4:20 is a BIG tip.... I can't tell you how many times someones dog has ran up to mine and the owner yells "DON'T WORRY THEY"RE FRIENDLY" and while I'm in control of my dog "THAT'S GREAT, MINE ISN'T"! My dog is literally trained to protect against things that catch me off guard when I'm hiking, that's why I'm in the wilderness with her.... Not a dog park. I love dogs, but I have a responsibility to keep my dog safe as well.
Excellent tips on hiking with your dog. All of your advice is spot on. I've had my dog for 2.5 years (he's 3 now) and we've been walking/hiking together that whole time. He has become the best partner on and off leash. Lots of energy and also very well behaved. Thanks for posting this.
Thanks for the video and your AT experience. I have hiked a lot of miles with my 50 pound hound mix. I appreciate your honesty. To be honest a lot of RUclips videos preach a lot of stuff that in the real world is just not happening. Sleeping with your food is way more common than most will admit. Especially with thru hikers. I am older mid 60s and for decades no one I knew ever hung their food. I never even knew I was supposed to. I do now but to he honest not all the time. The last two years my dog Maggie and I hiked the 270 miles of the Long Trail, she is off leash most of the hike but very well trained. She returns to be if she hears anyone on the trail and I always put her back on leash or if we are near a major summit with people. I have actually never had anyone give me crap for hiking with my dog. I train year round with my dog so she is super fit. It’s strange that people would think what you are doing is bad but they have no issue with dogs getting fat and walking around their neighborhood for short walks. My dog loves the trail and she has no problem walking 15 to 20 miles for days on end. My dog does not carry a pack because she had issues with her pack running under her front legs. I regret not getting the pack you mentioned when I had the chance. I think she is out of business. Her website gots to error 401 now. I did purchase a DCF dog bowl from her. We are doing the Colorado Trail late this summer. I have replaced my Zpacks pack with a more robust Waymark pack because of all of my dog’s food and gear. For me the only issues I have with hiking with my dog is carrying all her food and drying her up at night if the weather is bad. I only sleep in shelters if no one is there or we have actual made friends with those staying and they are dog people. The biggest reason I have seen for people getting off the trial with their dogs is the dogs paws getting hurt. I also have always had to pay up to stay in a hotel with my dog. 30 to 40 dollars more. It’s surcharge. Take care and enjoy
Thank you so much for this video!!! It's incredibly helpful! I'm thinking about taking my dog with me on the PCT this year and it's soo hard to find information about this topic! I don't want to put him in danger and consider every possible scenario. Is there anyone who's going SOBO 2023 with a dog?
Super informative. Thank you! And I agree with the last part...I'm so lucky that I've had influential people in my life, and you, help me come back to my knowing and trusting myself.
7:31 Hey there, My dog hikes with me everywhere, he lives for the trail. Hogan wears a basket muzzle for various reasons as he can be unpredictable with other dogs. It’s also a liability issue, if he were to run off he wouldn’t be able to bite someone.
Watched the video, read the comments. My own observations. First, bravo. It's not that you did everything right, but we learn much by experience and, when we are wise, through other people's experience, I am grateful that you did this, and that your reported on it -- the good, the bad, and the ugly. Bravo to you. Second, on the negative and even nasty comments (fortunately, few in number), do the right thing: ignore them. You did your hike, you did good stuff, you also made mistakes, and you clearly acknowledge lessons. The arm-chair "you're irresponsible, blah, blah, " are just mental incompetents. Third, okay, my own critique -- but not, I hope, nasty or personal. I have done dog training for a very long time, in competitive obedience and for my own back country experience. And my dogs have been and are Airedales which in the dog world, the obedience world, is usually accompanied by "I'm sorry" (or in competition: "oh great, there's an Airedale; I won't be in last place"). On the other hand, I've never done more than a ten day in country with a dog so I watched your video to see and experience your hike, and your dog's hike. On obedience: as I implied at least, my standards for dog obedience are likely different than yours -- no approbation for me or sin to you, we're just different. Still, if I were taking lessons from "our" different experiences, I'd probably emphasize a couple things. 1. A solid, no excuses, recall. That's pro forma in the competition world, but it becomes critical in the back country. I worked my dogs on no excuses recall, and drop on recalls, because in my view it's life or death in the back country (my Airedales and I did much of our backpacking in the Pasayten Wilderness and in other grizzly environments). 2. I really liked your emphasis on dog behind. In normal obedience, it's a side by side heel which is clearly contraindicated on the trail. 3. Ticks and parasites: use something like Advantix or some other topical. I took my young Airedale to the Hunting and Working Airedale Nationals (just for the experience; he doesn't hunt and I don't work, so it was just for fun), and Ohio like much of the East is rife with ticks (I'm in Colorado; ticks are a problem but nothing like the East). A topical works best. 4. Distance. I was impressed. Having watched Jessica Mills on Homemade Wanderlust, I take to heart her explicit and your implicit "walk your dog's hike). Dogs, unlike people and more like most animals, don't do this stuff for fun. Instinctively, a dog will conserve calories. Plus, physiologically, they are set up for a different physical experience. Based on my own experiences with two Airedales, I rather suspect your dog could have and would have handled the rougher northern terrain better than you or certainly better than you conjectured. Still, your caution was and is commendable -- the pointless critics to the contrary. 5. Turbo pup is not just a snack. It can be, and I have used it as, the meal. It is far more concentrated than kibble, even the highest protein kibble. Well, that's more than enough of my commentary. I'll likely re-watch your video a couple more times. It is packed with useful comments, information, and, yes, mistakes. As a political theorist I once knew put it: Good judgment is the result of experience which often comes from bad judgment. I take knowledge from your experience. Thank you.
WOW, i love how thoughtful this comment is! Thank YOU for sharing all of this information with me. Now that I have two dogs, things have DEFINITELY changed since then. I appreciate your feedback and will take it into consideration next time I go on a long hike with my dog. BUT THANK you for your honesty and feedback. Means a lot to me! :)
Like the other commenter (from a year ago - I’m clearly late to the game), I really appreciate the time you put into these additional tips and how respectful you are! I’m wanting to start hiking in general (not a thruhike with my dog) and since she’s not a sporting/working dog, I’m trying to figure out the best way to “walk her hike.” Really appreciate the care and insight you put in this comment…. Just like I do for this video!
Thank you so much for doing this video!! I'm pretty severely disabled and am just getting started with backpacking (so far only going 1-3 miles on weekend trips). But my ultimate goal is to work up to long distance hiking. I have my Service Dog who provides mobility support, medical alerts, and medical response, and there is SO LITTLE information on how to keep him safe as well as proper trail etiquette. Also, REALLY appreciate that you didn't "register" Roo as a service dog--there's no legal registration process for service dogs, and people who do that just to bring their dogs places can severely harm real working teams.
Thanks for sharing your experience honestly and in detail. The big take-away for me is hike your dog's hike - with all that entails ; also that some people don't like dogs and are on their own healing journeys (can't understand why anyone wouldn't like dogs but that's a good reminder for a dog loverI).
Human Down vests for dog works like a wearable top quilt for them. Get a big enough size their arms fit in holes no tension. Pop it on In them tent at night don't zip it. Imo works better then the dog sleeping bags... Cheaper too
Just started doing the AT with my dog, this was a great video. We have hiked 100’s of miles together but this was some really info about the AT. Safe travels to you both
This was super helpful! My border collie and I are going to attempt the Colorado Trail (486 miles) in July. It will be our first thru hike! Would you consider making a video detailing all the gear you brought for your pup? Thanks for the great video! You have an awesome presence on camera!
AND I TOTALLY WOULD!!! :) but for now, here is a quick list: Groundbird Gear pack, she slept with me in my pad/sleeping bag, turbo pup food, first aid kit for dogs (wax for paws and bandages) and...... zip locks for food and water! :)
Great video I have watched it a few times. I have backpacking with as many as three dogs at a time previously, but it has been a while so I wanted to see a refresher course.. I liked that you kept emphasized that you ned to hike your dog's hike...I will honestly say I don't think I ever did that previousy but will be more mindful of dong that in the future. Thnaks again... Hopefully you will continue making making videos..peace
Fantastic video thank you!! I found a lot of useful information here and more than just advice, but hearing what you had to say about the northern half of the AT. Good to know!
great video. I really liked the content. looking for forward to move videos of yours. I also have never heard of those dpg packs you used so looking into those as well. Mainly been using ruffwear.
Thanks for the info!! I want to hike the AT with my dog! She’s an Australian cattle dog and she definitely has the energy and is great off leash. Pretends like other people and dogs aren’t even there, just slides right by them. Unfortunately, when in the house or a tent she barks at every. Little. Noise!! I really need to train that out of her.
Thanks for the video. I attempted in 2017 and I will be doing another this coming year except this time with my Australian Shepherd. I’ve been doing a lot of searching for 1st hand advice on thru hiking with a dog. Glad I saw your video. We had a least 1 dog in our bubble in ‘17 and from what I remember he did great. I was surprised about people coming up to you and “scolding” you about bringing your dog. Some people are so entitled. Ugh. Well thank you so much. If you have any more advice, I would love to listen. Sincerely, Whiskey n Cash
THANK YOU FOR THIS COMMENT! I hate that I am just now seein this...URG!! I will be back on here for frequently for now!! thanks for watching and I hope I can give more!!
On the AT not so much but out in cali in Kings Canyon I saw more bears bigger bears then I ever saw on the AT. I hung everything a bear might like high and far away from where we slept.
Very helpful video. Taking my ACD out for a 400 mile section of the PCT next month. I really dread having to deal with comments from ignorant/nosey people about my dog. Ugh!
I'm looking to do a big hike. Probably 1500km. My girls really good as long as she doesn't see a large animal rhen she's off for few minutes. Luckily as an amstaff she's not the fastest so she loses them and comes back. Anyone got any advice on how to train a dog not chase animals?
Thank you for this video! Great info, great attitude, great story! I've been debating taking my dog with me - this will really help me make a much wiser choice. 👍👍
The biggest consideration with large breed dogs is they are not finished growing for apex 2 years. Most of their growth plates close around 18 months. My advice is to not put a pack on them if they are younger than that abs to be careful you don’t over do it with strenuous terrain or a lot of stairs as theirs can effect the growth abs durability of their knees elbows and hips
Thank you so much for your very detailed and honest advice/experience! So much useful information! (Especially needing wax up to 5x/day, on leash/off leash, and that thru hikers don’t actually hang their food as much as it’s “officially” recommended). Super curious how hitchhiking worked with Roo (Rue?). Sorry people were so rude!
Not related to hiking with dogs, but just to add more support for the food-hanging question. My wife and I hiked the PCT in 2020 and never hung our food ... not once! I also don't remember seeing other hikers hanging their food. We did have a bear sniffing around our tent one morning while in the Sierras, but some shouts and arm-waving from us sent him on his way.
What is the dog behind you thing ? We hike with our dogs a lot and they are ALWAYS on a waist belted leash. But they are out 5-6 feet in front of us. When we pass people I usually short leash them and hold them by the closest handle or pull off the trail completely to let people go by.
My dog loves to be out in front of me too. When I hike on the PCT, my girl just walks directly behind me. She always wants to stop and sniff things and I end up constantly having to push her along. She figured out quick that it makes sense to walk behind me. That's also way more of a thing when she's got her backpack on. She knows! Once everyone is geared up and walking miles into the woods, a natural order of things develops. Mine prefers to walk behind me. The moment we're home she is back to normal though.
And if you teach the dog "heel" and "free" you won't have to readjust the leash. Behind in high distraction/dangerous areas Infront in free areas. Once that's trained into the pups life is so much easier.
People are wild-I'm surprised people gave you a hard time about hiking with your dog. Unless it's a pug who can't breath and whose eyes are popping out, most dogs love walkies and hikies!
Wolves chase elk twenty-miles or more in a day. Iditarod dogs pull a hundred-pounds each a hundred-miles per day for more than a week. In blizzard conditions. Dog has a purpose, it is not some helpless butterfly. Nobody loves the dog more than its owner. To pretend otherwise is virtue-signaling cowardice at the expense of both dog-owner and dog. There's nothing better than seeing a well-mannered dog on the trail.
This is my idea/plan: In another seven years or so, I want to walk across the US. I'll bring four huskies, and maybe a lab for other reasons, and two small carts, ontop of my pack. If each cart can be pulled by one husky, every two hours we'll take a break and switch dogs. I plan on going from New York to Chicago, Chicago to New Orleans, and from there turn west and eventually to Los Angles. When I'm in the South I'm planning on it being winter months so it won't be too hot. If I can take another year off of work I'll continue north to Seattle, then east to lake superior, southeast to Florida and then up the east coast and back home.
You'd be surprised by how cold CA can be during March. Right now its June and still pretty cloudy and windy althou not for long. But overall you should be fine weather-wise, since you will be carrying gear for all 4 season.
@@joanaphillips6290 but are you talking about southern California? Like around LA. From my understanding, that part of California experiences a Mediterranean climate (relatively dry, rain in the winter, and mild temperatures).
Your dog should have it's own backpack and carry it's own food, water, and toys. I just got a Blue Heeler puppy and plan on eventually taking him on the PCT when he's ready, probably in 2-3 years, so part of our training regime will include the harness vest, and getting used to carrying a load that mimics 10 days of food weight and a water bottle. I'll carry the toys so he can have extra food. One tip, make sure you're also giving your dog a food supplement while on trail (besides yourself). A super high quality multivitamin and mineral supplement should be a part of your possibles...
My wife and I are leaving next month to hike a 400 mile section of the PCT (in Washington) and will be bringing our 2 year old blue heeler. We hiked 2,000 miles of the trail back in 2020 so feel well prepared to do this (relatively) short section with our dog. Good advice on the supplements.
Dogs can’t always carry that much. My dog carries some of his own stuff but I know my limits better than his. I would not recommend making a dog carry all their stuff.
We are leaving next week to start the Washington section of the PCT. Our blue heeler "Gus", who weighs 48 lbs, will be wearing a RuffWear dog pack with 10 lbs loaded (approx. 20% of his body weight). Anything above that weight (extra food, sleeping pad, boots, toys) goes in my pack.
Cool video! Thanks for the info! I’m planning to do some different type of through hiking. I want to start with walking from la to San Diego. But staying on the pch. Have you heard of anything like that? Or is that kinda silly?
I'm not so sure I will be able to ever hike the AT. I'm somewhat worried about what you said about the 2nd half of the AT. I was going to try and do the PCT next year but buying ultralight gear is expensive so I was thinking about switching to first doing the AT then the PCT the following year. I'm going to be 55 next march and I'm not sure if either is going to be feasible at this point.
YOU CAN TOTALLY DO IT!:) And thanks for sharing this. I saw so many many people your age-and the wonderful part of the AT-you can take your sweet time!:) if you need any help with gear, please feel free to shoot me an email or text-You dont need ultralight gear to finish a hike like that-and I WOULD LOVE to be a part of your journey! :)
@@grizelwilliams Thx so much. Where is all your information located? What I have so far is a 50L Osprey pack, nemo hornet 2 person tent, I still need sleeping pad which I think I'm getting the nemo tensor insulated version it's pretty light. The whole sleeping bag vs quilt is throwing me for a loop. For food I have a container for cold soaking and a bar with titanium pot for hot chocolate and occasional hot meal. I have a bear bag setup to. Not sure about clothing, where I need to go to even start. I'll probably have to fly in somewhere and then well i have no idea. I have several books coming but I'm a slow reader, lol. What about safety? I won't have a dog or anyone with me.
How did you hike in the GSMNP for all those miles where it's a huge fine for having a dog on a National Park Trail? Dogs have not been allowed on the National Park trails for at least 90 years.
Hang food bags from bears in areas were the park or land owner recommends it. Bears r no joke. Have you seen the revenant ;) . Dont b lulled by ppl who " never hang food ". May or may not b lacking bad-assery ;) caution. Use bear boxes or hang food when recommended in your area. 👍🤷♀️👌💯🤓
I live in Australia. I cannot understand the fear of Australian animals the rest of the world seems to have. We don't have bears, badgers, wolves (though some areas have wild dogs). Surrounded we have spiders and snakes but they are for the most part much easier to avoid. Bears are scary as heck.
Hi, thank you for sharing all that you have! I just wanted to inform you (and others watching your video) more about the section of taking your dog thru national parks. You mentioned if someone had a therapy dog (they could) or that some people try to get the "certification" showing they are a therapy dog. So therapy dogs do not have the special rights like a service dog has. Therapy dogs are the ones who go to hospitals or care homes to be loved on from all people. A service dog has public access rights, a service dog is only for those who have a disability that the dog is trained to help that specific person with their disability. These have no certification unless it was given through a training program (all you can buy online are fake), the thing that makes a service dog stand out is their training. Please (to all) do not try and say your dog is a service dog or try to get a certification to 'show' they are one just to bring them. This really hurts those who actually have service dogs and cannot go places without them. Imagine everywhere you go, having access issues or unwanted conversations all because a fake service dog before ruined how people view service dogs. They are the superheros of dogs, please allow service dogs the ability to do their jobs by not saying your pet (or emotional support animal) is a service dog. If you made it this far, thanks for listening. Let's help share the correct information about service dogs, therapy dogs and emotional support dogs.
I keep watching your video ordering a ground bird pack for Mako and we will keep training all winter.. what pack do you recommend and what sleeping bag? Thx again!!! Best wishes!
I want to begin doing day hikes with my dog. I have a male cattle dog mix. He is very reactive to ppl. And other dogs. He is super protective.....so we wouldn't be able to have any sort of social life on the trail. Is it going to be doable for us considering the way he is?
the National parks don't allow therapy dogs anymore they got wise to that one and the only way you can bring a dog is if it is a certified service animal which is totally different than a therapy animal. A service animal is pretty much trained from the time they are a pup to do things for people with disabilities. Almost anyone can get a therapy animal designation for their dog but you can't just got get your dog trained to be a service animal because you want to. Basically because of this I'm reduced to hiking outside the national parks in the national forests and BLM land where there are no restrictions on Dogs. This was a really good you should really fire things up and do more of these videos I'd definitely watch.
Service dogs aren't certified in the US and don't need to be professionally trained, you can owner train your own service dog, if you are disabled. Therapy dogs are dogs trained to comfort many people and go to hospitals, schools, disaster areas, etc. Emotional support dogs are dogs that comfort just one person.
@@TheWorkingAussie yes that is actually correct I’ll give you that. However, there was a trend for a while where people were claiming emotional support animals and getting on planes with their 100lb Akita and the airlines allowed it. Now apparently many Airlines have banned this practice because it got out of hand. Apparently people were pulling the same shenanigans at the National Parks and/or they were claiming the animal was their service animal even though they weren’t physically disabled.
@@Raevenswood You don't have to be physically disabled to have a service dog, though. Just disabled, which includes mental and medical disabilities, including debilitating anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar, personality disorders, diabetes, POTS, and many other invisible disabilities. As long as the dog is task trained to mitigate your disability, the dog is a service dog. Unfortunately, idiots ruined it for people who actually needed an ESA on planes.
You probably know this by now but just in case you don't. BRAVECTO is a game changer no more worrying about tics and flees or anything TOTALLY worth it. LOVE all the info. Thanks for sharing.
I use it too for my dog but the only problem is the ticks still get on and bite but once they do they die after a few hours. That still means that I have to comb through my dog every evening to make sure there aren't ticks on him that haven't latched on yet because they could decide to get on me while we are in the tent sleeping. One time I was hiking the redwoods in northern CA and we went to a beach and believe it or not that was the worst place for ticks and about 25 of them got on him and they were jumping off left and right and a few got on us. Basically the Bravecto is great for killing fleas and ticks but it's not a repellent.
I love this video! All great information. However, you did have one mistake. You mentioned therapy dogs. Therapy dogs are different from SERVICE dogs. Service dogs do have public access rights, therapy dogs DO NOT have public rights access unless given permission. What that means is: a service dog IS allowed in parks that do not allow dogs, but a therapy dog is not allowed access to that same park. Service dogs have specialty training that therapy dogs do not and have to perform a specific function for their owner. Please never condone anyone pretending they have a service dog when they really dont. There are places on line that give fake service dog permits and they need to be stopped. I have met a few fake service dogs and they are a danger to REAL service dogs. My dog is a certified therapy dog and was messed up by a fake service dog. Also there is actually 3 places dogs are not allowed, Smokey Mountains, Baxter, and Bear mountain state park trailside museum. As for what other people think HA! My dog LOVES to hike and camp! We also mountain bike together and I get that alot that I am abusing my dog. They have to see her facec when I just pick up my bike and ask her if she wants to go for a ride. She LOVES it! Too many people are just too used to couch potato dogs. Other than that I love the video, lots of good info. I subscribed to your channel. I have a lot of good dog stuff on my channel too, and plan on doing some AT stuff this summer and hopefully a whole thru hike next summer (minus the areas that dont allow dogs of course). Please visit my channel and subscribe too! Maybe some day we can do a hike together with our dogs.
I am wanting to hike the Presidential Traverse with my wife and pup. I have hiked that section of the AT a few times so its not new for me. Any issues or extra considerations for the elevation and extra rocky trail? Do you think its too much for a doggo to do? He's a German Shepard / Belgian Maliniois and is super energetic and trained to an extent. Its only 24 (ish) miles and we have 3 days to do it. I appreciate any input you have!
whoever says your bringing your dog against her will... dude its a dog, it prolly wants to do it more than you do.. dont listen to those ppl they prolly keep their dog locked inside all day -.-
Hmm. Long time since you visited this. No matter. Couple points: really, ignore the negative. I cannot emphasize enough: you learn, we learn, by doing or by the experience of others. Maybe one draws different lessons, but as I have mentioned: we can learn from our own experience or from others. So, think about this: 1. Learn nothing from our own (like, stupid); 2. Learn from our own (common), or, 3. Learn from others (smart). You blazed a trail. Keep at it. I will follow. No shame. Second point: I live on the Front Range. You have hiked the AT. Understand, and I hope to meet you but that's a different conversation, that the CT is very different than the AT. I LIVE at 6K which is fundamentally the highest you have experienced at AT. Seecoloradotrail.org/characteristics-of-the-colorado-trail/ Unless you have experienced inter-mountain west or, even though not the same, western backpacking, then you REALLY need to understand it's a different world. Key points: altitude really makes a difference; afternoon thunderstorms will kill you; temperatures are different here: it changes wildly, it is drier than you can imagine, and it gets colder and hotter than you can imagine: rule of thumb -- every 1K is equal to 3 degrees F. So, in Denver at 5K it's 80, at Mt Evans, at 14K, it's ~62. Mt Evans is just a drive from Denver. So, just understand, this is a different world. 4. Oh yes, and the air is thinner. I won't get into the science, but at 6K, you will experience noticeable differences in oxygen intake. At 10K, trust me, you will be sucking wind. And, since the CT gets to 13K, you will experience a very different and not very good experience from your previous backing. Lessons: acclimate. Spend a day or two in Denver. That's at least 5200. 2. hydrate. Water in altitude is key. 3. Pay attention - thunderstorms come up in the early afternoon, and they will kill you. I lived my youth in the east: D.C., Boston, etc., But, I was a child of the west: Montana, Washington, Alaska. You: from what I can tell, an East Coast kid. Lots to love, I certainly did. But, you plan the CT. Do it. Just understand, it's not the AT, it is a different world. You have never been at 10K much less 13K. Example: plant material stops being at around 11K. Why? Because the average 24hour temperature for most plant material growth has to be 55 degrees F or higher. Hence, we have a tree line. Duh: it's about 11K. Think about that, Grizel. On that depressive note, I do hope you'll do the trek. And, it may be that you'll run across some old Geezer and his young Airedale. That may be us. But, in the meantime, take care and be safe. The world needs you. /M
Your psychology teacher told you all this? We are to protect our animals, use wisdom, not put them in dangerous situations while trying to appeal to children with immaturity.
90% of the animals in the US are obese, with arthritis, left at home for 8 hours a day, and begging for a 10 minute walk around the block that most owners are too lazy to do everyday. Not to mention all the animals that are left in shelters. Her taking her dog on a hike is the least of your worries bud. Like what the comment above me said, they are animals that need mental and physical stimulation, not plush toys to be kept on your bed dressed in pajamas and a flower headband.
Thanks for the info! One thing, My dog (Texas heeler) has a job to do. Protect ME! I want other people to be scared of her. She is off leash and on leash trained. When she is on leash she is much more protective of me. She will bark at anyone who comes close to me and It's not my problem if they are scared and don't like it. That is her job. She has never bitten anyone but one time when a man tried to come up to me she raised her hackles and growled and lunged towards him. He was pissed and told me he was gonna report me. Guess what? I don't care. I talked to the rangers after and told them the story and they agreed that she was doing her job. Point is, I don't care about how other people receive my dog. She is my companion and protector and I am hers.
And that is Laughable that people tried to say hiking long periods of time or strenuous terrain is dog abuse! Are you kidding me?! Dogs that are pampered and don't get wilderness time are being abused! My dog knows the word "woods" and when she hears it she grabs her leash and goes to the door. That being said a dog that is not trained for this may have trouble but I'm sure they would adapt. People and dogs were meant to wander and use their legs and joints and senses to survive. UUUUGHHH how frustrating.
Sounds like your dog is far more aggressive than protective. You could absolutely have a good protection dog without it snapping at everyone who walks by. Really just an asshole
@@zacharykam5161 I'm with you. My boy is protective. Stands directly between me (or my kid) and anyone else sniffing them over and keeping them back. Does still try to kiss faces once he's satisfied though. Pup always shows his love with an 80lb block of "mine". Even when I tuck the kid in he carefully places himself between me and the boy until he's ordered to stand down. This is the protective parent version. Placing one's self calmly but stubbornly between loved one and potential danger. Op's dog is doing strung-out addict buddy version of protection. The bro screaming and pulling a knife on a stranger in a club while OP holds them back and they go nuts.
Learned about you from REI. Good job on the AT but it is the easiest long trail to do with a dog and you couldn’t even get half way without sending your dog home because it was suffering. You giving advice on this topic is appalling and anyone interested in this should search out a better role model. Gross.
Katie P this comment makes absolutely no sense to me. What does only making it half way and sending Rue home have to do with anything? I congratulate Griz in knowing her dog and taking those necessary actions, although hard, for the health and safety of Rue. The AT being the “easiest long trail to do with a dog” means nothing because every dog is different.
Hey Katie-first of all-I dont know you at all, but my heart genuinely hurts for you. It is insane to me that you would take the time to write such an ugly post to someone you dont know. As much as I don't feel the need to defend myself, I know that I made the best decisions I could at the time, and as I said on my video that you probably didn't watch-I am not going to listen to people like you who dont know me or what it is like to thru hike with my dog. I am sorry that you felt like you had to do this, and I hope that your day gets better.If you feel like this video is an injustice, please make your own video talking about your experiences thru hiking with a dog so maybe I could learn from you.
This is a called a hater. a person who thrives on showing hate toward, criticizing, or belittling other people or things, unfairly. The least you could have done is give some constructive criticism and advice to help Grizel. Your comment is gross.
So you leave your dog at a hotel then keep hiking a trail then double back or hitch a ride back to where your dog is? There is like 2 seconds of this dog in this vid...liberal much?
4:20 is a BIG tip.... I can't tell you how many times someones dog has ran up to mine and the owner yells "DON'T WORRY THEY"RE FRIENDLY" and while I'm in control of my dog "THAT'S GREAT, MINE ISN'T"! My dog is literally trained to protect against things that catch me off guard when I'm hiking, that's why I'm in the wilderness with her.... Not a dog park. I love dogs, but I have a responsibility to keep my dog safe as well.
Thanks for being kind to us folks who are scared of dogs! I love how mindful you are about others ❤️ awesome video! Can’t wait for more
Thanks for hearing me!!!
Congrats on your first video!!!! Can't wait for more.
You were by far one of the most helpful ppl that I have watched. I’m planning on going with my dog this year.
Proud of you sweetheart . A heart of gold , a strong woman, congratulations on your accomplishments.
Excellent tips on hiking with your dog. All of your advice is spot on. I've had my dog for 2.5 years (he's 3 now) and we've been walking/hiking together that whole time. He has become the best partner on and off leash. Lots of energy and also very well behaved. Thanks for posting this.
Thanks for the video and your AT experience. I have hiked a lot of miles with my 50 pound hound mix. I appreciate your honesty. To be honest a lot of RUclips videos preach a lot of stuff that in the real world is just not happening. Sleeping with your food is way more common than most will admit. Especially with thru hikers. I am older mid 60s and for decades no one I knew ever hung their food. I never even knew I was supposed to. I do now but to he honest not all the time. The last two years my dog Maggie and I hiked the 270 miles of the Long Trail, she is off leash most of the hike but very well trained. She returns to be if she hears anyone on the trail and I always put her back on leash or if we are near a major summit with people. I have actually never had anyone give me crap for hiking with my dog. I train year round with my dog so she is super fit. It’s strange that people would think what you are doing is bad but they have no issue with dogs getting fat and walking around their neighborhood for short walks. My dog loves the trail and she has no problem walking 15 to 20 miles for days on end. My dog does not carry a pack because she had issues with her pack running under her front legs. I regret not getting the pack you mentioned when I had the chance. I think she is out of business. Her website gots to error 401 now. I did purchase a DCF dog bowl from her. We are doing the Colorado Trail late this summer. I have replaced my Zpacks pack with a more robust Waymark pack because of all of my dog’s food and gear. For me the only issues I have with hiking with my dog is carrying all her food and drying her up at night if the weather is bad. I only sleep in shelters if no one is there or we have actual made friends with those staying and they are dog people. The biggest reason I have seen for people getting off the trial with their dogs is the dogs paws getting hurt. I also have always had to pay up to stay in a hotel with my dog. 30 to 40 dollars more. It’s surcharge. Take care and enjoy
You're a thoughtful dog mom!
Thank you so much for this video!!! It's incredibly helpful!
I'm thinking about taking my dog with me on the PCT this year and it's soo hard to find information about this topic! I don't want to put him in danger and consider every possible scenario.
Is there anyone who's going SOBO 2023 with a dog?
Super informative. Thank you! And I agree with the last part...I'm so lucky that I've had influential people in my life, and you, help me come back to my knowing and trusting myself.
7:31 Hey there,
My dog hikes with me everywhere, he lives for the trail. Hogan wears a basket muzzle for various reasons as he can be unpredictable with other dogs. It’s also a liability issue, if he were to run off he wouldn’t be able to bite someone.
Watched the video, read the comments. My own observations. First, bravo. It's not that you did everything right, but we learn much by experience and, when we are wise, through other people's experience, I am grateful that you did this, and that your reported on it -- the good, the bad, and the ugly. Bravo to you. Second, on the negative and even nasty comments (fortunately, few in number), do the right thing: ignore them. You did your hike, you did good stuff, you also made mistakes, and you clearly acknowledge lessons. The arm-chair "you're irresponsible, blah, blah, " are just mental incompetents. Third, okay, my own critique -- but not, I hope, nasty or personal. I have done dog training for a very long time, in competitive obedience and for my own back country experience. And my dogs have been and are Airedales which in the dog world, the obedience world, is usually accompanied by "I'm sorry" (or in competition: "oh great, there's an Airedale; I won't be in last place"). On the other hand, I've never done more than a ten day in country with a dog so I watched your video to see and experience your hike, and your dog's hike. On obedience: as I implied at least, my standards for dog obedience are likely different than yours -- no approbation for me or sin to you, we're just different. Still, if I were taking lessons from "our" different experiences, I'd probably emphasize a couple things. 1. A solid, no excuses, recall. That's pro forma in the competition world, but it becomes critical in the back country. I worked my dogs on no excuses recall, and drop on recalls, because in my view it's life or death in the back country (my Airedales and I did much of our backpacking in the Pasayten Wilderness and in other grizzly environments). 2. I really liked your emphasis on dog behind. In normal obedience, it's a side by side heel which is clearly contraindicated on the trail. 3. Ticks and parasites: use something like Advantix or some other topical. I took my young Airedale to the Hunting and Working Airedale Nationals (just for the experience; he doesn't hunt and I don't work, so it was just for fun), and Ohio like much of the East is rife with ticks (I'm in Colorado; ticks are a problem but nothing like the East). A topical works best. 4. Distance. I was impressed. Having watched Jessica Mills on Homemade Wanderlust, I take to heart her explicit and your implicit "walk your dog's hike). Dogs, unlike people and more like most animals, don't do this stuff for fun. Instinctively, a dog will conserve calories. Plus, physiologically, they are set up for a different physical experience. Based on my own experiences with two Airedales, I rather suspect your dog could have and would have handled the rougher northern terrain better than you or certainly better than you conjectured. Still, your caution was and is commendable -- the pointless critics to the contrary. 5. Turbo pup is not just a snack. It can be, and I have used it as, the meal. It is far more concentrated than kibble, even the highest protein kibble. Well, that's more than enough of my commentary. I'll likely re-watch your video a couple more times. It is packed with useful comments, information, and, yes, mistakes. As a political theorist I once knew put it: Good judgment is the result of experience which often comes from bad judgment. I take knowledge from your experience. Thank you.
WOW, i love how thoughtful this comment is! Thank YOU for sharing all of this information with me. Now that I have two dogs, things have DEFINITELY changed since then. I appreciate your feedback and will take it into consideration next time I go on a long hike with my dog. BUT THANK you for your honesty and feedback. Means a lot to me! :)
Like the other commenter (from a year ago - I’m clearly late to the game), I really appreciate the time you put into these additional tips and how respectful you are! I’m wanting to start hiking in general (not a thruhike with my dog) and since she’s not a sporting/working dog, I’m trying to figure out the best way to “walk her hike.” Really appreciate the care and insight you put in this comment…. Just like I do for this video!
Thank you so much for doing this video!! I'm pretty severely disabled and am just getting started with backpacking (so far only going 1-3 miles on weekend trips). But my ultimate goal is to work up to long distance hiking. I have my Service Dog who provides mobility support, medical alerts, and medical response, and there is SO LITTLE information on how to keep him safe as well as proper trail etiquette. Also, REALLY appreciate that you didn't "register" Roo as a service dog--there's no legal registration process for service dogs, and people who do that just to bring their dogs places can severely harm real working teams.
I’m planning on thru hiking with my dog. Thanks for this super informative video.
Thanks for sharing your experience honestly and in detail. The big take-away for me is hike your dog's hike - with all that entails ; also that some people don't like dogs and are on their own healing journeys (can't understand why anyone wouldn't like dogs but that's a good reminder for a dog loverI).
You love your dog. Thanks for the advice.
Human Down vests for dog works like a wearable top quilt for them. Get a big enough size their arms fit in holes no tension. Pop it on In them tent at night don't zip it. Imo works better then the dog sleeping bags... Cheaper too
Thanks. Roo sounds like a great dog. This is the most comprehensive dog hiking content I've found so far, so good job.
Just started doing the AT with my dog, this was a great video. We have hiked 100’s of miles together but this was some really info about the AT. Safe travels to you both
Thank you from a South African hiking dog lover.
You’ve just made me feel so much more confident ❤
Thank you! Probably the most informative video on this subject
This was super helpful! My border collie and I are going to attempt the Colorado Trail (486 miles) in July. It will be our first thru hike! Would you consider making a video detailing all the gear you brought for your pup? Thanks for the great video! You have an awesome presence on camera!
AHHH! that is SO EXCITING!! you still planning on it this year? I know that I will be on there, so maybe we will bump into one another!
AND I TOTALLY WOULD!!! :) but for now, here is a quick list: Groundbird Gear pack, she slept with me in my pad/sleeping bag, turbo pup food, first aid kit for dogs (wax for paws and bandages) and...... zip locks for food and water! :)
I never hung my food either. Made sure all wrappers were in my food bag and it was closed and in my pack. Zero issues
Great video I have watched it a few times. I have backpacking with as many as three dogs at a time previously, but it has been a while so I wanted to see a refresher course.. I liked that you kept emphasized that you ned to hike your dog's hike...I will honestly say I don't think I ever did that previousy but will be more mindful of dong that in the future. Thnaks again... Hopefully you will continue making making videos..peace
Fantastic video thank you!! I found a lot of useful information here and more than just advice, but hearing what you had to say about the northern half of the AT. Good to know!
Thanks for all your wonderful information. I live 20 minutes from the smokies but only hike places where I can bring Mako!!!
No, I am absolutely not ready to hike my dog's hike because I could never ever EVER keep up. LOL
I just love you and Rue!! I am turning 66 Saturday and wAnt to do some in and out hikes with Mako my Standard Poodle!!
WOW - I just subscribed - you are amazing ! Please keep up the good content
great video. I really liked the content. looking for forward to move videos of yours. I also have never heard of those dpg packs you used so looking into those as well. Mainly been using ruffwear.
Thanks for the info!! I want to hike the AT with my dog! She’s an Australian cattle dog and she definitely has the energy and is great off leash. Pretends like other people and dogs aren’t even there, just slides right by them. Unfortunately, when in the house or a tent she barks at every. Little. Noise!! I really need to train that out of her.
Very informative thank you
Thanks for the video. I attempted in 2017 and I will be doing another this coming year except this time with my Australian Shepherd. I’ve been doing a lot of searching for 1st hand advice on thru hiking with a dog. Glad I saw your video. We had a least 1 dog in our bubble in ‘17 and from what I remember he did great. I was surprised about people coming up to you and “scolding” you about bringing your dog. Some people are so entitled. Ugh. Well thank you so much. If you have any more advice, I would love to listen.
Sincerely,
Whiskey n Cash
THANK YOU FOR THIS COMMENT! I hate that I am just now seein this...URG!! I will be back on here for frequently for now!! thanks for watching and I hope I can give more!!
These tips and tricks are so helpful!! Thank you Grizel 🖤
Thanks a lot for your information, I'm planning a thru hike in Europe with my dog, this video is super helpfull!
On the AT not so much but out in cali in Kings Canyon I saw more bears bigger bears then I ever saw on the AT. I hung everything a bear might like high and far away from where we slept.
Very helpful video. Taking my ACD out for a 400 mile section of the PCT next month. I really dread having to deal with comments from ignorant/nosey people about my dog. Ugh!
I'm looking to do a big hike. Probably 1500km. My girls really good as long as she doesn't see a large animal rhen she's off for few minutes. Luckily as an amstaff she's not the fastest so she loses them and comes back. Anyone got any advice on how to train a dog not chase animals?
Did. You mention what tent you used ? One Person or two person?
The backpack thing: I might spend some time socialising my dog with people with backpacks on. Good looking out!
Thank you for this video! Great info, great attitude, great story! I've been debating taking my dog with me - this will really help me make a much wiser choice. 👍👍
Me: Trying to find out if it's OK to take my 6.5 month old Doberman on a 4 mile hike.
You: I walked the AT with my Doggo.
Alrighty then...
The biggest consideration with large breed dogs is they are not finished growing for apex 2 years. Most of their growth plates close around 18 months. My advice is to not put a pack on them if they are younger than that abs to be careful you don’t over do it with strenuous terrain or a lot of stairs as theirs can effect the growth abs durability of their knees elbows and hips
Thank you so much for your very detailed and honest advice/experience! So much useful information! (Especially needing wax up to 5x/day, on leash/off leash, and that thru hikers don’t actually hang their food as much as it’s “officially” recommended). Super curious how hitchhiking worked with Roo (Rue?). Sorry people were so rude!
Not related to hiking with dogs, but just to add more support for the food-hanging question. My wife and I hiked the PCT in 2020 and never hung our food ... not once! I also don't remember seeing other hikers hanging their food. We did have a bear sniffing around our tent one morning while in the Sierras, but some shouts and arm-waving from us sent him on his way.
Insta Sub! in the training process for my pups! good information!
Awesome video!
Great video, thank you!
Thanks for the information, great video!
Thanks for listening!:)
Grizel Caminas thanks for sharing! Proud of you both!!
Thanks for this! Such useful advice!
Do you have a blog about how you trained Roo for hiking?
What is the dog behind you thing ? We hike with our dogs a lot and they are ALWAYS on a waist belted leash. But they are out 5-6 feet in front of us. When we pass people I usually short leash them and hold them by the closest handle or pull off the trail completely to let people go by.
My dog loves to be out in front of me too. When I hike on the PCT, my girl just walks directly behind me. She always wants to stop and sniff things and I end up constantly having to push her along. She figured out quick that it makes sense to walk behind me. That's also way more of a thing when she's got her backpack on. She knows! Once everyone is geared up and walking miles into the woods, a natural order of things develops. Mine prefers to walk behind me. The moment we're home she is back to normal though.
She didn't want her pulling her.
And if you teach the dog "heel" and "free" you won't have to readjust the leash.
Behind in high distraction/dangerous areas Infront in free areas. Once that's trained into the pups life is so much easier.
People are wild-I'm surprised people gave you a hard time about hiking with your dog. Unless it's a pug who can't breath and whose eyes are popping out, most dogs love walkies and hikies!
Wolves chase elk twenty-miles or more in a day. Iditarod dogs pull a hundred-pounds each a hundred-miles per day for more than a week. In blizzard conditions. Dog has a purpose, it is not some helpless butterfly. Nobody loves the dog more than its owner. To pretend otherwise is virtue-signaling cowardice at the expense of both dog-owner and dog. There's nothing better than seeing a well-mannered dog on the trail.
This is my idea/plan:
In another seven years or so, I want to walk across the US. I'll bring four huskies, and maybe a lab for other reasons, and two small carts, ontop of my pack. If each cart can be pulled by one husky, every two hours we'll take a break and switch dogs. I plan on going from New York to Chicago, Chicago to New Orleans, and from there turn west and eventually to Los Angles. When I'm in the South I'm planning on it being winter months so it won't be too hot. If I can take another year off of work I'll continue north to Seattle, then east to lake superior, southeast to Florida and then up the east coast and back home.
cool idea. don't let dreams be dreams though and go do that shit
You'd be surprised by how cold CA can be during March. Right now its June and still pretty cloudy and windy althou not for long. But overall you should be fine weather-wise, since you will be carrying gear for all 4 season.
@@joanaphillips6290 but are you talking about southern California? Like around LA. From my understanding, that part of California experiences a Mediterranean climate (relatively dry, rain in the winter, and mild temperatures).
@@TheDcraft Yes from L.A to Tijuana, Mexico.
Thanks
amazing video!
Your dog should have it's own backpack and carry it's own food, water, and toys. I just got a Blue Heeler puppy and plan on eventually taking him on the PCT when he's ready, probably in 2-3 years, so part of our training regime will include the harness vest, and getting used to carrying a load that mimics 10 days of food weight and a water bottle. I'll carry the toys so he can have extra food. One tip, make sure you're also giving your dog a food supplement while on trail (besides yourself). A super high quality multivitamin and mineral supplement should be a part of your possibles...
My wife and I are leaving next month to hike a 400 mile section of the PCT (in Washington) and will be bringing our 2 year old blue heeler. We hiked 2,000 miles of the trail back in 2020 so feel well prepared to do this (relatively) short section with our dog. Good advice on the supplements.
Dogs can’t always carry that much. My dog carries some of his own stuff but I know my limits better than his. I would not recommend making a dog carry all their stuff.
We are leaving next week to start the Washington section of the PCT. Our blue heeler "Gus", who weighs 48 lbs, will be wearing a RuffWear dog pack with 10 lbs loaded (approx. 20% of his body weight). Anything above that weight (extra food, sleeping pad, boots, toys) goes in my pack.
Cool video! Thanks for the info! I’m planning to do some different type of through hiking. I want to start with walking from la to San Diego. But staying on the pch. Have you heard of anything like that? Or is that kinda silly?
I'm not so sure I will be able to ever hike the AT. I'm somewhat worried about what you said about the 2nd half of the AT. I was going to try and do the PCT next year but buying ultralight gear is expensive so I was thinking about switching to first doing the AT then the PCT the following year. I'm going to be 55 next march and I'm not sure if either is going to be feasible at this point.
YOU CAN TOTALLY DO IT!:) And thanks for sharing this. I saw so many many people your age-and the wonderful part of the AT-you can take your sweet time!:) if you need any help with gear, please feel free to shoot me an email or text-You dont need ultralight gear to finish a hike like that-and I WOULD LOVE to be a part of your journey! :)
@@grizelwilliams Thx so much. Where is all your information located? What I have so far is a 50L Osprey pack, nemo hornet 2 person tent, I still need sleeping pad which I think I'm getting the nemo tensor insulated version it's pretty light. The whole sleeping bag vs quilt is throwing me for a loop. For food I have a container for cold soaking and a bar with titanium pot for hot chocolate and occasional hot meal. I have a bear bag setup to. Not sure about clothing, where I need to go to even start. I'll probably have to fly in somewhere and then well i have no idea. I have several books coming but I'm a slow reader, lol. What about safety? I won't have a dog or anyone with me.
Thank you for this Video- very helpful! :-)
You could just answer, my dog is taking me on this trip.
what did you do when it rained for your dog? did you have a rain jacket for your dog ?
How did you hike in the GSMNP for all those miles where it's a huge fine for having a dog on a National Park Trail? Dogs have not been allowed on the National Park trails
for at least 90 years.
Hang food bags from bears in areas were the park or land owner recommends it. Bears r no joke. Have you seen the revenant ;) . Dont b lulled by ppl who " never hang food ". May or may not b lacking bad-assery ;) caution. Use bear boxes or hang food when recommended in your area. 👍🤷♀️👌💯🤓
I live in Australia. I cannot understand the fear of Australian animals the rest of the world seems to have. We don't have bears, badgers, wolves (though some areas have wild dogs). Surrounded we have spiders and snakes but they are for the most part much easier to avoid. Bears are scary as heck.
Hi, thank you for sharing all that you have! I just wanted to inform you (and others watching your video) more about the section of taking your dog thru national parks. You mentioned if someone had a therapy dog (they could) or that some people try to get the "certification" showing they are a therapy dog. So therapy dogs do not have the special rights like a service dog has. Therapy dogs are the ones who go to hospitals or care homes to be loved on from all people. A service dog has public access rights, a service dog is only for those who have a disability that the dog is trained to help that specific person with their disability. These have no certification unless it was given through a training program (all you can buy online are fake), the thing that makes a service dog stand out is their training. Please (to all) do not try and say your dog is a service dog or try to get a certification to 'show' they are one just to bring them. This really hurts those who actually have service dogs and cannot go places without them. Imagine everywhere you go, having access issues or unwanted conversations all because a fake service dog before ruined how people view service dogs. They are the superheros of dogs, please allow service dogs the ability to do their jobs by not saying your pet (or emotional support animal) is a service dog.
If you made it this far, thanks for listening. Let's help share the correct information about service dogs, therapy dogs and emotional support dogs.
I keep watching your video ordering a ground bird pack for Mako and we will keep training all winter.. what pack do you recommend and what sleeping bag? Thx again!!! Best wishes!
I want to begin doing day hikes with my dog. I have a male cattle dog mix. He is very reactive to ppl. And other dogs. He is super protective.....so we wouldn't be able to have any sort of social life on the trail.
Is it going to be doable for us considering the way he is?
the National parks don't allow therapy dogs anymore they got wise to that one and the only way you can bring a dog is if it is a certified service animal which is totally different than a therapy animal. A service animal is pretty much trained from the time they are a pup to do things for people with disabilities. Almost anyone can get a therapy animal designation for their dog but you can't just got get your dog trained to be a service animal because you want to. Basically because of this I'm reduced to hiking outside the national parks in the national forests and BLM land where there are no restrictions on Dogs. This was a really good you should really fire things up and do more of these videos I'd definitely watch.
Service dogs aren't certified in the US and don't need to be professionally trained, you can owner train your own service dog, if you are disabled. Therapy dogs are dogs trained to comfort many people and go to hospitals, schools, disaster areas, etc. Emotional support dogs are dogs that comfort just one person.
@@TheWorkingAussie yes that is actually correct I’ll give you that. However, there was a trend for a while where people were claiming emotional support animals and getting on planes with their 100lb Akita and the airlines allowed it. Now apparently many Airlines have banned this practice because it got out of hand. Apparently people were pulling the same shenanigans at the National Parks and/or they were claiming the animal was their service animal even though they weren’t physically disabled.
@@Raevenswood You don't have to be physically disabled to have a service dog, though. Just disabled, which includes mental and medical disabilities, including debilitating anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar, personality disorders, diabetes, POTS, and many other invisible disabilities. As long as the dog is task trained to mitigate your disability, the dog is a service dog.
Unfortunately, idiots ruined it for people who actually needed an ESA on planes.
How did your dog do at night. Did he/she hear ever noise and smell and want to leave the tent. How did you prevent this?
You said you did the first 1100 miles. Did you end up finishing? If not, do you think having a dog played into that?
My big question is how to avoid your dog getting poison Ivy and also it transferring to yourself
Yessss thankyou! 🌈😊
You probably know this by now but just in case you don't. BRAVECTO is a game changer no more worrying about tics and flees or anything TOTALLY worth it. LOVE all the info. Thanks for sharing.
I use it too for my dog but the only problem is the ticks still get on and bite but once they do they die after a few hours. That still means that I have to comb through my dog every evening to make sure there aren't ticks on him that haven't latched on yet because they could decide to get on me while we are in the tent sleeping. One time I was hiking the redwoods in northern CA and we went to a beach and believe it or not that was the worst place for ticks and about 25 of them got on him and they were jumping off left and right and a few got on us. Basically the Bravecto is great for killing fleas and ticks but it's not a repellent.
I love this video! All great information. However, you did have one mistake. You mentioned therapy dogs. Therapy dogs are different from SERVICE dogs. Service dogs do have public access rights, therapy dogs DO NOT have public rights access unless given permission. What that means is: a service dog IS allowed in parks that do not allow dogs, but a therapy dog is not allowed access to that same park. Service dogs have specialty training that therapy dogs do not and have to perform a specific function for their owner. Please never condone anyone pretending they have a service dog when they really dont. There are places on line that give fake service dog permits and they need to be stopped. I have met a few fake service dogs and they are a danger to REAL service dogs. My dog is a certified therapy dog and was messed up by a fake service dog.
Also there is actually 3 places dogs are not allowed, Smokey Mountains, Baxter, and Bear mountain state park trailside museum.
As for what other people think HA! My dog LOVES to hike and camp! We also mountain bike together and I get that alot that I am abusing my dog. They have to see her facec when I just pick up my bike and ask her if she wants to go for a ride. She LOVES it! Too many people are just too used to couch potato dogs.
Other than that I love the video, lots of good info. I subscribed to your channel. I have a lot of good dog stuff on my channel too, and plan on doing some AT stuff this summer and hopefully a whole thru hike next summer (minus the areas that dont allow dogs of course). Please visit my channel and subscribe too! Maybe some day we can do a hike together with our dogs.
I am wanting to hike the Presidential Traverse with my wife and pup. I have hiked that section of the AT a few times so its not new for me. Any issues or extra considerations for the elevation and extra rocky trail? Do you think its too much for a doggo to do? He's a German Shepard / Belgian Maliniois and is super energetic and trained to an extent. Its only 24 (ish) miles and we have 3 days to do it. I appreciate any input you have!
Our dogs sound so similar. Are you buddhist?
whoever says your bringing your dog against her will... dude its a dog, it prolly wants to do it more than you do..
dont listen to those ppl they prolly keep their dog locked inside all day -.-
I have two shibas and One of them cries if we stop hiking to take a break
SO you get it!!!!!!
Wait!. Did you do the PCT with your dog?
I did not, just the AT! :)
👍🏼❤️❤️❤️
Hmm. Long time since you visited this. No matter. Couple points: really, ignore the negative. I cannot emphasize enough: you learn, we learn, by doing or by the experience of others. Maybe one draws different lessons, but as I have mentioned: we can learn from our own experience or from others. So, think about this: 1. Learn nothing from our own (like, stupid); 2. Learn from our own (common), or, 3. Learn from others (smart). You blazed a trail. Keep at it. I will follow. No shame. Second point: I live on the Front Range. You have hiked the AT. Understand, and I hope to meet you but that's a different conversation, that the CT is very different than the AT. I LIVE at 6K which is fundamentally the highest you have experienced at AT. Seecoloradotrail.org/characteristics-of-the-colorado-trail/ Unless you have experienced inter-mountain west or, even though not the same, western backpacking, then you REALLY need to understand it's a different world. Key points: altitude really makes a difference; afternoon thunderstorms will kill you; temperatures are different here: it changes wildly, it is drier than you can imagine, and it gets colder and hotter than you can imagine: rule of thumb -- every 1K is equal to 3 degrees F. So, in Denver at 5K it's 80, at Mt Evans, at 14K, it's ~62. Mt Evans is just a drive from Denver. So, just understand, this is a different world. 4. Oh yes, and the air is thinner. I won't get into the science, but at 6K, you will experience noticeable differences in oxygen intake. At 10K, trust me, you will be sucking wind. And, since the CT gets to 13K, you will experience a very different and not very good experience from your previous backing. Lessons: acclimate. Spend a day or two in Denver. That's at least 5200. 2. hydrate. Water in altitude is key. 3. Pay attention - thunderstorms come up in the early afternoon, and they will kill you.
I lived my youth in the east: D.C., Boston, etc., But, I was a child of the west: Montana, Washington, Alaska. You: from what I can tell, an East Coast kid. Lots to love, I certainly did. But, you plan the CT. Do it. Just understand, it's not the AT, it is a different world. You have never been at 10K much less 13K. Example: plant material stops being at around 11K. Why? Because the average 24hour temperature for most plant material growth has to be
55 degrees F or higher. Hence, we have a tree line. Duh: it's about 11K. Think about that, Grizel. On that depressive note, I do hope you'll do the trek. And, it may be that you'll run across some old Geezer and his young Airedale. That may be us. But, in the meantime, take care and be safe. The world needs you. /M
Is that your own camper you payed for or?
? Who else would it belong to?
Your psychology teacher told you all this? We are to protect our animals, use wisdom, not put them in dangerous situations while trying to appeal to children with immaturity.
Who had a psychology teacher?
Sounds like there are far too many people on these trails. People... always ruining things.
Tip one: Don't take your dog. Puts it in harm's way, destabilizes you if it gets lost, attacked, etc.
I wish the AT was only for dogs. It would be much safer and fun.
Dogs are animals. Not plush toys
@@mikehikes710 humans are animals not plush toys
Dogs are wolves. They belong outside, not getting fat on the couch.
90% of the animals in the US are obese, with arthritis, left at home for 8 hours a day, and begging for a 10 minute walk around the block that most owners are too lazy to do everyday. Not to mention all the animals that are left in shelters. Her taking her dog on a hike is the least of your worries bud. Like what the comment above me said, they are animals that need mental and physical stimulation, not plush toys to be kept on your bed dressed in pajamas and a flower headband.
Thanks for the info! One thing, My dog (Texas heeler) has a job to do. Protect ME! I want other people to be scared of her. She is off leash and on leash trained. When she is on leash she is much more protective of me. She will bark at anyone who comes close to me and It's not my problem if they are scared and don't like it. That is her job. She has never bitten anyone but one time when a man tried to come up to me she raised her hackles and growled and lunged towards him. He was pissed and told me he was gonna report me. Guess what? I don't care. I talked to the rangers after and told them the story and they agreed that she was doing her job. Point is, I don't care about how other people receive my dog. She is my companion and protector and I am hers.
And that is Laughable that people tried to say hiking long periods of time or strenuous terrain is dog abuse! Are you kidding me?! Dogs that are pampered and don't get wilderness time are being abused! My dog knows the word "woods" and when she hears it she grabs her leash and goes to the door. That being said a dog that is not trained for this may have trouble but I'm sure they would adapt. People and dogs were meant to wander and use their legs and joints and senses to survive. UUUUGHHH how frustrating.
Being considerate of others is something you never learned. You sound extremely selfish
Sounds like your dog is far more aggressive than protective. You could absolutely have a good protection dog without it snapping at everyone who walks by. Really just an asshole
@@zacharykam5161 I'm with you.
My boy is protective. Stands directly between me (or my kid) and anyone else sniffing them over and keeping them back. Does still try to kiss faces once he's satisfied though.
Pup always shows his love with an 80lb block of "mine". Even when I tuck the kid in he carefully places himself between me and the boy until he's ordered to stand down.
This is the protective parent version. Placing one's self calmly but stubbornly between loved one and potential danger.
Op's dog is doing strung-out addict buddy version of protection. The bro screaming and pulling a knife on a stranger in a club while OP holds them back and they go nuts.
Learned about you from REI. Good job on the AT but it is the easiest long trail to do with a dog and you couldn’t even get half way without sending your dog home because it was suffering. You giving advice on this topic is appalling and anyone interested in this should search out a better role model. Gross.
Katie P this comment makes absolutely no sense to me. What does only making it half way and sending Rue home have to do with anything? I congratulate Griz in knowing her dog and taking those necessary actions, although hard, for the health and safety of Rue. The AT being the “easiest long trail to do with a dog” means nothing because every dog is different.
Hey Katie-first of all-I dont know you at all, but my heart genuinely hurts for you. It is insane to me that you would take the time to write such an ugly post to someone you dont know. As much as I don't feel the need to defend myself, I know that I made the best decisions I could at the time, and as I said on my video that you probably didn't watch-I am not going to listen to people like you who dont know me or what it is like to thru hike with my dog. I am sorry that you felt like you had to do this, and I hope that your day gets better.If you feel like this video is an injustice, please make your own video talking about your experiences thru hiking with a dog so maybe I could learn from you.
@@melgiium you're amazing!!!
Damn katie p way to do an injustice to our name by being so mad about literally nothing. Who hurt you??
This is a called a hater. a person who thrives on showing hate toward, criticizing, or belittling other people or things, unfairly.
The least you could have done is give some constructive criticism and advice to help Grizel. Your comment is gross.
So you leave your dog at a hotel then keep hiking a trail then double back or hitch a ride back to where your dog is? There is like 2 seconds of this dog in this vid...liberal much?
What the fuck does hiking with a dog have to do with being a liberal💀
I was also questioning a few things…. When she said that I was like wtf lol
Some people shoehorn politics into everything.