Hi! I 21F am planning on doing this trail next summer with my 4 year old dog Lola (Bernese mountain dog/bouvier mix), she is 90lbs. We backpacked together for the first time last summer and it was a total success. I’ve heard there are sections that will be tough for her but I am training to be able to lift her easier if needed, but she is pretty agile for the most part. Does anyone have any tips for training her to do elevation in the mean time? Or any tips for this trail? Thanks!

Guys please tell me any information that u know about what im gonna need to take my bichon dog with me to philippines … i have no idea what should i do or what im gonna need and how much money it can require

Hey y’all. I have been wanting a dog for years and finally feel like the timing is right. I’m happy to have found this sub because I love backpacking and camping and I am worried that having a dog will limit my ability to continue to do those things, so I’m very inspired by you all still getting after it! I live in Arizona and there are several trails and national parks that don’t allow dogs that I haven’t had a chance to explore yet. I think I’m worried that I’ll feel limited by having a dog in terms of what I am able to do adventure wise and am wondering if anyone could provide insight on your experience? I know there are also tons of trails that do allow dogs and I’m probably overthinking things, but I also want to make sure I’ve really contemplated the reality of having a dog to make sure I can fully commit to it.

Edit: wow! Thank you so much everyone for all of your insight. Much appreciated :)

Hi. So I have not gone backpacking (yet) with my dogs. We’ve done a lot of hiking and some camping. My question is, it seems like most people use a harness while backpacking. (Or maybe all the time?) Is there a reason this is preferred over a standard collar and leash combo?

In my experience, a harness just encourages pulling. Which takes more work, more strength, and more balance when compared to a collar.

Sure, like anything, I’m sure focused training could fix that.

But is there a reason a harness seems to be preferred?

***Edit to add that I use a Gentle Leader in areas where I know my dogs will be pulling, like on hikes. That way, they aren’t pulling me over and their necks and tracheas aren’t being hurt.

Thanks!!!