I found myself a new hobby and would love to take Kona hiking. Her reactivity to strangers (barking when surprised and approached to be petted; she will get relaxed if is given enough time to approach on her iniciation) and sometimes leash reactivity to dogs doesn't ease a decision. I am aware that it could be difficult, and may not go as planed, but it is something I like and would be really happy if I could share that time with her, as she enjoys our wood walks, mud and water. After all, we have to start somewhere. Any tips for a beginner human hiker and potential dog hiker are welcomed.
Invest in good boots and proper walking socks. Know your terrain and dress accordingly. Zip-off pants are great; if you set off early, you can convert them to shorts as the temperature rises, or make them long again if you're in scratchy terrain or ticks etc are an issue. Know if you're going to be near water for your doggy - if not, carry a separate bottle for her. Take a doggy first aid kit with you. Absolute essentials are rubber boots in case of paw injury, sterile saline for flushing eyes, tweezers, wire cutters, betadine, vet wrap and gauze. Sunscreen and a hat for you! Take a camera and a picnic. Build up the distance an intensity over time - for both you and Kona. Enjoy
I don't hike ( ) but do walk in the country a lot as we live in a small village in the country. I agree with all Fiona said. Our biggest issue is with wildlife, so a really good recall is important, particularly if off-lead. And being absolutely aware if there may be sheep or other farm animals around. Are you worried about Kona reacting to people you meet? If you pick quiet areas, this should be minimised. Otherwise, you might like to do some of the LAT training to help with focus and calmness.
Yes, especially as there are many people who will automatically try to pet the dog passing by. I arranged the walk/hike with a friend who is more experienced hiker so that he could meet Kona and give us some advises and tips about routes we should visit. He is usually arranging all of hiking trips so he has the idea how people from our group would react to a reactive dog and if they would be able to fallow the instructions on how to approach her (mostly ignoring her at first).
The other day I saw a dog with a bright yellow harness that had 'fearful dog' written on it. maybe something like this would help to warn people who would otherwise just want to be friendly and pet your dog. You could also get a lead that has a strong elastic section to it, I think they are made by Ruff Wear. It's quite long and can loop around your waist. Hiking with a group who get the chance to know you and your dog may help. If your dog is with a pack (of people) it may feel more confident and not react as much to strangers coming towards you and strangers may be less likely to come up to you to pat your dog if you're with a group.
we have this kind of a lead, it is made by ruffwear, originally made for jogging, I think. Trainer I consulted is an ambassador of The Yellow Dog Project, created to bring awareness to dogs who need space while training, recovering from surgery, or being rehabilitated. http://www.yellowdoguk.co.uk Unfortunately, many people in our area still don't know about the idea, and some are just ignoring the yellow mark under the excuse of being around dogs and knowing how to deal with fearful or nervous dogs.
It's so annoying how anyone who once had a dog thinks they can come up and interfere with your dog and tell you how you should be treating them. Silly me, I've just noticed the yellow collar on Kona in your picture.
I have to say, I don't think the yellow collars, harnesses and leads are particularly obvious. When I'm in the UK, I use a fluorescent lead slip which I think is far clearer, as it's an obvious addition, so clearly must be there for a reason. If your dog is going to be off lead, where the slip obviously wouldn't be of use, I think the coats are a good idea because, again, they're obvious.
I agree, especially a yellow ribbon project recommends is hard to notice on the lead. I believe that even the bandanas have the effect: "Look how cute he is!" before noticing what's written on it. She is usually off lead in the woods, but if i notice person or a dog approaching I call her back and put on lead.
Just a thought.........Perhaps a Baskeville muzzle would make people think twice about approaching her, it would also take the worry away and let you relax a little?
It surely would. I am considering that option to. I am just afraid that people may have a negative respond to the UNLEASHED dog with the muzzle.
