While luxuriating on hot, sugar-sand beaches might be the dream for some, others are in search of something a little more dog-friendly – here’s how to get started hiking with your canine companion.
In recent years, a penchant for UK staycations has been firmly cemented among Britons, especially since the number of households owning pets skyrocketed during the pandemic. According to holiday accommodation company Canine Cottages, there was a 36% increase in dog-friendly bookings in 2023 vs the previous year, a trend that’s holding true in 2024.
From coastal climbs in Devon to hilly hikes in Yorkshire, our canine companions are increasingly joining us for the journey. However, for those planning their first dog-friendly adventure, it may seem a little daunting.
“Take it slow and give your dog time to adjust. Don’t head off on a week-long wild camping trip in the wilderness if your dog has never seen a tent before!” says Hollie Jenkins, video creator behind the Instagram account, The Edinburgh Spaniels. “For hiking, build up both difficulty of terrain and length of hike gradually, ensuring your dog has plenty of rest after. For camping, introduce your dog to the tent ahead of time — maybe put it up in a garden and give them time to walk in/out with treats.”
While you might be ready to scale Snowdonia with your four-legged bestie, be patient with your dog out in the countryside. They’ll be experiencing new smells and places, so are likely going to be excitable or unsettled. Start with some practice hikes to get started so you can assess your dog’s limits. Consider your dog’s breed, age, and fitness level — not every dog is built for long treks.
Be prepared
Ultimately, planning and preparation is everything. Thoroughly research your route, check the weather conditions and assess what gear and supplies you’ll need.
“A dog’s basic needs are similar to our own: food, water and gear for the journey ahead,” says Dani Reese, ambassador manager at dog apparel company, Ruffwear. “Just like how you would pack first aid for yourself, you need first aid for your dog, too. It’s important to check the weather forecast before you set off, then you can pack extra water or layers.”
The Met Office and Mountain Weather Information Service are both great resources for checking you and your pooch are prepared and comfortable with the conditions. Think about what kit you’ll need and remember that dogs will need plenty of water in both hot and cold weather.
“When it’s particularly hot, take frequent water breaks so your dog can sit in the shade and drink water. Dog cools down the quickest through their belly, paws and armpits, so if they’re very hot, focus on cooling these areas first,” says Dani. “Remember that the cold burns more calories, so bring extra food and high-calorie treats.”
When it comes to kit, Hollie doesn’t head out on hikes without a waist bungee lead, so she can clip her dogs to her but still have both hands free, or a well-fitted harness, which is safer than just a collar (especially if the terrain is slippery) and has a handle so she can lift them during trickier scrambles. A durable dog lead is also key, as well as treats with a high meat percentage to keep up their energy and sense of reward. In hot weather, a cooling harness is a great investment.
“For the dogs, in winter I take booties in case the snow bobbles on their feet, a warm coat and a lifting harness if it’s going to have difficult scrambling,” says Hollie. “Invest in good waterproofs and pack plenty of layers. I would be much happier coming back from a hike with one extra layer in my bag that hadn’t been touched, than need it and not have it.”
Check the rules and regulations of your chosen hiking spot
Another important thing to check is laws — the 1980 Highways Act gives walkers the right to access certain paths across private land, but this doesn’t extend to dogs. Landowners can decide whether or not to allow dogs on their property, and these restrictions are usually there to protect wildlife, livestock and/or the dog from harm.
“Not every trail allows dogs, or some trails will require you to keep your dog on a lead, says Dani. “For leaded areas, we would recommend a hands-free lead that attaches to your waist, or if a short part of the walk requires a dog lead, a short leash will be handy.”
The 2016 Dog Fouling Act places responsibility on the person in charge of the dog at the time of fouling, even if the dog isn’t yours. If you fail to clean up after your dog you could be fined up to £100. Additionally, the 1953 Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act is another one to be aware of. If your dog is not under close control around livestock, you can be imprisoned for up to 12 months, and/or fined up to £40,000. For this reason and others, you’ll want a durable and versatile lead and harness set up and you’ll need your dog to have the appropriate training — good recall is imperative for a safe and fun hiking trip.
“Often there are sheep, cattle and deer roaming in the hills and it’s our responsibility as owners to make sure our pets don’t chase or worry them. Unless you’re keeping your dog on a lead the entire time, you need to have recall nailed,” explains Hollie. “Also, terrain and ground shape can change dramatically, so you need to be able to recall your dog away from edges, should a sharp ledge be revealed.”
Once your and your dog’s safety are in hand, it’s time to focus on one thing; having great adventures, leaving only footprints — and pawprints — as you explore.
