Hiking with your dog: rules, preparation and packing list

Before lacing up your hiking boots, it is worth checking the regulations in your hiking area. Rules in Germany are far from uniform.

Lead requirements: In federal states such as Berlin, Brandenburg and Hesse, dogs must be kept on a lead in forests all year round. Bavaria has no general lead requirement in forests, but local rules imposed by municipalities or nature reserves may be stricter. Practical tip: before every hike, check the website of the relevant nature park or municipality.

National parks and protected areas: Dogs must be kept on a lead in all German national parks. In nature reserves and bird sanctuaries, dogs must almost always be kept on a short lead, often no longer than two metres. Some areas, such as sensitive raised bogs or bird reserves, are completely closed to dogs.

Grazing livestock: If cattle, young animals or cows with calves are in the pasture, keep your dog close at all times. Walk through the herd briskly but calmly. Important: if a cow attacks, let go of your dog if necessary so it can get out of the way.

Consideration for others: Put your dog on the lead in good time when hikers, children, cyclists or riders approach. On narrow sections, keep your dog beside you or at the edge of the path. Dog waste bags naturally belong in your rucksack, and full ones should be taken home again.

Wildlife and breeding seasons: In spring and early summer, roughly from March to July, wild animals are particularly sensitive to disturbance. Many regions impose stricter lead requirements at this time, and hunters and foresters carry out more checks. Encounters with dogs cause considerable stress for chamois, roe deer and ground-nesting birds, even when we barely see the animals ourselves.

Cable cars and public transport: Almost all gondolas and cable cars in Germany and Austria require dogs to wear a muzzle. On long-distance trains, larger dogs must be on a lead and wear a muzzle. Ferries, including those to the North Sea islands, also often require a muzzle. If your dog is not used to one, you may face a problem at boarding.

The right gear makes the difference between an enjoyable hike and a stressful one. Here is the complete packing list, divided into three sections.

Rucksack with chest and hip straps to keep your hands free. Clothing in layers: breathable, suited to the weather, with a rain jacket within easy reach. Hiking boots that are sturdy and broken in, not brand new on the day of the hike. Sun protection including a cap, sunglasses and sun cream.

For food and drink, allow at least 1.5–2 litres of water per person, and considerably more on hot days. Pack snacks such as nuts, bars or sandwiches too. A map, GPS device or smartphone with offline maps and a power bank belong in every rucksack. Do not forget rubbish bags, tissues, ID and some cash.

Harness rather than collar: A well-fitting harness with a back handle gives you control on steep sections and distributes pressure more evenly than a collar. Pack a lead (2–3 m) as well as a short lead for narrow passages or protected areas. Your dog should still wear a collar with an ID tag (name, telephone number) as a backup.

Water and food: Bring a dedicated water bottle or hydration system for your dog, plus a collapsible bowl. Pack dry food in small portions and treats for breaks. Plan water stops every 30–60 minutes.

Comfort and safety: A lightweight towel for drying off, a thin blanket or sleeping mat for breaks, and dog boots for sensitive paws or gravel paths. A reflective collar or flashing light is useful at dusk. Take a muzzle if it is required on public transport, in mountain huts or on cable cars. Extra tip: get your dog used to the muzzle beforehand, not on the day of the hike.

Do not forget poo bags. Pack plenty so you can pick up other dogs’ mess along the way too.

Pack two separate kits. Human medicines can be toxic to dogs, and vice versa.

Even if your dog is bursting with energy, regular breaks are essential. Stop briefly and offer water every 30–60 minutes. Short, frequent breaks are better than a few long ones. Take breaks away from narrow sections and avoid blocking the path.

Heat and paws: Dogs regulate their body temperature almost entirely through panting and their paws. They can barely sweat. At temperatures above 25 °C, exercise becomes strenuous; above 30 °C, it can be dangerous. Choose woodland and meadow trails where possible, and avoid stretches of asphalt. Paw protection creams help on stony ground, while specialist dog boots are useful in extreme terrain. Your dog needs to get used to them beforehand, though.

Stay on the paths: Stick to marked trails to protect wildlife, breeding sites and sensitive vegetation. Cross-country shortcuts can disturb wildlife, cause erosion and result in fines.

Overnight stays with a dog: Many mountain huts in Germany and Austria allow dogs, and some even offer separate sleeping areas for them. This does not apply everywhere, so ask in advance. Bring a lightweight blanket or sleeping mat for your dog to lie on in the hut. In the dining room, keep your dog under the table and do not let them sniff other people’s rucksacks or food.