Sharing the outdoors with your furry friend can reap huge rewards. There is nothing quite like sharing something you love with a furry face that always looks happily back at you, shares your excitement and also likes to cuddle. Especially the cuddles. I have had the pleasure of camping, backpacking and hiking everything from trail runs to 14ers with my most faithful outdoor companion. I love the way my dog starts freaking out when I pull out my camping or hiking gear – it’s very evident to me dogs enjoy adventure just as much as we do.

However, caring for man’s best friend in the wilderness takes extra preparation to ensure you both stay happy and safe. It is very different than the type of care you provide at home! After adventuring with my pup for several years, I am going to highlight some of the most important things we have learned together.

1) Bring plenty of food and water

This should be a no-brainer, but you will need more food and water than you think. If your dog is being more active than usual, they are going to eat more food and drink more water. I always have pre-portioned food servings for my dog, and water easily handy at all times. I use a Gulpy Pet Water Dispenser – it is super convenient to use on the road. If you take a break for water, give your pup some too. Don’t let them drink water from lakes or streams – the same bacteria that can make you sick will affect your dog too! Keep a watch out for friends that may try to sneak your dog toasted marshmallows and other human food – the very last thing you want is for your pup to have an upset stomach. Trust me, it’s not fun for either parties. It is important to maintain your dog’s normal diet.

2) Understand your dog’s physical ability

Would you take a friend who is always indoors and never outside on a 50 mile backpacking trip or sign them up to run a full marathon? No? Keep this in mind for your dog too. Dogs will need to work up to longer hikes and will need experience on trails and various types of terrain before taking on larger adventures. The best thing you can do is acclimate your dog over time to higher elevations and rocky terrain. Outdoor adventures often involve walking on rocky, hot, or cold and snowy ground. Not only will your dog need to physically adjust, but you will also want to pay attention to how their paws are responding to various ground surfaces. It is ideal to train your dog to wear booties, but if your dog is anything like mine he will never keep them on(no matter how cute I think they are). I like to put Paw Protection Cream on my little guy’s feet before we take on rougher or snowy surfaces – but this will not replace the conditioning your dog will gain over time and experience on the trail. Even with proper experience and conditioning, your dog can still get injured if the terrain is too rocky (sometimes I put my little guy in my backpack if the going gets rough). If your dog does injure their paws, you can apply vaseline to speed the healing and give them time to rest.

3) Understand your dog’s temperament

I cannot stress enough how important it is to understand how your dog will respond to certain factors while bringing them outdoors! This will require you to watch for cues they give while being outside, and learning to recognize their reactions to EVERYTHING. While hiking with your dog, you will have to know what to do when you come across other dogs, humans, and critters. If you know your dog does not always get along with other dogs, children, or people, please be courteous and keep them next to you on a leash. Only let your dog off-leash if you feel your dog will stay right next to you – at all times – and is in an area where they are safe. If you are in an area where predators could be present, do not take your dog off leash. This includes higher-alpine areas where hawks and eagles are present if you have a smaller dog!

4) Flea, tick and heartworm Protection

Please make sure your dog is taking medications for all of the above critters – ask your vet which medication is best for your dog based on their breed, size, and age. Perform a thorough tick check on your dog after each day you spend outside. The smaller ticks and wood ticks are carriers of Lyme Disease and often attach to dogs specifically in wooded or forest areas. If your dog is on medication for ticks this will reduce their risk, but it is still important to promptly remove ticks if you find a bite and contact your vet.

5) Monitor your dog’s temperature

Your dogs fur coat is not always enough to keep them warm in colder weather! Watch for signs of shivering, walking with an arched back, or short breaths from your dog if it’s cold out. Warm your dog immediately using whatever you have if this happens to prevent hypothermia. I always put a jacket on my dog when it’s cold to prevent this. Your dog can also overheat – give your dog time to roll in patches of snow if they need to, sit in the shade, or roll around in some water If you notice they are becoming overly fatigued.

6) First aid

I’ve never had to use my dogs First Aid Kit, but you bet I’m prepared incase something goes wrong. I like this Canine Friendly First Aid Kit – it has several dressings, an emergency blanket incase my pup gets too cold, and special antiseptic that is safe for dog use. Better safe than sorry!

7) Research before you go

Many National Parks and recreation sites do not allow dogs – make sure to verify this before you go! You don’t want to be leaving your pup in a hot car for extended periods of time due to a lack of research. As much as I love my dogs company, sometimes the responsible choice will be leaving your dog in the care of someone you trust if you can’t be there with them.

With a bit of prep and extra planning, your dog can really add a sense of companionship and other fun elements to your adventures! Get out there and explore with those waggly tails.