How to Train Your Dog for Hiking Adventures

Hiking with your dog can be an incredibly rewarding experience for both of you. Dogs have a powerful connection to nature—most love the outdoors, probably even more than we humans do. However, it’s important to prepare your canine companion with proper training before you hit the trails. This will help keep both of you safe and allow you to hike without worrying that your dog will run off, eat something harmful, or bother other hikers. Here are some tips for training your dog for hiking adventures.

Assessing Your Dog

Some dogs are more naturally suited for hiking than others, but most dogs can be trained for hiking. When preparing to take your dog hiking for the first time, start by evaluating their physical and behavioral readiness. Here are some factors to consider.

Breed and Age

Active breeds like Rhodesian Ridgebacks thrive on trails and may be capable of handling fairly challenging hikes. On the other hand, smaller or brachycephalic breeds (with short snouts and flat faces) may struggle with breathing on more challenging routes, but may be capable of handling beginner trails if they’re otherwise healthy. Puppies and senior dogs may not have the stamina for long hikes.

Physical Condition

Make sure your dog is healthy enough for physical activity. If it has any medical conditions, consult a veterinarian for advice. They can let you know whether your dog is capable of hiking and what kind of routes they can handle.

Behavioral Readiness

You can expect to encounter other hikers on the trails, and some may be hiking with their own dogs. A well-socialized dog that responds reliably to your commands is much easier to manage on the trail. If your dog tends to be reactive or anxious, work on behavioral training to correct these traits before heading to the trails.

Building Stamina and Physical Fitness

If your dog isn’t used to long walks or walking uphill, you’ll need to help them build endurance gradually before hiking. Start with short distances and gradually increase the duration of your walks over time. Incorporate different types of terrain, such as grass, gravel, rocks, and small hills, to prepare your dog for the challenges of hiking trails.

Watch for signs they’re getting fatigued, such as excessive panting, lagging behind, or limping. Give your pup plenty of breaks during these training sessions and provide them with plenty of water. Proper conditioning will help prepare your dog for hiking and help prevent injuries.

Essential Commands for Hiking With a Dog

Obedience training is a must for all dog owners, but it’s especially important for your dog to respond to these commands when hiking.

Come

If the trails you hike permit off-leash dogs, your dog will need a strong recall. This command teaches your dog to return to you immediately when prompted (usually with the word “come”). Here’s how to train for this command:

1.      Start in a controlled, low-distraction environment, like your backyard or a quiet park.

2.      Use a long leash or training line to give your dog some freedom while maintaining control.

3.      Call your dog’s name followed by the command “Come.” Use a cheerful and encouraging tone.

4.      When your dog comes to you, reward them with a combination of high-value treats, praise, and play.

5.      Gradually increase the level of distraction by practicing in busier environments.

6.      Practice regularly to reinforce the behavior.

Heel

Your dog needs to be able to walk calmly by your side on narrow trails and crowded paths. Follow these steps to teach the “heel” command:

1.      Start training inside of your house, ideally in a large room or hallway.

2.      Hold treats in your hand, call your dog’s name, and point to the side where you want them to walk.

3.      Once your dog walks at your side, immediately reward them with praise and a treat.

4.      Gradually increase the pace and start zig-zagging to give him a chance to lose you and return to your side.

5.      As the dog improves, incorporate eye contact with phrases like “Look” or “Watch Me”.

Take It and Leave It

This command prevents your dog from eating harmful items like mushrooms or garbage. Here’s how to teach it:

1.      Hold a treat in your closed fist and present it to your dog.

2.      When your dog sniffs or paws at your hand, wait for them to ignore your hand.

3.      The moment your dog backs away or looks at you, praise them, open your fist, and say “Take it.”

4.      Once your dog starts ignoring the treat, repeat the process.

5.      Teach the “Leave it” command by placing a treat on the floor, covering it with your hand, and allowing your dog to try to get it.

6.      Once the dog stops trying to get the treat, praise them and give them a different treat.

7.      When the dog starts regularly ignoring the covered treat, remove your hand to give your dog a chance to ignore an uncovered treat.

8.      Start to incorporate the phrase “Leave it” and reward them when they ignore the treat. Repeat this process until your dog understands the command.

Stay and Wait

These commands are useful for controlling your dog when you encounter an obstacle on the trail, something your dog wants to chase, or another passing hiker.

1.      Start with your dog in a sitting position.

2.      Hold your palm out in front of you like a stop signal and say “Stay.”

3.      Take a step back. If your dog stays, reward them with a treat and praise. If they move, calmly reset and start again.

4.      Gradually increase the distance and duration of the stay command.

5.      For “Wait,” use the same method but release your dog with a specific cue like “Okay” or “Go.”

Drop It

This command prompts your dog to release something they’ve picked up, which is important if they grab something harmful.

1.      Start with a toy your dog likes. Let them hold it in their mouth.

2.      Offer a high-value treat and say “Drop it.” When your dog releases the toy, reward them immediately.

3.      Practice with various objects and make sure your dog understands the command.

4.      Use the command on walks or during playtime to reinforce the behavior.

Once you’ve helped your dog master these commands and physically prepare, you’re ready for your first hike. Start the training process today, and you’ll soon have a loyal hiking partner ready to tackle new adventu