Hiking does wonders for your physical and mental health. It keeps your brain and memory sharp, elevates your mood, reduces the risk of depression, and helps create meaningful bonds. So, it's no wonder you'd like to bring your best bud with you on a hike.

Hiking with your dog can be a memorable experience. However, just like you wouldn't go out for a hike in sandals— you need to make some consideration for your furry friend and his safety and the safety of your fellow hikers. Here are some tips that'll keep your four-legged friend out of trouble.

Prep Your Pup

Not all dogs make suitable hiking partners. Depending on the age, breed, size, and personality of your dog, it may be too much of a strenuous activity for him to undertake. Especially for homely dogs, steep and uneven trails may be tough to navigate. Ensure your god is eating a nutritious diet before hiking since it requires more energy than usual activities.

Alternatively, you can visit the vet and ask him some key questions, especially if your dog has some pre-existing medical conditions that need to be addressed. If your dog needs any specific vaccinations or preventative medicines, get him those. Ask your vet if your dog's bones are developed enough to hike and if your dog is well enough to accompany you.

Keep Your Dog Leashed

As much as we'd like for everyone to love dogs, that isn't the case in reality. Many people may be frightened of dogs or have another dog that'll cause your pet to get aggressive and vice versa. Keep your dog leashed at all times, and most trails require you to keep your dog on a leash that is six feet in length.

Some national and state parks don't allow dogs, so make sure your pet is permitted on the trail. When hiking, make sure your dog doesn't stray away from the track. He could be harming sensitive wildlife, an innocent mountain biker, or be bitten by dangerous snakes and plants.

Take Breaks

Ensure you're resting on the trail so that you don't overexert yourself or your furry friend. Feed your dog an hour before hiking or thirty minutes after— anything more or less than that can cause them to get sick.

Bring plenty of food and water for your pet. Since dogs can't sweat, they're at high risk for heatstroke. Bring a collapsible dish to give your dog water in, and don't let him near any natural water sources as it may contain dangerous parasites.

Pick Up After Your Pet

Dog excrement contains harmful bacteria that can disrupt wildlife, local habitats, and water supplies. Be prepared to pick up after your dog at any time on the trail. Use pet waste bags, and dispose of them in a trashcan along the route. Even though some hiking trails provide dog waste bags, it's always best to be prepared beforehand.

Looking for hiking gear? At Light Hiking Gear, we've got comfortable and durable hiking backpacks and gear. Invest in our day backpacks or our lightweight bags for a stress-free and healthy hike with your pup.

Contact us at 801-971-0007 or email us Service@LightHikingGear.com to find out more.