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Hiking with your dogs; for body, mind and soul.

12/7/2012

3 Comments

 
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Nothing is more fun than taking your dog on a nice, long wilderness hike! The joy and reckless abandon they exhibit is both inspirational and heart-warming. With an excited wag of their tail, they are able to bound over hills and splash through cool creeks. Unrestrained by their leash (with an exceptional, well-trained recall only, of course!), they can track every tiny creature that crosses their path and chase squirrels into trees. Dogs can leap over fallen logs, chase with one another, and breathe in the vast myriad of scents the natural world has to offer. A hike in the great outdoors is a favourite in every dog's heart.

Like the wolf, dogs are physically designed to travel great distances. Their bodies are made for walking, and so they derive the greatest benefits from this infinity healthy activity. The mental stimulation they receive from using all of their senses freely is unmatched and the physical effort of walking, running and jumping leaves them happily exhausted at the end of the day.

Hiking is beneficial to dog and handler for many reasons. While hiking is a great way to get some serious stress relief and greatly reduces boredom, it is also simply good for the soul. Being outdoors and enjoying nature is the perfect way to spend time together, bonding and enjoying each other's company. The fresh air and tranquility of the wilderness will do you and your canine companion a world of good.

Off leash hiking is one of the most enjoyable experiences a dog owner can have, but it must only be allowed when a dog has a near perfect recall. You need to ensure that you can call your dog to your side to be leashed at any time, for any reason. This is especially important when there are other hikers and dogs on the trail, or if there is something dangerous nearby. It is also important to obey leash laws in any given area. There are many areas where you can safely have your dog off leash, you just need to do your research and discover those places!

To add to the experience, try purchasing a dog backpack for your furry friend to wear. Dogs love to be given a job, and it makes the experience much more enjoyable when you have less to carry. Figure out the appropriate amount of weight that your dog can carry  and allow them to do so. The extra 'duty' will only add to the mental and physical stimulation they receive from their adventure. Make sure never to overburden them, sometimes all they need is a water bottle in each sack and they are set to go!

Hiking has an incredible effect on dogs, and you will see the benefits immediately once you incorporate this activity into your life. They will be happier, healthier and more fulfilled members of your family for a lifetime!

Angel
K9 Instinct
3 Comments
Brian
8/9/2013 02:33:31 am

That would be a dream if my dog had any sort of recall (she is great until something furry makes any move) and if I could survive the trip with my dog barking constantly during the drive to a hiking trail. I settle for the undeveloped field behind my house but cannot go off leash. So want to do this with her though but it would be irresponsible.

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Kim D
6/24/2014 02:42:28 pm

Squirrels? Clark and Token scoff at squirrels. Deer, now, those are worthy of being chased! And chased... and chased...

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Rob T.
10/20/2014 12:45:49 am

Great reading this after coming back from taking my two wanderers out for our Sunday morning hike. They absolutely love it as do I because nothing beats beautiful fall days for clearing the head.

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Consult with your veterinarian before applying any of the information contained within this website, its blog, or via consultations. K9 Instinct recommends involving your veterinarian in any plans to utilize the information provided by K9 Instinct, and cannot be held accountable for any damages incurred by the use or misuse of any information provided by K9 Instinct. The guidance of your veterinarian is strongly recommended!