Hiking with dogs

Just as with humans, the walking route for the dog should be chosen according to age, health and fitness level. Basically, young dogs should have completed the growth phase before they are taken on hikes. A rule of thumb: the dog should be at least one year old. To prepare for the first hiking adventures together, longer walks are very helpful – as your four-legged friend continuously builds up physical condition and sure-footedness.

Ultimately, of course, the choice of hiking route depends on the dog breed itself: with a breed that loves to run, such as a Labrador or Border Collie, longer distances can be covered than with a Dachshund or Poodle. Not only the distance of a hike is decisive, you should also keep an eye on the difference in altitude that you have to cover, so that you don't overexert your dog.

Excellent planning is half the battle: this also applies to hiking with your dog. Before setting off on a hike with your four-legged friend, you should find out whether there are sufficient sources of water along the route. In order to avoid nasty surprises, you should also research whether there are tricky climbing passages on the hiking trail. In case of multi-day hiking tours with overnight stays at a hut, you have to make sure if dogs are allowed in the hut.

Spring and autumn are the best times of year to hike with your dog. Especially on hot summer days, there is a risk of heat stroke for your four-legged friend - accordingly, you should avoid the hottest days in the summer months. There is also a general danger to humans and animals if there are free-ranging cows or grazing cattle! The 10 rules of conduct for alpine pasture visitors, which you can find HERE at the bottom of the page, explain how to behave correctly on alpine pasturelands and in mountain areas.