Safely Hiking with Dogs

One of the greatest joys in life is the happy dance a dog performs when you ask, “Ready to go for a walk?” before clipping on their leash. The excitement of being on the trail with a curious little friend makes the trip outdoors all the more special.

Below are some tips for hiking safely with your dog.

Check the Trail Rules

Not all trails allow dogs, for a number of reasons including wildlife protection. Make sure you check with the Town or organization whose trail you plan to hike that dogs are allowed.

Know Your Dog’s Fitness Level

A BLT member leashes dog for their walk through Bell Farm and Eagle Pond.

It’s important to make sure your dog will be able to comfortably complete the trail you plan to hike. How old is our dog? Are they still playful, or do they tire easily? How large is your dog? According to Outdoors.org, “almost any breed or mixed breed over 40 pounds should make a good hiker-dog.” This doesn’t mean your smaller dog won’t be able to hike a trail (especially if it’s relatively flat), but it’s important to make an honest assessment before embarking (get it?) on an intense hike. And don’t forget to pack water for you AND your dog!

Trail Manners

It’s important to make sure your dog has good trail manners, and that you do, too! Trail manners include:

• Keeping your dog leashed, and moving aside for other hikers you encounter on the trail;

• Packing any dog refuse and taking it back to a trash can or taking it home with you to dispose of properly (dog poop disturbs the environment as it contains high levels of nitrogen, a main cause of toxic algal blooms, and harmful bacteria that can make other dogs and wildlife sick);

• Keep your dog on the trails, and do not allow it to disturb plants or wildlife;

• If you’re hiking in a group, keep the number of dogs to 2 or fewer. Larger groups become a pack and can intimidate other hikers;

• If your dog is very protective or aggressive towards other people or animals, it may be best to keep them at home.

Leash Your Dog

All Town of Barnstable and BLT properties require that dogs are leashed, if they are allowed on that particular trail. There are a number of important reasons to leash your dog, including:

• You’re ensuring your and your dog’s safety by having them in sight and out of reach of poison ivy patches, ticks, and other sticky situations (and they won’t disturb wildlife, meaning you may spot some special creatures later on);

• You’re keeping your dog away from animals who may not be friendly, including other dogs;

• You’re making the trail feel welcome for other people, including those who may not want to be approached by an animal on their walk, are unsteady on their feet, or are nervous at the site of unleashed dogs.

Thank you for following helping us keep the trails a welcome place for everyone!