Tips for Longer Hikes with Your Dog

Spring is a wonderful time to spend outdoors with your dog, and South Africa is brimming with natural beauty. Milder temperatures and vibrant landscapes create the perfect setting for hiking, trail running and exploring. To ensure that both you and your dog get the most out of the spring season, it’s important to be prepared with the right training, gear, nutrition, and safety measures. Here are some tips for a safe and active spring with your furry friend.

Build Up Your Dog’s Hiking Endurance

If your dog is not used to long hikes or intense activity, start with short sessions and gradually increase the length and intensity. Remember that carrying a backpack and navigating rough terrain can be challenging if they haven’t trained for it. Adjust the hike and pace to match your dog’s fitness level.

Bring the Right Gear for the Hike/Activity

• Comfortable Harness: A well-padded harness that distributes pressure evenly across your dog’s body. Ensure it’s properly adjusted to fit your dog.
• Leash: A sturdy leash. Consider using a hands-free leash belt for increased comfort over time.
• Reflective Gear and Lights: If you’re hiking in low light, use a reflective vest and a collar with lights.
• Jacket: If it gets chilly, a warm jacket may be necessary, especially for short-haired dogs. Carry an extra jacket in your pack for sudden weather changes.
• Booties: Use booties to protect paws from hot surfaces or rough terrain. Keep an eye out for signs of paw injuries.
• Backpack: If your dog is trained to carry a backpack, it provides extra space for food, water, and other essentials.
• Poop Bags: Clean up after your dog on trails and hiking areas.

Make sure to break in the gear a few times before embarking on longer hikes. Check your dog’s paws for cuts and injuries after each hike, as well as their body for any signs of soreness or muscle strain.

Prepare for the Trail and Weather Conditions

Plan your hike carefully before departure, especially considering how your dog will navigate the trail. Ensure the trail is dog-friendly and check for specific considerations such as livestock, steep sections, and water access. Monitor the weather forecast for rain, thunderstorms, or high temperatures. Avoid extreme weather that can be dangerous for both you and your dog.

Bring a First Aid Kit

Minor injuries and unexpected situations can occur at any time. A first aid kit can be crucial when accidents happen. Read our blog with first aid tips from veterinarians, and consider taking a first aid course to know what to do in stressful situations. Fin our vet guide to a first aid kit here.

Active Dogs Need More Food and Water

Increase Calorie Intake: On days or during periods of increased activity, adjust your dog’s diet accordingly. When your dog runs all day in the mountains or forests, they burn a lot of energy. An active dog may need as much as 4000 calories per day during these periods.

To ensure your dog gets enough calories and essential nutrients, you can either give more of their regular food or you can add some extra toppers. Additionally, bring some extra treats on the hike. Remember, dogs should not eat chocolate, so keep your snacks separate!

Water: Increased activity will also increase your dog’s water needs. Bring plenty of water for both you and your dog. A collapsible silicone bowl is perfect as it doesn’t take up much space and is lightweight.

Dog-Friendly Hikes in South Africa

South Africa boasts a variety of national parks, each offering unique landscapes and wildlife. Here is a selection of parks where you can take your furry friend for an unforgettable nature experience. Remember to check the specific rules for each park and choose hikes suitable for your dog’s health and experience. Familiarize yourself with the park guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. The AllTrails app is an excellent resource for trail maps, difficulty ratings, and weather conditions.

Table Mountain National Park

Table Mountain National Park offers a plethora of trails and hikes suitable for all fitness levels. Some of the popular dog-friendly trails include:

1. Pipetrack

The Pipetrack is a popular weekend outing for Capetonians. It offers beautiful views over Camps Bay and the hike mainly follows the contour of the mountain with minimal incline. Difficulty: Easy to moderate 9,5km trail

3. Panorama Loop

Located in Silvermine, Gate 1, the Panorama Loop offers beautiful views of the Cape Peninsula. You will find a variety of other hikes in the area as well. An Activity Card is required to walk your dogs here. Expect to encounter hikers and mountain bikers. Difficulty: Moderate to challenging 7km loop.

4. Echo Valley

Starting in Kalk Bay, this hike boasts beautiful views over False Bay. The trail has a steep incline at the beginning but becomes easier as you reach the top. Difficulty: Moderate 5km loop

Garden Route National Park

The Garden Route National Park is an iconic park along the Western Cape’s Garden Route. It is situated along some of the world’s most beautiful coastline.

1. Keurboomstrand Arch Rock

A beautiful beach walk with rocky terrain. You will need to pay an entrance fee to hike here. Difficulty: Easy 10km there and back. You can choose where to turn to make the hike as long or short as you would like. 

Vergenoeg Nature Reserve

Vergenoeg Nature Reserve is located on the slopes of the Magaliesberg, offering views of the Skeerpoort Valley and Hartbeespoort Dam. A pet-friendly park featuring over 200 bird species and 50 varieties of indigenous trees.

1. Vergenoeg Hiking Trail

A technical and steep hike that requires experience and fitness. The reward is spectacular views at the top. An entrance fee is required. Difficulty: Difficult 10km hike.

2. Nadias Peak

Offering views of the Hartebeespoort Dam, this is a challenging but fun hike. An entrance fee is required. Difficulty: a difficult 9,5km hike. 

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Hike

• Check the Rules: Each national park has its own rules for dogs. Make sure to read up on these before you go.
• Choose Suitable Routes: Select trails that match your and your dog’s health and fitness levels.
• Park Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with park guidelines and be prepared for changes in weather and terrain.
• Show Consideration: Respect the wildlife and other park visitors.

Conclusion

Springtime in South Africa offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors with your dog. With milder temperatures and vibrant landscapes, there are numerous trails and hikes to explore. By following the tips outlined in this guide—such as gradually building up your dog’s endurance, bringing the right gear, preparing for varying weather conditions, and ensuring proper nutrition and hydration—you can make the most of your hiking adventures. Always prioritize safety with a first aid kit and a pre-hike health check.