Why Not Take Your Dog Along On Your Next Backpacking Trip?

by Ric Henderson 

You know how they say that dog is man’s best friend?  Well why not take your buddy out with you for one of the best and most peaceful

experiences of your life?  What better way to solidify the bond that already exists between you and your dog than to include him on your next backpacking trip.

If you have problems getting your other friends to go on trips with you or would prefer to be alone, you dog can be a great companion to take.  You will never have to debate which route you are going to take and he will always be happy to be by your side.  While your friends may not be too happy to travel across a creek, your dog will jump in without hesitation and show you how it’s done.

Of course, there are some things to take into consideration before you take Rover along with you.  First and foremost, he needs to have discipline.  You are going to be out in the wild and you cannot risk him running off.  It is really not reasonable to be able to keep him on a leash, so your dog is going to need to be very disciplined, remain by your side under control and not run off as soon as he sees a squirrel.  If your dog is like that, think twice before you get him ready for the trip.

Something else to consider is that your dog is going to have to be in good shape for this trip.  You are going to be on the move for 10-12 hours a day and if your dog is old or out of shape, a trip like this would not be in his best interest.  Make sure he is able to make the trip and a quick trip to the vet prior might be a very good move just to make sure he is able to take on the backpacking trip.

Another consideration to make is that your dog is going to need food and water just like you do.  You may want to pack his meals for individual days so that you don’t randomly run out.  Get him used to timed feedings before the trip so that he is not begging or trying to let you know that he wants something to eat.

What you will want to do is pack some treats for him when you are on the trails.  Just like you, he is going to need to replenish his energy during the course of the day.  You can feed him a couple of treats every hour or so and that will be just like you munching on your energy bar.  It will keep him happy and energized.

What is more fun that taking your dog to the park for the day?  You get home and all he does is show his gratitude.  Imagine how happy he is going to be after a 3 or 4 day trip in the wilderness with his best buddy.  The bond between you and your dog is a very special friendship and it will only get stronger after a backpacking trip.