Hiking Washington’s beautiful trails is better with a furry, four-legged companion. Along with my enthusiastic hiking partner, Harrison the Goldendoodle, I have explored the Mount Baker Wilderness, the Columbia River Gorge and even the summits of Mount Pilchuck and Mailbox Peak.
Washington is among the most dog-friendly states in the country (per a March Forbes story, 61% of Evergreen State respondents have brought their pooch on vacation, the highest figure nationwide). Still, dog owners need to do some homework before bringing Fido on the trail.
To create a positive experience for you, your canine buddy and other folks on the trail or at the campground, here are nine do’s and don’ts to remember while adventuring with your dog this year.
Do check trail and park regulations before you visit
Do your research and only bring your dog where he or she is allowed.
While most of the Washington State Parks and Seattle Parks and Recreation systems allow dogs, there are some exceptions, for cultural and environmental reasons. Always check before you go.
As a rule of thumb, Washington State Parks communications consultant Meryl Lassen said state parks are amenable to leashed dogs. “Lots of people camp with their dogs, hike with their dogs or picnic with their dogs,” she said. “We just ask people to have their dog on leash at all times and have them trained to be a good trail partner.”
However, the three national parks in Washington (Mount Rainier, Olympic and North Cascades) largely prohibit pets altogether, outside parking areas.
Dogs are generally permitted on U.S. Forest Service trails, but there are exceptions to that rule, as well as areas where leashes are required. Similarly, most trails on Washington State Department of Natural Resources land require that dogs be leashed.
You can find a handy breakdown of these distinctions via the Washington Trails Association at wta.org.
Don’t hike with your dog unleashed where it’s prohibited
Even with the best-trained dog, you don’t know how your pet will respond to strange people, curious wildlife or other dogs. For the sake of the trail and others on it, only bring your dog where it’s allowed. Once there, follow leash rules. Your dog might be the biggest sweetheart to you, but can be an intimidating presence to others. Keep the leash on when required.
Do pick up your dog’s poop
This tip is important for environmental reasons, beyond the obvious ick factor. “Even if you are on land, hundreds of feet from water, the poop can drain into the water table and into rivers and lakes,” Lassen said. The hazards are real. “Domestic animal poop is different than wildlife poop. People say, ‘Deer do it! Elk do it! Bears do it! What about Fido or Spot?’ Well, they eat different food. Their stomachs digest things differently, and they’re exposed to different pathogens.”
Don’t let your pet swim in or drink from suspect water sources
Drowning is a concern here, especially around swift-moving rivers and streams. Also dangerous is the threat of giardia and other waterborne diseases. Keep your dog away from suspect water sources so they don’t come home with E. coli.
Do bring plenty of fresh water for your dog
It’s not just humans who get thirsty after a long day on the trail. I carry an extra water bottle for Harrison clipped to my pack and we take frequent stops, especially on hot days or on treks with considerable elevation gain. Be sure to keep the temperature in mind when hiking with your dog, too. Snacks and treats are great to have handy. A hydrated pet is a happy pet.
Don’t take your dog into dangerous areas
Understand your dog’s limits and the different hazards out there. “Dogs can also be seen as prey animals,” Lassen said. “If you’ve got a little Chihuahua and there’s an eagle sitting in a tree 100 feet up, that eagle is looking at your dog like food. Ditto cats.”
It’s always wise to read recent wildlife reports for animal activity before hitting the trail. I’ve always wanted to hike Cascade Pass with Harrison, but the bear activity around there has kept us away.
Do check for ticks, burrs and burrowing insects after your hike
Dogs can pick up more than you realize out in the woods, especially in areas with a lot of undergrowth. A nice brushing and cleaning after your adventure is the best way to keep your pup happy and healthy.
Don’t be afraid to draw boundaries with other people
Just because a stranger thinks your dog is cute and wants to pet them doesn’t mean that’s a good idea. Your dog might not like contact with folks they don’t know. Understand your dog’s own behavior patterns and treat others accordingly.
Do have fun!
Enjoy the trail together! Take lots of pictures! The memories you make together in the great outdoors will last you both a lifetime.
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