How to prepare for a Colorado hike with your dog

June 5, 11:04 AMDenver Dogs ExaminerCourtney Taylor

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Photo: backcountry.com

Summer in Colorado is a great time to go for a hike. So, why not bring along your dog? Hiking is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty that abounds in this state as well as get some great exercise. Gather your friends, leash up the dog, and lace up your boots, and get out there!

Before hitting the trail:

• Since most trails require your dog to be leashed, be sure your dog knows how to do this properly. If your pooch is taking YOU for a walk, a hike will be less pleasant. Consider some training classes and harnesses or leashes that offer more control.
• Check the weather. Colorado weather is unpredictable, so check the weather report the day of your hike and plan accordingly. If it will be hot and sunny, and your dog has a thick coat, consider shortening your hike and bring plenty of water.
• Select the location and consider the length and difficulty when compared with your dog's athleticism. An older dog or a puppy might be better suited to a shorter, easier route. Verify that the trail is dog-friendly, note if the park / trail has specific hours that it is open, and check if there is a fee for use or admittance.

What to bring:

• Leash and/or walking harness. Check out my favorite no-pull harness.
• Bring water as ponds or streams may contain harmful bacteria. Generally, 1 - 2 quarts are recommended for a day excursion.
• Unless your dog drinks from the bottle, bring a travel bowl. Try this striped one from Planet Dog.
• Baggies for clean up. Not all trails provide clean up stations, and, occasionally, these stations are empty. Bamboo waste bags are scented, and the dispenser easily clips to your bag, belt loop, or leash.  
• A completely optional addition is a dog backpack. If you have a strong, athletic dog, let your canine carry his water, treats, or clean up baggies. While you should allow your pooch some time to adjust, many adapt quickly. Distribute the weight evenly, and avoid over-weighting the pack. Well-conditioned dogs can carry between 25 and 30% of their body weight. It is recommended to start with a lighter load and gradually work up to a heavier load. My dog sports the Outward Hound Quick Release Dog Backpack.
• Also optional, are dog hiking boots. These provide extra traction and protection for your canine hiking companion's feet.  Ruffwear's boots are all-terrain and all-season.
• It's never a bad idea to bring along a dog First Aid Kit, especially if hiking in rough terrain. Colorado landscape features cacti, sharp rocks, and snakes, so be prepared with Ruffwear's K9 First Aid Kit.
• If you're planning a slow hike with several breaks, you might want to bring along a toy, such as a Frisbee. I prefer Planet Dog's Orbee-Tuff ZOOM Flyer.
• Long hikes will wear you out and hungering for a snack. Bring along an energy snack for your dog, too, so he can enjoy the fun and forget about his stomach (if that's possible!). Team Realtree Xtreme Fuel™ Dog Energy Treats were designed for hunting dogs and will give your canine an energy boost.

With these tips and products, you and your dog should be ready for a summer of trails and tails! Do you have some doggy hiking tips? Provide them in the comment field below.

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