There aren’t any studies that I know of that document reduced stress levels or improved physical fitness for dogs that hike. But we can use the concept of parsimony (the simplest explanation is generally the correct one) to assume that our dogs likely get similar benefits from hiking.
They’re urban and sedentary now, just like their owners. And that’s not what they were bred for. Plus, hiking with your dog can give you an excellent opportunity for bonding and training. I can say firsthand that hiking with my dog makes me feel happier, more relaxed, and more connected with my dog.
The exercise benefits for both of us are enormous! He’s much easier to live with when he’s well-hiked. The first time I ever tried backpacking with a dog was back in 2010 with my Rhodesian ridgeback, Johnny. Honestly, I had no idea what I was doing and it showed.
Partway through the hike, Johnny overheated and just stopped. He refused to move. At 80 pounds, carrying him wasn’t an option. I panicked. It took a lot of coaxing and a lot of treats to get him down to a stream where he finally cooled off.
It was scary, and I was so worried for his safety that I never took him backpacking again. Hiking with dogs is one of the best ways to build your bond with your furry friend, all while offering environmental enrichment, stimulation, and physical exercise.
A tired, enriched dog is a good dog, and the more time a dog spends with you doing things, the better your relationship will be. As a certified professional dog trainer and longtime canine product reviewer, I have high standards for dog behavior, training, exercise, and gear.
I believe that all dogs should get outside with their owners, and that they should be trained to be polite members of society on trail. Let’s look at how we can make this dream a reality for you and your Collie.
can collie dog hike
Yes, your Collie is actually one of the most capable hiking partners you could ask for. These dogs were bred for endurance, spending long days moving livestock across the rugged hills of Scotland and England. Their lean, muscular bodies are built for movement and their minds are always “on.”
When you ask can collie dog hike, the answer is a resounding yes, but they do have specific needs. Because they are so smart and have such a high drive to work, they won’t always tell you when they are tired. They will often keep going until they collapse just to stay by your side.
This means you have to be the “manager” of the hike. You need to keep an eye on their breathing and pace. A Collie’s double coat is great for cold weather, but it can cause them to overheat quickly in the sun. If you plan your trips around cooler temperatures, your Collie can easily handle 5 to 10 miles or even more once they are conditioned.
hiking with collie dog puppy
Bringing a young pup on the trail is exciting, but you have to be very careful. Hiking with a collie dog puppy requires patience because their bones and joints are still growing. If you push a puppy too hard too early, you could cause permanent damage to their growth plates.
A common rule of thumb is the 5 minute rule. This means you should give your puppy 5 minutes of formal exercise for every month of their age, up to twice a day. So, a 4 month old puppy should only be doing about 20 minutes of steady hiking.
For the best experience with a puppy, focus on “micro-hikes.” Take them to a trail, let them sniff for 15 minutes, and then carry them for a bit or sit together and watch the world go by. This builds their confidence without hurting their bodies. Wait until your Collie is at least 12 to 18 months old before trying any steep climbs or long distances.
Collie dog walking guide
Before you hit the big mountains, you need a solid Collie dog walking guide for the everyday trails. Training is the most important part of a safe walk. Because Collies have a high herding instinct, they might want to “herd” other hikers, bikes, or even squirrels.
- Master the Recall: Your dog must come back to you every single time you call. On a trail, this is a life-saving skill if they see a cliff or a wild animal.
- The “Leave It” Command: This is vital. Trails are full of things like animal poop, toxic mushrooms, or dead critters. A strong “leave it” keeps your Collie safe from stomach upsets.
- Yielding the Trail: When you see other hikers or horses, step off the trail and have your Collie sit. This shows respect to others and keeps your dog calm.
Using a sturdy 6-foot leash is usually better than a retractable one. Retractable leashes can get tangled in bushes or snap if your Collie lunges after a bird. A harness with a handle on the back is also a great choice. It gives you a way to help them over big rocks or logs.
Collie dog hike
A successful Collie dog hike depends on your preparation. Unlike a quick walk around the block, a hike into the woods means you are far from help. You need to pack a “doggy go-bag” just like you pack your own.
Water is your number one priority. Never let your Collie drink from standing puddles or stagnant ponds, as these can have parasites like Giardia. Carry a collapsible bowl and enough fresh water for both of you. A good rule is to offer your dog water every 45 minutes, even if they don’t seem thirsty.
You also have to think about that beautiful coat. Rough Collies have a lot of fur that acts like a magnet for burrs, sticks, and mud. Keep a small comb or a “slicker brush” in your car. As soon as the hike is over, give them a quick brush. This helps you find ticks before they hide in the deep fur and keeps your car clean too.
Collie dog good hiking dogs
So, are Collie dog good hiking dogs? They are actually some of the best. Their intelligence makes them very easy to train for trail etiquette. They are also very “handler focused,” which means they naturally want to check in with you and stay close rather than running off into the woods.
Their agility is another huge plus. While a bulkier breed might struggle with a narrow switchback or a rocky scramble, a Collie moves with a “light-footed grace.” They are nimble and quick, which helps them navigate tricky terrain without getting hurt.
However, you should be aware of their sensitivity. Collies are very in tune with your emotions. If you are stressed or lost, they will feel it. Keep things positive and fun! Their high energy levels mean they will be ready for the next adventure while you are still putting on your boots.
Gear Essentials for Your Collie
To make your hike as safe as possible, consider these items:
- Paw Wax or Booties: Sharp rocks or hot sand can tear up paw pads. A little protective wax helps a lot.
- First Aid Kit: Include tweezers for ticks, gauze, and a pet-safe antiseptic.
- Cooling Vest: If you must hike in warmer weather, a vest that you soak in water can keep your Collie’s core temperature down.
- Poop Bags: Always pack it out. Dog waste is not like wild animal waste and can hurt the local environment.
Managing the Herding Instinct
Because Collies are herders, they are very sensitive to movement. If a mountain biker zooms past, your dog’s instinct will be to chase and nip. This isn’t aggression; it’s just their “job” coming out.
To manage this, practice “focus” games. When you see something moving fast, get your dog’s attention with a high-value treat. Reward them for looking at you instead of the bike. Over time, they will learn that seeing a “mover” means they should check in with you for a snack.
Conclusion
Hiking with your Collie is more than just a workout; it is a way to see the world through their eyes. When you see them navigate a difficult path with that famous “focused grace,” you realize just how special these dogs are.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your “wilderness wanderer” stays safe, healthy, and happy. Whether it’s a misty morning in the forest or a sunny trek through a meadow, your Collie is the ultimate partner for the journey ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far can a Collie hike?
An adult, healthy Collie that is used to exercise can typically hike 5 to 10 miles without a problem. Some very fit Collies can even do 15 to 20 miles on cool days with plenty of breaks. Always start with short 2 mile hikes and slowly add more distance as they get stronger.
Do Collies get too hot while hiking?
Yes, they can. Their thick double coats are like wearing a winter jacket. If the temperature is over 75 degrees and there isn’t much shade, you should keep the hike short or stay near water. Look for heavy panting or a dark red tongue as signs they need to stop and cool down.
How do I get burrs out of my Collie’s fur?
The best way is to apply a little bit of coconut oil or dog-safe conditioner to the burr. This makes the fur slippery so the burr can slide out without you having to cut the hair. Always check between their toes and behind their ears, as burrs like to hide there.
Can my Collie carry a backpack?
Yes, but only if they are over 18 months old. They can usually carry about 10% to 15% of their body weight. Start with an empty pack for a few weeks so they get used to the feeling before you add water or food.
Should I keep my Collie on a leash?
Even if your dog has great recall, many trails have leash laws to protect wildlife and other hikers. Keeping your Collie on a leash also protects them from running into a snake or eating something toxic. Use a long training lead (15-20 feet) if you want to give them more freedom while staying safe.
