Hiking With Dogs

The Case Against Hiking With Dogs

People hiking with their dogs will always anger some backpackers. I have heard many claim that it lowers the quality of the wilderness experience, is bad for the environment, and dangerous for other hikers. This is another one of those cases where both sides are partly right. People's pets do leave messes and chase wildlife, and sometimes even bite other hikers. They can be loud, as well.

The Case For Hiking With Dogs

Some dogs are well trained and don't bite. Also, it's worth noting that ten dogs probably don't do the damage that one cow does to the environment. There are compelling reasons for some to bring their pet, the most obvious being safety. A friend of mine tells me that she takes her German shepherd not only for protection from bears and mountain lions, but also to protect her from the most dangerous animals out there: other humans.

Hiking with dogs may be advantageous in other ways too. A husky can carry its own food and some of your gear. It can also keep you warm at night. A dog is an early warning device for large predators too. A large dog can even defend you against large animals.

Why I Don't Hike With A Dog

I don't have a dog, I don't want one, and wouldn't take it backpacking if I had one. For myself, it would be just one more thing to worry about. Even the best dogs can get into it with a porcupine, or roll in dead fish. I don't want to have to deal with any of these problems at the end of the day. I want to relax and enjoy the view.

I can't see that it is a big problem if others want to go hiking with dogs, though. Even people can damage the environment, be loud, chase animals, and bite. It depends on the person, and it depends on the dog. The libertarian in me says live and let live.

The Ultralight Backpacking Site | Hiking With Dogs