Best Hiking Companions: 7 Ideal Dog Breeds

Many dog owners lead an active lifestyle, and some enjoy hiking as well. Hence, they desire a breed ideal for adventure. When it comes to hiking with your dogs, the physical features of your dogs matter a lot. If a dog is a good runner, it is not necessarily true that he is also well-suited for hiking.

Hiking needs a lot of energy and stamina and requires dogs with good temperaments. In this blog, you will see the 7 best dog breeds that are well-suited as hiking partners.

Here are those,

• Labrador Retriever

One of the most popular dogs in the world, Labrador Retrievers are always up for new adventures. They easily adjust to a variety of climates and terrain. Labradors also do well in cold climates and hot weather, provided you give them plenty of water during the trail. Labs have water-repelling coats which makes the ideal dogs to take a dip along with in water.

This breed is also good at water sports and running, and won’t ever bother you during your journey. Most Labradors are easy to train and are obedient as well. So you won’t face any trouble controlling them during your hike journey, once they are trained.

• Golden Retriever

Another popular dog across the world, the Golden Retriever is smart, loyal and maintains cheerfulness throughout their life. Originally bred for hunting, these animals will act as great companions on the trail. Their ancestors were used to performing the physically demanding task of retrieving hunter’s kill from the water, hence they are ideal dogs for adventurous hikes.

They also have a gentle personality, which makes them excellent partners for hiking.

• Bernese Mountain Dog

As the name itself suggests, Bernese Mountain Dogs are cut out for hiking in the mountains. They are believed to have originated in the Bernese Alps in Switzerland. Although they were used for drafting and as a drover for cattle in the cold Swiss Alps, these dogs enjoy demanding exercise and make excellent hiking companions.

However, dog owners should know that these dogs have genetically some health concerns, which include hip and elbow dysplasia.

• Siberian Husky

Siberian Husky was originally bred to pull sledges and carts long-distance in the rough Russian weather. An enduring dog breed, huskies make an ideal choice for those looking for a dog that will keep them entertained on long hikes. They are also naturally cold-resistant and are suitable for snowy mountain peaks.

• Beagle

If you are looking for a small breed dog who can accompany you on a long hike, look no further than Beagles. The predecessors of modern Beagles were used as hunting dogs in the Roman Empire, to track down prey for the hunters. They possess great strength and stamina, and with the right training, a Beagle will have no problem following you on a long hike.

• Greyhound

Elegant and playful, Greyhounds are also considered one of the fastest sprinters in the dog’s kingdom. Although these dogs can beat an Olympic sprinter easily, they can’t keep the pace for long. Yet, they will be more than happy to walk along at a regular walking pace. If Greyhounds are used to walking a good amount of distance regularly, they will act as great hiking partners for you.

However, they have a lean muscular build and very short fur, which can make them feel cold quite quickly. This is why you should insulate them with good winter clothes designed for dogs. 

• Border Collie

Arguably, the most intelligent in the entire dog’s kingdom, Border Collies are also excellent endurance athletes. Their exceptional intelligence makes them perfect dogs for navigating tricky terrains. They also have an impressive amount of energy that makes them ideal for long hikes and tough trekking. They are also well-behaved when they are engaged in a specific task, thus making them ideal hiking companions.

In Brief

Choosing the ideal hiking dog is more than just about the breed-it’s about finding a dog that complements your hiking lifestyle. Although good training and knowing your dog’s boundaries are important, there’s something else that is vital as well.

While hiking, you will face parasitic attacks and also the risk of injuries. This is why a measure like tick and flea prevention is necessary. Also, leash train your dog well, so that you have complete control of them while travelling.