6 good reasons to go hiking with your dog

Man's best friend for over 15,000 years, with the domestication of the wolf, the dog is a pet found in many cultures, and in all types of social environments. Their unique diversity means there's something for everyone! Over 300 breeds, from a few hundred grams ... or kilos, small, large, with or without spots ..., as much as to say that a lifetime wouldn't be enough to adopt them all!

Today, one of man's greatest joys is to create real bonds with his animals, by breeding them, taming them ... Dogs, on the other hand, are real life companions, with whom anything is possible: accompanying the visually impaired, teaming up with security guards or the forces of law and order, getting around, or even detect diseases.

But, apart from working with these canine colleagues, we're also all fond of sports and leisure activities! And when it comes to fun, there are plenty of activities on offer; hiking is a natural choice for getting to know each other. So let's discover 6 good reasons to hike with your dog! Woof!*

* Go!

By hiking with your dog, you'll enjoy the outdoors without exhausting yourself ...

Going for a walk with your dog is a pleasure that you won't experience as an effort. By concentrating on his actions, on his way of apprehending the terrain, you advance at his pace, swallowing up the kilometers without noticing! The feeling of shortness of breath or physical effort takes a back seat, as you're no longer alone, and focus much less on the walk itself.

Another advantage: you leave room for the unknown and the surprising, and will therefore frequent habitual routes in a less monotonous and repetitive way. It's an opportunity to (re)discover your surroundings!

... and stay in shape with a fitness routine

These outings with your dog are therefore all opportunities for physical activity; running, fast, sporty, aquatic or Nordic walking, mountain hiking, trail ... the possibilities are numerous! What's more, looking after a dog involves being relatively diligent, offering the perfect opportunity to adopt a regular outing routine that fits your schedule ... and his!

The invigorating feeling of having maintained your figure by mixing business with pleasure can only encourage you to do it again!

Regular physical activity will provide you and your dog with a healthy dose of endorphins! You know, that happy hormone that has many benefits: anxiolytic, analgesic, anti-fatigue ...

Your dog will help you discover nature in a new way

Going out hiking in nature means discovering a living space, according to the seasons, the weather, events ... This is all the more true with a dog! If certain things catch your eye during an outdoor walk, that's without counting those that catch the eye (and nose!) of your four-legged companion (with respect for the environment, of course). Have fun paying attention to the way he walks, and you'll soon see that it's far from identical to your own.

You'll get to know each other better

It's far from trivial. Sharing a moment outdoors with your dog is a unique experience. For your part, going for a walk with your dog allows you to better perceive his behavior, with other walkers, other animals, or in an unfamiliar environment. It's a playful way to set limits or educate him, in a relaxed, light-hearted way (with rewards). As for the dog, it's the ideal moment for him to perceive you as a real guide, and to become aware of your common objective during the hike. Your enthusiasm will be his! Finally, if he gets too distracted, some minor training reminders may be in order.

This will help you reduce stress ...

Breathing in fresh air, adopting a more peaceful pace, getting closer to nature ... invite relaxation. Far from the cliché of the clearing and singing birds, know that outdoor colors (blue, green ...) have calming and soothing virtues! And that goes for your pooch too! So, on vacation or not, going for a walk with your dog is a must for your well-being.

... and hiking is "good fatigue" for your dog!

Yes, it's worth pointing out; after a good outing for two, chances are your walking companion will be ... tired! That's a good thing. Less nervous, he'll be much more tempted to take a nap than to go ripping through garbage cans or barking at the window! Not insignificant, is it?

If you're planning long hikes with your dog, be aware that some preparation may be necessary. You may want to train your pet to carry, or you may want to equip yourself to carry your dog on your back for certain sections of the route. In all cases, specialist advice is essential. In particular, a vet will be able to tell you the mileage limits that breeds can withstand, or what care to give their paws during the hike.

Whatever the case, before you head out, prepare your route well to avoid mishaps (impassable or forbidden areas for dogs, herd crossings...)!

Some visuals may have been subject to retouching.