How to Pick a Hiking Dog

Assess the situation. Define your skill level as a hiker. Decide the length of the hikes you are most likely to take, both in distance and in time.

Choose the locations where you are most likely to hike. Consider terrain, climate, possible changes in weather and seasons in which you will be hiking.

Consider your lifestyle outside of hiking. Keep in mind your other activities and whether a dog suitable for hiking will fit into them as well.

Keep in mind your budget. Make sure you have the finances for routine veterinary care, grooming, emergencies medical expenses, food, training, toys and other necessities.

Research the different groups of dogs. They include sporting, hound, working, terrier, toy, non-sporting and herding. Each group has been bred for different functions and they have similar traits and characteristics. The dog groups that would be most suitable for hiking would include sporting, hound and working groups.

Research specific dogs from the group you feel would best fit into your lifestyle. Recommended specific breeds are as follows: Bloodhounds (from the hound group; bred to track over different terrains in most conditions; very hearty; easily trained and eager to please; calm around other dogs and people), Saint Bernard (from the working group; bred for rescues in various terrains and climates; easily trained; high stamina; may be slower due to size; requires extensive coat care); Labrador retrievers (from the sporting group; bred to retrieve various game in various terrains and conditions; high stamina; easily trained), Weimaraner (from the sporting group; bred to hunt and retrieve in various conditions; easily trained, but can be willful; responds well to other dogs and people); Australian cattle dog (from the herding group; easily trained, if owner is consistent and offers generous amounts of praise; high energy/stamina; friendly with other dogs and people). Generally speaking, all of these dogs will get along with children and other pets. However, that may vary--depending on the individual dog.

Consider a mixed breed dog. By combining different breeds, the dog can offer a wonderful mixture of all the abilities and characteristics you want in a dog suitable for hiking. They are also less likely to have breed-specific health issues. There are thousands of dogs suitable for hiking in animal shelters and rescues.

Select a veterinarian for your dog. Speak with him/her about your desire to have a hiking dog. Ask for recommendations.

Visit animal shelters and animal rescues (many are breed specific). Discuss with staff the different dogs they have available and how they could fit into your lifestyle.

Select the specific dog that will fit into your lifestyle. Have a veterinarian check the dog for any health problems, especially hip problems, heart conditions and any problems with the dog’s feet and nails.

Have you dog altered. Spaying (for females) and neutering (for males) as soon as possible reduces the risk for cancers and other health risks, as well as behavior problems. You will also be helping to control the pet overpopulation problem.

Train your dog. If you are not familiar with training dogs, speak with your veterinarian about reputable trainers in your area. Be sure to let the obedience trainer you plan to hike with your dog. Depending on the trainer and class offered, additional training may be necessary.

Have fun hiking with you dog, always remembering to look out for dog’s safety and health. Spend time with your dog other than when hiking-- the dog is your new “non-human family member.”