Hiking with a dog: rules, preparation and packing list

Before you lace up your boots, check the rules for the area you are hiking in. They differ between countries, and often within a country too. Germany is a good example.

Lead rules: in German states such as Berlin, Brandenburg and Hesse, dogs must be on a lead in woodland all year round. Bavaria has no general lead requirement in woodland, but municipalities or nature reserves can set stricter rules. Practical tip: check the website of the relevant nature park or municipality before every hike.

National parks and protected areas: in Germany, dogs must be on a lead in all national parks. In nature and bird reserves, they almost always have to be kept on a short lead, often no longer than two metres. Some areas, such as sensitive raised bogs or bird sanctuaries, are closed to dogs completely. Many other countries have similar rules, so check before you go.

Grazing animals: when cows, calves or suckler cows are in a pasture, keep your dog close. Walk through the herd calmly but briskly. If a cow attacks, let go of the lead if in doubt so your dog can get out of the way.

Consideration for others: put your dog on the lead in good time when hikers, children, cyclists or horse riders approach. On narrow sections, keep your dog beside you or at the edge of the path. Poo bags go in your pack, and full ones come home with you.

Wildlife and breeding season: in spring and early summer (roughly March to July), wild animals are especially easily disturbed. Many regions then have stricter lead rules, and hunters and foresters carry out more checks. Meeting a dog causes chamois, deer and ground-nesting birds considerable stress, even if you hardly ever see them.

Cable cars and public transport: almost all gondolas and cable cars in Germany and Austria require dogs to wear a muzzle. On German long-distance trains, larger dogs must be on a lead and muzzled. Ferries, for example to the German North Sea islands, often require a muzzle too. If your dog isn't used to one, you will have a problem at the boarding gate.

The right gear decides whether your hike is fun or stressful. Here is the complete packing list, split into three sections.

A rucksack with chest and hip straps keeps your hands free. Clothing in layers: breathable, suited to the weather, with a rain jacket to hand. Hiking boots should be sturdy and broken in, never new on the day. Sun protection means a cap, sunglasses and sun cream.

For food and drink, allow at least 1.5–2 litres of water per person, and much more on hot days. Add snacks such as nuts, bars or sandwiches. A map, GPS device or smartphone with an offline map and a power bank belong in every pack. Don't forget rubbish bags, tissues, ID and some cash.

A harness rather than a collar: a well-fitting harness with a back handle gives you control on steep sections and spreads the pull more evenly than a collar. Add a lead (2–3 m) and a short lead for narrow sections or protected areas. Still put on a collar with an ID tag (name, phone number) as a backup.

Water and food: your dog's own bottle or hydration system and a collapsible bowl. Dry food in small portions and treats for breaks. Plan drinking breaks every 30–60 minutes.

Comfort and safety: a light towel for drying off, a thin blanket or sleeping mat for breaks, and paw boots for sensitive paws or gravel paths. A reflective collar or flashing light for dusk. Take a muzzle if public transport, huts or cable cars require one. Get your dog used to it beforehand, not on the day of the hike.

Don't forget poo bags. Pack plenty, so you can pick up what other dogs have left behind too.

Pack two separate kits. Human medication can be toxic to dogs, and the other way round.

Even if your dog is bursting with energy, regular breaks matter. Stop briefly every 30–60 minutes and offer water. Frequent short breaks beat a few long ones. Take breaks away from narrow sections so you don't block the path.

Heat and paws: dogs regulate their body temperature almost entirely by panting and through their paws. They can barely sweat. Above 25°C, exercise becomes hard work, and above 30°C it can be dangerous. Choose woodland and meadow paths and avoid asphalt. Paw balm helps on stony ground, special dog boots in extreme terrain, but your dog has to get used to them first.

Stay on the trail: keep to marked paths to protect wildlife, nesting sites and sensitive vegetation. Cross-country shortcuts can disturb wildlife, cause erosion and lead to fines.

Staying overnight with a dog: many mountain huts in Germany and Austria allow dogs, and some even have separate sleeping spots for them. That isn't the case everywhere, so ask in advance. Bring a light blanket or mat for your dog to lie on in the hut. In the dining room, settle your dog under the table and don't let it sniff at other people's rucksacks or food.