Hiking with Dogs in LA: 4 Things You Need to Know
With great weather, diverse terrain, and an abundance of trails, the Greater Los Angeles Area is a great place for hiking. There are also plenty of suitable trails for hiking with a canine friend. State parks in California don't allow dogs on trails, even when leashed, but hikers can generally bring their leashed dogs on trails in national, county, and local parks.
Hiking with dogs is associated with a variety of benefits, both for you and your pet, but there are several rules and etiquette guidelines you need to follow. Here's a quick rundown of what you need to know before venturing onto LA trails with your dog.
Best Dog-Friendly Trails
LA has suitable dog-friendly trails for many different breeds, from short treks for smaller dogs to longer trails for active breeds like Siberian huskies and Rhodesian Ridgebacks. The 1.1-mile loop hike in Amir's Garden in Griffith Park is moderately challenging, but a good distance for small breeds. Dogs must be on a leash, however, as this area, which includes 275 feet of elevation gain, is also popular among horseback riders.
Runyon Canyon is another area that's also great for hiking with smaller and/or active dogs. Located in the middle of Hollywood, it is one of the most popular dog trails in LA and has on- and off-leash areas with loop trails ranging from 1.6 to 3.5 miles. There's also a dog park near the bottom of the canyon so expect to meet other canines.
Sandstone Peak, Vital Link Trail, and Marshall Canyon are among the best hiking spots for active dogs. Sandstone, located in Malibu, has more than 1,000 feet of elevation gain and offers 360-degree views at its summit. Vital Link Trail, meanwhile, is a 3.8-mile out-and-back route in Wildwood Canyon Park in Burbank. Owners are required to put a leash on their dogs at both of these trails, but have a little more flexibility at Marshall Canyon, which has trails ranging from 1 to 10.5 miles, a creek, some nice shade, and fun areas to explore.
The BARK Rule
Some parks have their own rules for dogs, so it's important for owners to check out all signage before letting their dogs roam free on the trails. When in doubt, it's best to follow the American Kennel Club's National Parks BARK rule. The four letters of the acronym stand for:
· Bagging your dog's waste
· Always leashing your dog
· Respecting wildlife
· Knowing where you can go
Picking up after your dog is standard etiquette when you’re walking in your neighborhood, but it's just as important in remote locations, where the waste can impact the water supply. Unless you're certain a trail is off-leash, it's necessary to keep your dog leashed on walking trails, especially in busier areas with walkers who might not be comfortable with dogs, and other dogs who may not be so well-behaved as your own. This will also prevent your dog from getting into unwelcome encounters with wildlife.
Essential Gear
Regardless of your dog's physical condition, age, or energy level, there are a few essential items you need to bring. This includes waste bags, a collar with a leash of at least six feet, treats, and a portable water bowl with sufficient water supply. Bringing water is vital even if hiking in areas with ponds, lakes, or streams. These water sources might not be fit to drink.
A small first aid kit and dog booties or dog paw wax can also keep your pet safe and comfortable on the trail. Dog boots can slip right on their paws, providing protection when hiking rough terrain or traversing hot pavement, which can burn your dog’s paws. Wax functions similarly, giving a protective layer for the dog's paws. In addition to having a first aid kit to repair any wounds your dog might incur, you should know how to safely remove ticks to reduce risk of additional illness.
A trail harness is another useful piece of equipment that can keep your dog secure and comfortable. Some even have additional space for storage or a water container that helps regulate the dog’s temperature on hot days. Some other equipment considerations include attachable LED lights, high-visibility jackets, and vehicle seat covers.
Benefits for You and Your Dog
Hiking is a great form of exercise for both you and your dog. Most dogs need 30 minutes or more of exercise per day, and hiking is an easy and fun way to meet this target. Without sufficient exercise, dogs are more prone to chronic health issues, such as arthritis, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Dog owners, on average, are more likely to get more exercise each day than those who don't own dogs, which benefits their physical and mental health.
Long hikes also provide mental stimulation for your dog, reducing their stress levels and, in turn, their likelihood of exhibiting destructive or unwanted behaviors at home. Hiking on dog-friendly trails also allows your pet to interact and socialize with other dogs in an appropriate environment. It also helps create a stronger bond between you and your dog.