Hiking Supplies for Dogs: The Complete Trail Guide

When warm weather is on the horizon, many of us start looking forward to heading outdoors with our canine companions.

Not only do dogs make excellent outdoor activity partners, but hiking with your dog is also a great way to burn off excess energy, engage and stimulate their minds in new environments, and even socialize with other dogs and pet parents.

As with most outings, you'll both get the most from the experience if you're properly prepared. To help you make the most of it, we teamed up with Backcountry to get the most benefits out of your hike.

According to Jani H., a Backcountry Gearhead, "Hiking with a dog is great because you both get to explore a new place, plus moving in the same direction as a group triggers pack drive and builds your relationship."

Ready to hit the trails? Check out what you need to know before your hike with you canine companion.

Preparing for hiking with your dog

1. Choosing the right length and time

The first time you hike with your dog shouldn't be an epic, all-day trek. Plan on spending a pleasant hour or so on the trail, and if you live in an area where daytime temperatures tend to be warm, schedule your adventure for a time of day when temperatures are more likely to be mild. Remember that you'll both need reflective gear if you'll be hiking when it's dark.

Keeping it short on your first few hikes will help you get a feel for your pet's endurance level, even if their breed is known for outdoor activity. Puppies whose bones have not yet developed should stick to short, easy hikes for the timebeing. Instead of focusing on distance, you can work on socialization, mental stimulation and mastering skills like walking nicely by your side on a leash.

2. Choosing the right hiking trail

No matter where you go, check the rules before you head out—although some National Parks are pet-friendly, many do not allow dogs on their trails for their own protection as well as that of local wildlife. Many national forests and state parks, on the other hand, allow furry friends as long as they are kept on leashes. Leash length rules may vary, so check the rules before you pack.

Jani H. recommends looking into the weather conditions and researching the natural wildlife before picking a trail. "Dogs are fairly resilient, but look out for changing weather conditions. They are susceptible to heatstroke and hypothermia. Also, storms can make dogs with normally predictable recall spook, so consider leashing up. Check for wildlife dangers—are you in rattlesnake territory? Moose? Know what to look out for," she says.

3. Training your dog for the hike

If your dog's an inexperienced hiker, start their training by taking increasingly long walks around the neighborhood to build up endurance. Look for opportunities to walk on different types of terrain. As an added benefit, this also helps toughen up the skin on the bottom of your pet's feet, which is helpful even if you do choose to protect your pup with walking booties.

As Jani H. suggests, "Consider their conditioning - don’t suddenly take a sedentary dog on a strenuous hike. Also, paw conditioning - if they haven’t spent much time on the type of terrain you’ll be on, start with small distances or consider booties to protect their paw pads."

Packing dog hiking essentials

Taking the right supplies along on a hike can make the difference between having a wonderful time and potentially endangering your pet. Being caught unprepared may mean that you'll have to cut the fun short, so be sure to know what you should be packing and why.

Must-Have Hiking Supplies for Dogs

Before you hit the trail, packing the right gear can mean the difference between a great adventure and an emergency cut short. Here's everything your dog needs for a safe, comfortable hike — from the first mile to the last.

Water and a Portable Bowl

Hydration is the single most important thing to plan for. Dogs can't sweat the way humans do, and they lose water quickly through panting, especially on warm or strenuous trails. Bring more water than you think you'll need — a general starting point is about one ounce of water per pound of body weight per day, though activity level and temperature will raise that number significantly. Pack a collapsible silicone bowl or a bottle with a built-in dispenser so your dog can drink easily at rest stops. Never rely on trail streams or puddles as your primary water source; standing water can harbor bacteria, parasites, and algae that cause serious illness https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control.

A Well-Fitted Leash and Harness

Most trails — and nearly all national parks — require dogs to be on a leash at all times. A 4–6 foot leash gives you control without restricting your dog's movement. For hikes with elevation changes or rocky terrain, a no-pull harness distributes pressure more evenly than a collar and gives you a handle to assist your dog over obstacles. Make sure the fit is snug but not restrictive: you should be able to slip two fingers under any strap.

Current ID Tags and a Microchip

Trails are unfamiliar environments, and even well-trained dogs can bolt at a surprising sound or scent. Your dog should wear a collar with an up-to-date ID tag listing your name, phone number and any relevant medical information. A microchip is a permanent backup that dramatically improves the odds of reunion if a tag is lost — and it's worth confirming the registration is current before you leave home.

Dog-Specific First Aid Kit

Accidents happen on the trail — cut paw pads, bee stings, minor lacerations and splinters are all common. A dog-specific first aid kit should include:

• Gauze pads and self-adhesive bandage wrap — to cover cuts or protect injured paws
• Antiseptic wipes — for cleaning wounds before bandaging
• Tweezers or tick removal tool — ticks are active in many trail environments year-round
• Blunt-tipped scissors — for cutting fur away from a wound or trimming bandage material
• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) — only at your veterinarian's recommended dose; consult your vet before the trip about whether this is appropriate for your dog
• Your vet's phone number and the nearest emergency animal clinic address — look these up before you go, not after

If your dog sustains an injury beyond basic first aid, stop hiking and seek veterinary care. When in doubt, always consult your veterinarian.

Trail-Ready Food and High-Value Treats

Active hiking burns significantly more calories than a normal day at home, so your dog may need extra fuel on longer outings. Bring your dog's regular dry dog food portioned for the trip, plus a little extra for high-output days. High-value dog treats serve double duty on the trail — they reward good behavior and provide a quick energy boost at rest stops. Keep treats to no more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake even on active days. Store all food in a sealed, odor-proof bag to avoid attracting wildlife.

Paw Protection

Rocky, hot, or chemically treated surfaces can damage your dog's paw pads quickly. Depending on the terrain and season, consider:

• Dog booties — offer the most complete protection from sharp rocks, hot pavement and trail salt
• Paw wax or balm — creates a protective barrier and helps prevent cracking on dry or abrasive surfaces
• Post-hike paw check — inspect between the toes for burrs, cuts, swelling or embedded debris after every outing

Waste Bags

Leave No Trace principles apply to dog waste too. Pack more bags than you expect to use, and always pack out what you pack in. Many trails are closed to dogs specifically because of waste issues — doing your part keeps trails open for everyone.

Weather-Appropriate Gear

• Hot weather: A cooling bandana or vest can help your dog regulate body temperature on warm days. Watch closely for signs of overheating — excessive panting, drooling, stumbling or reluctance to move — and stop immediately if you notice them https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control.
• Cold weather: Short-coated, small or senior dogs may need a insulating jacket on cold-weather hikes. Hypothermia is a real risk for dogs in wet, windy or freezing conditions.
• Rain: A waterproof dog jacket keeps your dog warmer and makes the post-hike cleanup much easier.

Quick-Reference Packing Checklist

A little preparation goes a long way. When your dog is well-equipped, you're both free to enjoy the trail — and that's what hiking together is all about.

Nice-to-Have Hiking Supplies for Dogs

The essentials keep your dog safe — but the right extras make the trail more comfortable for both of you. None of the items below are mandatory, but each one solves a real problem you're likely to encounter on longer or more rugged hikes.

Comfort & Protection

• Dog boots – Rocky, hot, or icy terrain can cut and abrade paw pads. Boots add a layer of protection on sharp scree, sun-baked asphalt approaches, or snow-packed trails. Introduce them at home before the hike so your dog has time to adjust to the feel.
• Paw balm – Even without boots, a conditioning balm applied before and after the hike can help soothe paw pads exposed to rough ground, salt, or dry heat.
• Dog-specific sunscreen – Light-coated and pink-skinned dogs (think white Bull Terriers or short-haired Vizslas) can sunburn on exposed ridgelines. Use only a formula made for dogs — many human sunscreens contain zinc oxide or salicylates, which are toxic to dogs if licked https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control. Ask your veterinarian which product is appropriate for your dog.
• Cooling vest or bandana – On warm-weather hikes, an evaporative cooling vest or a simple wet bandana around the neck can help your dog regulate body temperature during rest breaks.
• Dog goggles (Doggles) – Useful for dogs with eye sensitivities or those who run through dense brush. Protects against UV, debris, and wind.

Navigation & Visibility

• Dog-specific GPS tracker – A collar-mounted GPS tag lets you locate your dog quickly if he slips off-lead in unfamiliar terrain. Especially valuable in off-leash wilderness areas.
• LED safety light or blink light – Clip one to your dog's collar or pack for early-morning starts, late finishes, or low-visibility weather. Makes your dog visible to other hikers, cyclists, and horses on the trail.
• Reflective vest – Doubles as a visibility aid and a lightweight layer of warmth on cool mornings.

Nutrition & Hydration Extras

• Collapsible water bowl – Lightweight silicone bowls fold flat and weigh almost nothing. Bring one dedicated to water and one for trail snacks or a mid-hike meal.
• Electrolyte supplement for dogs – Extended hikes in heat can deplete electrolytes. Dog-formulated supplements (never human sports drinks, which may contain xylitol or excess sugar) can help support hydration on long outings https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control. Consult your veterinarian before adding any supplement to your dog's routine.
• High-value trail treats – Small, calorie-dense treats reward good trail behavior, reinforce recall cues, and give your dog a quick energy boost at rest stops. Keep treats to no more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake, even on active days.
• Portable dog food container – A lightweight, sealable container keeps dry dog food fresh and odor-contained so it doesn't attract wildlife.

First Aid & Recovery

• Canine first aid kit – A trail-ready kit should include gauze, self-adhesive bandage wrap, antiseptic wipes, tweezers (for thorns or splinters), and a foil emergency blanket. Many pet-specific kits are sized to fit inside a daypack.
• Tick removal tool – Wooded and grassy trails are prime tick habitat. A dedicated tick remover or fine-tipped tweezers lets you extract ticks promptly and correctly. Talk to your veterinarian about appropriate tick prevention before hiking season begins https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control.
• Styptic powder – Stops minor bleeding from cracked pads or broken nails quickly — a small container earns its weight on any trail.
• Extra waste bags – Pack out more than you think you'll need. Leave No Trace principles apply to dog waste on every trail.

Gear for Your Dog to Carry

• Dog backpack / saddlebag – A well-fitted dog pack lets a healthy, conditioned adult dog carry his own water, collapsible bowl, and snacks — reducing your load. Start with an empty pack on short hikes to let your dog get used to the fit, then gradually add weight. Never load more than 25% of your dog's body weight, and consult your veterinarian if your dog has any joint or back concerns.

Pro tip: Before any new piece of gear hits the trail, do a short test walk at home or in the backyard. Boots, packs, and cooling vests all need a break-in period — and your dog will thank you for the preview.

Backcountry Dog Hiking Favorites — Exclusively at Petco

When the trail gets serious, your dog's gear needs to keep up. Petco carries a curated selection of backcountry-ready hiking supplies built for pet parents who venture beyond the well-marked path — from summit scrambles to multi-day wilderness trips. Here's what to pack from our exclusive and Petco-only assortment before you and your dog hit the backcountry.

Essential Gear to Grab Before You Go

• Dog hiking packs and saddlebags — Let your dog carry a share of the load. Look for padded, adjustable harness-style packs with reflective trim and side-release buckles. Fit matters: a pack should sit behind the shoulders and never restrict natural movement. Start with an empty pack on shorter trails so your dog can adjust before you add weight.
• Collapsible trail bowls — Lightweight silicone bowls fold flat and clip to a pack or lead. Bring one dedicated to water and one for food to keep things clean on longer outings.
• Portable water bottles with built-in dispensers — Hydration is one of the most important factors in trail safety for dogs. A squeeze-top bottle with an attached trough lets your dog drink without wasting a drop — critical when water sources are scarce.
• Dog hiking boots and paw protectors — Rocky terrain, hot granite slabs and sharp scree can all damage paw pads. Rugged rubber-soled boots with hook-and-loop closures stay secure on uneven ground. Introduce boots at home before the trail so your dog is comfortable wearing them.
• High-visibility and GPS-enabled collars — Backcountry trails mean lower foot traffic and fewer landmarks. A brightly colored collar with an ID tag and an attachable GPS tracker gives you peace of mind if your dog gets curious off-trail. Always make sure ID tags are current before any hike.
• Trail-specific leads — A hands-free bungee-style lead or a short traffic lead gives you control on narrow switchbacks and scrambles without tangling underfoot.
• Compact first-aid kits for dogs — Backcountry incidents happen far from help. A dog-specific kit should include gauze, self-adhesive bandage wrap, antiseptic wipes, tweezers for ticks and a foil emergency blanket. Familiarize yourself with the contents before you need them, and consult your veterinarian about any prescription items to add for remote trips.
• High-energy trail treats — Sustained activity burns more calories, and a small, protein-rich treat is a practical reward and a quick energy boost on the ascent. Keep treats to no more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake even on active days.

A Quick Gear Checklist for Backcountry Hikes

Vet note: Before any strenuous backcountry outing, check that your dog is current on vaccinations, flea and tick preventives and heartworm prevention — especially in wilderness areas where wildlife contact is more likely. Your veterinarian can also advise on whether your dog's age, breed or joint health makes extended elevation gain a good fit right now.

Shop the full collection of backcountry hiking supplies and dog food formulated for active dogs at Petco — because the best adventures are the ones you take together.

You and your dog are now ready to get out there and have a great time. Check out our other blog posts about getting the most from sharing your home, heart and life with a canine companion.

Dog Hiking Supplies Checklist: Must-Haves vs. Nice-to-Haves

Use this checklist before every trail outing. The "must-have" column covers safety and basic welfare; the "nice-to-have" column makes the experience more comfortable for both of you.

Vet note: Before your dog's first strenuous hike — especially if he is a puppy, a senior or a brachycephalic breed — schedule a wellness check. Your veterinarian can confirm he is physically ready for trail activity and recommend parasite prevention suited to your region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hiking supplies do I absolutely need for a dog? At minimum, bring fresh water, a collapsible bowl, a secure lead, waste bags, a current ID tag and a basic dog first-aid kit. These items cover hydration, safety and trail etiquette on virtually any outing. Everything else on the checklist above adds comfort and convenience.

How much water should I bring for my dog on a hike? Water needs vary by size, temperature and exertion level, but a general starting point is roughly 8 oz of water per 20 lbs of body weight per hour of moderate activity — more in heat or at elevation. Never rely on streams or ponds as a primary source, since natural water can carry parasites like Giardia. When in doubt, pack more than you think you need and offer water every 15–20 minutes on the trail.

Are dog booties necessary for hiking? Booties are not required on every trail, but they are strongly recommended on sharp scree, hot pavement, icy terrain or any surface your dog has not been conditioned to. If your dog is new to booties, introduce them at home over several short sessions before the hike so he is comfortable wearing them on the trail.

How do I know if my dog is too hot on the trail? Watch for heavy, rapid panting, excessive drooling, a bright red tongue, stumbling or reluctance to keep moving — these can be early signs of heat stress. If you notice any of these, stop immediately, move to shade, offer water and cool the paw pads and belly with water. Contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic right away if symptoms do not improve quickly. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) can also advise on environmental emergencies. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Can I let my dog drink from streams or lakes on the trail? It is safest to avoid it. Natural water sources can harbor Giardia, leptospirosis bacteria and algae toxins that are harmful to dogs. Carry enough clean water for the full outing and use a portable filter if you anticipate needing to supplement on longer trips. Ask your veterinarian about leptospirosis vaccination if you hike frequently in areas with standing water.

What plants and wildlife hazards should I watch for on the trail? Hazards vary by region, but common concerns include rattlesnakes, moose, coyotes, foxtail grass seeds (which can embed in paw pads and ears) and toxic plants such as mushrooms and certain berries. Research the specific trail and region before you go, keep your dog on a lead, and consult the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center if your dog ingests an unknown plant or substance. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

This article was created with assistance from AI tools and reviewed for accuracy by Petco's content team.