Want to go hiking with your dog? First, ask yourself a few questions. Ask them of your dog,too. What exactly do you want to do? Do you want to just go a walk with your pooch at the local park or do you want to backpack in the wilderness for a week or two? What kind of dog do you have? Can he/she carry all of it's gear or will it just be a traveling companion and you have to haul it's supplies?Are you ready for that? Very important!! What is your dogs temperment? Do you enjoy his company at home? If not, you won't like him on the trail. Can he handle all the stimulation that comes with the 'great outdoors'? Or will he go nuts smelling every rock and tree? Why do you want your dog along? Is it for his companionship or to help you carry your gear? Or maybe you want him along for a little protection and security? Now that you have answered those questions honestly you probably have a better idea of how to start. Preparation and training are the keys. We go hiking with our newfoundlands because we enjoy their company. They add alot to our walks. Their extra sensitivity to sound, smells and sights add so much to every outing.  "A veteran dog does not need instructions. Once the pack is on his back, he and you are on a plane where speech is not necessary unless an unusual circumstance arises." (quote from Taking your Dog Backpacking) But this is only because they are well trained. And the earlier you start that training the better. True, you can work with an older dog and turn him into a good hiking companion but the best hikers are those that start as puppies. Eventually, hopefully, your dog will become your full partner, drawing your attention to flora and fauna you may have missed,  watching over you as you negotiate that tricky part of the trail and coming forward to help out if needed, and  alerting you to the presence of bear or other hikers but with no malice or beligerence toward anyone. Puppy Training Gear Older Dog Training On the Trail ! Hiking Photos  Links & Sources List of Dog Packs Make your Own Dog Pack All materials (graphics, writings, recipes) at this site not otherwise credited are Copyright © 1999,2000 Dominique/Newf Goodies. All rights reserved. The images and writing on these pages are not to be copied, uploaded or transferred to another website for any purpose without permission.