Tips and Tricks for Backpacking with Dogs
Adventuring with Your Furry Friend
Outdoor adventurers, weekend warriors, and digital nomads: let’s talk about the time of year when the fresh air beckons and camping gear starts to call out your name. With summer approaching, it’s time to take those epic trips with our four-legged friends!
A dog is the perfect hiking buddy for a day hike or a multi-day overnight backpacking trip. While backpacking with a dog is immensely satisfying, a lot goes into prepping for such a journey — and luckily, we have you covered!
In this article, we’ll provide invaluable insights on how you and your dog can prepare for a successful trip on the trail. Read on and discover helpful guidance from experienced outdoors folks who know best about backpacking trips with their canine companions.
Pack the essentials.
Taking a dog on an outdoor adventure can be an enriching experience for both of you. However, ensuring you are well-prepared before embarking on such a journey is essential. Essential gear includes items like dog packs, water and food bowls, first aid kits, blankets, and identification.
The basics include:
Dog harness: Harnesses come in all shapes and sizes. Ensure you get one that fits while giving your dog the freedom to move and function. When you’re starting out, this can be the harness you usually use, and then upgrade down the line if you’d like. I use the Kurgo Journey Air Harness for Rowan because it breathes better than other bands and gives her more freedom of movement.
Collapsible dog bowls: You want to bring at least two for food and water. The world’s your oyster here, but make sure they’re made of durable materials that you can repair on the trail if needed. I’ve had Ruffwear’s Quencher bowls for the past two years, and they have held up great, though I’m thinking of degrading to their Bivy bowls or Atlas Pet Company’s featherweight Lifetime Bowl.
Dry bags: A couple of good, lightweight dry bags can make or break your trip. Pack them with mission-critical supplies like food or permits; you’ll be ready to brave the elements.
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Jackets: Dogs get cold, just like us. Pack a good, durable fleece or soft-shell dog jacket on cold days to keep your dog warm and happy. Some dog packs even have removable liners that allow you to insulate as needed. Pack one on any trip where the temperature dips below 50 degrees — the risk of hypothermia increases for both you and your dog after 50 degrees. Better safe than sorry.
Life jackets: If you’re going on a trip involving water, like a canoeing or kayaking trip, having a life jacket with some kind of handle that you can use to lift them out of the water is essential.
Lights: Lights are essential for nighttime, allowing you and other people to see where your dog is, as well as letting your dog see where they are. They come in collar and clip-on varieties.
First aid kit: While dog owners can get by with just a roll of duct tape and tenacity, dogs require more care. Just be sure you attend a dog first aid class or workshop so you know how to recognize the signs of common injuries or stress in your dog, including heat stroke, hypothermia, exhaustion, broken bones, and snake bite. Get a dog-specific first aid kit and medical guide, and be prepared for anything.
Paw balm: Since dogs usually don’t wear shoes, dog paw pads can take a real beating. A good balm on hand helps protect your dog’s paws from stress and injury on the trail, which can become severe if left untreated. You can get by with human-grade balm in a pinch, but I always keep a tin of Musher’s Secret in Rowan’s pack.
Dog boots: Most people think of dog boots (technically dog booties) as a cold weather item, but they are helpful for many more situations. They’re useful on hot days, especially if you know there will be stone or concrete, which can get unbearably hot no matter where you are and do a painful number on your dog’s feet. They protect dog paws from the sand. Pack them if there are a lot of trail hazards to prevent injury to your dog’s paws. Always have them on hand and be prepared. Make sure your dog is used to them before going out on a trip — most dogs don’t dig them when you first put them on.
ID Tags/Tracker: This needs no introduction, but you want to be sure your dog can be identified and found if they run off. Get a good, durable dog tag and ensure your dog is comfortable with it before going on a trip — I found out that Rowan loves to chew off lightweight silicone dog tags. My favorite tag isn’t a tag at all — it’s Orvis’s personalized dog collars, which come in a flea collar-compatible one and a durable climbing rope variety.
Dog Tracker: You want a real dog tracker. Adding an Apple Airtag or Tile is always tempting, but those require phone service — something the backcountry has in short supply. I have redundant tracking — Rowan is microchipped, and I am researching the best backcountry dog tracker. I’ve heard good things about Fi, though I’m not too fond of their always-on subscription, as well as Tractive, which isn’t an oversized hockey puck like many trackers on the market.
If your dog is microchipped, make sure it’s activated and has the correct information, and be sure your tag notes they are chipped.
As well as essentials for your dog, always make sure you’re carrying your essentials, Many of them, like water filters, are essential for your dog.
Choose the right backpack for your dog.
Dog packs come in all shapes and sizes; what works for one dog may not work for your dog. Like your own pack, you want to ensure a dog backpack fits your dog and gives them freedom of movement. Ensure the front of the pack fits your dog’s neck and chest without being too tight or loose.
Check the store’s return policy when buying, and try it out on short walks around the neighborhood or short day hikes. Don’t be afraid to return it and try something else — you only know how gear works once you test it.
A note about packing a dog pack: It can be tempting to pack everything your dog needs into their pack, but a dog’s body weight, breed, and age can massively impact how much they can carry. Generally, you only want to pack up to 25% of your dog’s weight. Certain dog breeds, like terriers, need to carry less to prevent injury. Older dogs with more brittle bones should carry far less than 25%. When in doubt, check with your vet.
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Train with your dog.
A backpacking trip is an extended workout for you and your dog. Like a full marathon, you need to start with a small distance and gradually work your way to more challenging terrain or more extended stays. This is also a great time to try out essential equipment, like your dog’s backpack — how much weight can your dog carry? If their pack weight is heavier than they can comfortably move, be prepared to take some of their gear in your pack until they are comfortable with the increased weight.
When I trained Rowan to wear a dog pack, I started with day hikes and built up her strength by putting soup cans in her dog pack, increasing the amount every time we went on a trip. In no time at all, she was confidently carrying her own gear.
Day hikes are also an excellent way to gauge your dog’s fitness levels and overall comfort. A short-haired dog may be able to keep up more easily and have a better time comfortably wearing a dog backpack, while a long-haired dog may have trouble wearing a pack over long distances.
No matter your dog’s breed, you will want to know their limits — make sure you understand the signs of heat stroke and exhaustion and be prepared to take action if needed. Most dogs will run themselves ragged, especially if they know their owners are having fun, so it’s up to you to know their limits and keep your dog safe.
Research the trail and terrain you plan to explore.
Embarking on a new adventure is always exciting, but when you bring your furry companion, conducting thorough research is crucial before hitting the trail. You want to ensure that your pup is comfortable and safe every step of the way.
Safety should always be your top priority when exploring the great outdoors. That’s why researching the trail and terrain beforehand is so important. Look for potential obstacles or issues that might pose difficulties for your dog so that you can be prepared with the right gear or alternative routes.
Finding dog-friendly trails is also essential. Trails designed for humans can include steeper grades and more trail hazards than ones built for dogs — jagged rocks, steep ascents, and narrow paths are fun for us, but they can take a toll on your dog’s body. Some state and national parks also permit dogs to hike on specific trails and not for others for various reasons other than safety, including biodiversity, wild animals, or simple trail etiquette.
It’s as much about being considerate to other hikers as having fun hiking with your dog — don’t ruin the fun by forcing your dog to hike your favorite trail or disregard permitted dog trails.
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Bring enough food and water.
Bringing your dog on a backpacking trip is an exciting and rewarding experience but requires careful planning. One important item to consider packing for your dog is food — after all, you want them to stay nourished and energized during the journey. There are many options, from packing the same food your dog eats at home to dehydrated or vacuum-packed fresh meals. No matter what you bring, make sure your dog’s food has enough protein and nutrients to keep them energized during the trip.
Fortunately, there are several options available when it comes to bringing dog food backpacking. From dehydrated meals that take up less space in your pack to lightweight kibble that can be easily portioned out over multiple days, it’s easy to find the best option for your dog.
I usually pack the same dog food that Rowan eats at home, portioned into a lightweight dry bag to ensure it stays dry the whole trip. You want to make sure you keep your dog happy during the trip, so be sure to pack extra food — a good rule of thumb is to pack 30% more food than you think you need. That way, if your trip gets extended, accidentally or not, you have more than enough food.
Just like humans, dogs require more water when active. Be sure to bring a water filter with you, and don’t be afraid to pack an extra water bottle just for your dog. I like this water bottle by Vapur, which is lightweight and collapsible, plus has a ball at the end of the spout to allow your dog to drink straight from the bottle, so you don’t have to break out the bowls every time you make a stop.
Dogs need around one ounce of water per pound of body weight while backpacking. Pay attention to your dog’s water consumption, and always make sure your dog is drinking water whenever you stop for a break.
Also, be sure to filter your dog’s water — they can get sick from untreated drinking water, same as you!
Be sure to watch your dog closely, and be prepared to take more breaks than you think they need if they show signs of exhaustion or heat stroke.
Overnight backpacking trips with your dog requires more preparation.
Overnight trips with your dog can be fun but require more preparation than a simple day hike.
Research your destination
Pre-trip research is critical. Some parks, especially national parks, allow dogs on a few small, select trails, while some don’t allow dogs anywhere in the park. Depending on where you’re going, alternative national and state parks in the areas may allow dogs within the park, so you don’t need to entirely write off a place you have your heart set on visiting.
As well as dog attendance policies, permit requirements vary between parks, and not just for your pet. Along with pet permits, many parks require permits if you intend to camp or use facilities on park property. Do your research well in advance to prevent disappointment when one or both of you can’t enter the parks on your chosen weekend! Some of the busiest national parks have reservation systems in place that dictate whether you can visit the park at all, let alone camp there.
Overnight requires more gear.
One of the most critical aspects to consider when backpacking with your dog for an overnight trip is their sleeping arrangements. While you may be ready to rough it in a tent, your dog may need a comfortable sleeping space too. That’s where a dog sleeping bag comes in handy. These bags provide a cozy and warm place for your pup to snuggle up in and stay comfortable throughout the night. They also offer additional insulation, which is especially vital if you’re camping during colder months. Select a dog sleeping bag that fits your pet’s size and sleeping preferences. With the right gear, you and your furry pal will surely have a restful night’s sleep under the stars.
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Train your pup to respond to commands such as “stay” and “come”; this will help keep them safe on the adventure.
As pet owners, we want our furry companions to enjoy every adventure with us, but safety should always be the top priority. That’s why it’s crucial to train our pups to respond to essential commands such as “stay” and “come.” By teaching them these simple yet effective cues, we can ensure they stay out of harm’s way and return to us when necessary. In some areas, such as bear country, it can mean the difference between life and death for your dog. With consistent training and positive reinforcement, your pup can navigate the great outdoors like a pro, creating unforgettable memories and cherished moments with their favorite human.
If you’re planning a new adventure, invest time and effort into training your dog to respond to these essential commands, and you’ll have a safer, happier, and more fulfilling experience together.
Make sure your pup is up-to-date with their vaccinations.
As much as we love spending time outdoors with our dogs, it’s important to make sure they’re protected from harmful diseases. Vaccines not only help prevent your dog from getting sick but also protect other dogs or wild animals they may come into contact with. That’s why it’s crucial to keep your pup’s vaccinations up-to-date before heading out on adventures.
You can also talk to your vet about any backcountry-specific vaccinations your dog can get, such as Lyme disease and leptospirosis. My vet even gave Rowan a rattlesnake vaccine that, while not fully preventing the effects of snake bite, increased antibody production and slowed the venom’s progress, hopefully buying enough time to get off the trail and to a vet hospital. I didn’t even know that was a thing.
Make sure you bring a leash.
Whether you’re taking your dog on a walk around the block or embarking on a wilderness adventure, it’s always a good idea to have a leash on hand. Leashes are required in most national and state parks, even if your dog is trained for off-leash hiking. Failure to comply can result in a fine; no one wants that.
As well as following regulations, leashes serve a practical purpose. A leash lets you control your dog’s movements, preventing them from getting into potentially dangerous situations. Even the most well-behaved dogs can get spooked or distracted, and having a leash can ensure their safety and give you peace of mind.
Because Rowan is a Lab-Husky mix, she loves to greet people by jumping up on them. Having her leash allows me to make sure she’s under control when encountering other people — or other dogs — on the trail.
Whether you’re hitting the trails or just enjoying a stroll through the neighborhood, remember to bring a leash for your pet. It helps ensure safety as well as a good time.
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Be prepared to deal with dog poop.
There’s a popular route on a popular state park in my area, and every time I hike that route, there’s always some dog poop right on the trail. Once, a woman let her dog poop on the trail cairn itself while apologizing to everyone who passed that she forgot poop bags. I gave her a bag. Guess what was still there on the way back?
Everyone hates that person. Don’t be that person.
While it may not be the most glamorous task, having a plan to pick up and dispose of pet waste responsibly will ensure everyone can enjoy the great outdoors without stepping into any unwanted surprises. That’s why it’s important to come prepared when hiking with your dog — bring along plenty of poop bags for scooping up any messes and dispose of them properly at designated areas or take them home for proper disposal.
Not only does this help keep our trails clean, but it also helps protect wildlife and water sources from disease-causing bacteria and parasites found in dog poop.
Know what wildlife may be in the area.
As a pet owner, one of your top priorities should be keeping your furry friend safe and protected during outdoor adventures. Before embarking on a hike or camping trip with your pup, it’s essential to consider the wildlife that may be present in the area. Are there bears, wolves, or coyotes known to frequent the region? How about venomous snakes or spiders?
Knowing the potential risks will help you take the necessary precautions to keep your pup safe. For example, keeping your dog close on a leash or using a bear bell can deter wildlife from coming too close. Bring a pet first-aid kit to prepare you for any potential emergencies. You can ensure a fun and safe adventure for you and your pup with a bit of preparation.
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Backpacking with your pup is an incredible way to deepen the bond between you and your pooch. With some preparation, practice, and a good attitude, your adventures into the wild will be successful and incredibly memorable. Being prepared for the unexpected makes all the difference on the trail. Stocking up on supplies, being aware of nearby wildlife, and training your pup beforehand are critical components to consider when hitting the trail with your canine companion.
Remember, enjoy each other’s company because there is no better way to explore than by doing it side by side with your best friend!
Rob Brown is a backpacker and photographer. He writes about life outdoors, as well as gear and tips for you to make the mosst of your next adventure. Right now, he’s probably on the side of a trail sharing a view with Rowan, his rescue Lab-Husky mix.
