Alpha

      Your dog’s world already revolves around you. Expand his orbit to include adventures together outdoors, and the bond between Alpha and animal can grow even stronger. Imagine the effect that would have on your dog’s training.

      Exercise

      Even with four legs to stand on, every extra pound weighs heavily on your dog’s health. In breeds prone to joint or heart problems, weight issues or obesity are more dangerous still.

      Head for the hills (at your dog’s pace) to shed unwanted pounds and keep your friend fit.

      Food

      Chow, wow, wow. Your dog never misses a meal. But a healthy diet must include food for thought as well.

      The sights, smells, sounds, and experiences of the trail nourish your dog’s gray matter in ways that kibble can’t.

      Veterinarians, trainers, owners, and dogs unanimously agree that loved, nourished, well-exercised dogs are healthier, happier, and better behaved. Good hikes make good dogs.

      Kids, dogs, and the pack as a whole agree that good hikes are made great with the addition of everybody’s best friend.

      CHAPTER 3

      SOME DOGS ARE MOUNTAIN GOATS

      — Others Just Enjoy a Good Hike !—

      Before you hit the trail, you have to ask yourself, “Just what kind of animal do we have here?” As Alpha, it’s your responsibility to know your dog’s unique abilities and limitations. Consider stamina, health, and physical build carefully before hiking off in the wrong direction.

      Circle the Traits that Describe Your Dog

      Tally Your Selections, and Then Use the Following Pages to Choose the Type of Trails that Suit Your Pal Best

      ______ Green

      ______ Blue

      ______ Black

      If Your Dog Is Looking Green

      COUCH POTATO

      If the traits that describe your dog are primarily green, chances are that he or she will prefer a gentler hike or need special consideration along the way.

      LAPDOG The dog that prefers warming laps to running laps obviously will prefer shorter hikes with frequent breaks.

      PUG NOSE The same goes for the pug-nosed pooch. Boxers, bulldogs, Pekingese, and pugs, for example, have flatter snouts that make breathing and self-cooling much more difficult. Technically referred to as brachycephalic, these broad-skulled, short-nosed dogs are especially vulnerable to the dangers of heat stroke. Protect yours by setting a slow pace and taking frequent stops.

      WEE WAGGER Starting out with a pup? Introduce her to hiking on soft, short nature trails close to home. For dogs younger than 12–14 months, long, rigorous hikes can damage still-growing joints and bones.

      OLD FELLER Older dogs also appreciate some babying to accommodate their senior stamina, achy joints, and other health conditions that can come with age. Give the old guy every advantage. If arthritis slows your pack from the get-go, invest in a lightweight ramp that allows your dog easy access to the car, or stick to easy paths close to home.

      Short, interesting hikes with frequent rests beat staying home alone any day.

      Your dog would climb mountains to please you, even if it wasn’t so much fun. Just make sure that you don’t bite off more than your dog can chew.

      Less active dogs should start slow—working their way up from the evening stroll to brisk walks and greater distances before doing any serious hiking.

      To avoid injury and maximize the fun, dogs and humans alike need to be well exercised and in good physical condition before bagging the summit.

      SHORT, STUBBY LEGS SHORT LEGS work harder to keep up with the pack, and dainty paws will find steep or rocky paths a challenge at any pace. Be prepared with a Plan B should your pup poop out before you do. A backpack-style pet carrier may be a worthwhile accessory for your smallest hikers.

      Petite Paws

      SHOWING SKIN Can you see skin through your dog’s fur/hair? Dogs with thin coats and light-colored hair are more sensitive to the sun, as are breeds with a pink or dappled nose. PINK NOSE Before you head out, ask your veterinarian to suggest the best ways to protect your dog from sunburn. Shoot for morning hikes to avoid some of the heat and sun, and take frequent water breaks in the shade.

      Remember your manners. If your young pup hasn’t mastered basic obedience commands and social skills, you’re likely to run into trouble on the trail.

      Training outdoors, with all its natural distractions, is a must. Sidewalk encounters and regular doggy play dates (on and off her own turf) also prepare your pet for peacefully crossing paths with others.

      If your dog is accustomed to voicing her excitement, remember that backcountry barking disturbs hikers and wildlife alike. Teach your pal to bark on command, so she’ll also understand a firm “No barking” on the trail.

      LONG, FLOWING MANE Perhaps your dog wears her hair long and loose. As you praise your pal for her super stamina and marvelous trail manners, check her hair carefully for burrs, debris, and the well-hidden tick. Such souvenirs you can do without!

      STHE BASENJI IS THE ONLY DOG BREED THAT CAN’T BARK.

      If daring and dexterity are qualities exemplified in your particular pooch, you may find that your dog enjoys rock hopping and bouldering as much as you. Just make sure to look before he leaps. Loose rocks, mossy crossings, and natural crevices can twist and trap slender legs and paws.

      Trails carpeted with loose, uneven rock (called scree) can be tough on your dog’s dogs, so check toes and footpads often, and watch your dog for limping or discomfort.

      Dogs will often soldier on when they should be taking R & R. If necessary, make the command decision to fall back and safeguard your heroic troops.

      True-blue Companions

      True-blue companions can go the extra mile with their longer legs; larger, more stable paws; and a coat that provides natural sun protection.

      Although

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