehand for the upcoming rough terrain and possible extreme weather conditions.
Making sure your dog's paws are prepared for what could be more extreme conditions is crucial to the success of your hike and the comfort of your dog. Applying a thin layer of Musher’s Secret Dog Paw Wax 2-3 times a week will help prepare your dogs paws for the extreme cold and even extreme heat! We recommend that when in snowy conditions you apply additional applications and to prevent snowballing rub up our wax in between and around your dog’s pads.
Now that you’re ready to go it’s time for you and your dog to take on a new adventure!
