Hiking is one of the most special ways to spend time outdoors with dogs. Besides the activity aspect, they open our eyes to the presence of birds and wildlife. I still remember fondly the time my dog Bella pointed at mule deer and reminded me to stop and smell the flowers, listen to the bees, and take in beautiful vistas.
No matter where we live, most of us are within a half hour of hiking trails that welcome dogs. Things that I did back then I either can’t remember or are totally irrelevant these days. But now that Odin’s here, I can tackle some of the questions with real-life tips on what works for us!
A huge concern that I’ve noticed over the years with owners and their Newfies is walking well on a leash. These gentle giants are powerful, and if they decide to chase a squirrel, you want to be prepared. Let’s dive into the best Newfoundland dog hiking tips to make your next trip a success.
can newfoundland dog hike
Yes, Newfoundland dogs can certainly hike! They were bred as working dogs, originally helping fishermen haul nets and save people from the water. This means they have a lot of heart and a steady pace. However, they are not your typical mountain-running dogs like a Border Collie or a Husky.
Newfoundlands are more like the freight trains of the dog world. They are great at “slow and steady” endurance. Because they are so heavy, they put a lot of stress on their joints. You should always look for trails that are relatively flat or have gentle inclines rather than steep, rocky climbs.
Another thing to consider is the weather. Because of their thick, double coats, a “good hike” for a Newfie depends entirely on the temperature. A 5-mile hike in 50-degree weather might be easy for them, while a 1-mile walk in 80-degree heat could be dangerous.
hiking with newfoundland dog puppy
When it comes to a Newfoundland puppy, you have to be very careful. Their bones and joints grow rapidly until they are at least two years old. Pushing a puppy too hard on a trail can lead to long-term health issues like hip dysplasia or joint pain.
The general rule for puppies is 5 minutes of exercise for every month of age, twice a day. So, a 4-month-old puppy should only be doing about 20 minutes of walking at a time. Taking a young Newfie on a 3-mile mountain trek is a big no-no.
If you want to bring your puppy along, keep the trips very short and frequent. Focus on “socialization hikes” where the goal isn’t distance. Instead, let them sniff new things, walk on different textures like grass, dirt, and leaves, and practice staying calm when other hikers pass by.
Always avoid hard surfaces like pavement or sharp rocks with a puppy. Their paw pads are still soft, and their joints need the cushion of soft soil or grass. If they start sitting down or lagging behind, the hike is over. Pick them up if you can, or take a very long break before heading back.
newfoundland dog walking guide
Walking a 150-pound dog on a trail requires a different strategy than walking a smaller breed. If a Newfoundland isn’t trained to walk nicely on a leash, a simple hike can quickly turn into a trip to the chiropractor for the owner.
Master the Leash Connection Don’t use retractable leashes. They offer very little control over such a large dog and can snap under the weight of a Newfie. A sturdy, 6-foot fixed leash is your best friend. Many Newfie owners find that a front-clip harness helps discourage pulling because it gently redirects the dog’s chest back toward you.
The “Stop and Sniff” Method Hiking isn’t just about cardio for a Newfie; it’s a sensory experience. Let them stop and sniff. This mental stimulation tires them out just as much as physical walking does. It also gives them a natural break to catch their breath and cool down.
Trail Etiquette for Giants Because of their size, Newfies can be intimidating to other hikers or dogs. Always step to the side of the trail to let others pass. This shows you have control over your dog and gives your giant plenty of space to stay calm.
newfoundland dog hike
When you are actually out on the Newfoundland dog hike, your biggest enemy is heat. These dogs are built for the icy waters of the North Atlantic, not a sunny trail in July.
Hydration is Key Newfies drool, and when they hike, they drool even more. This means they lose moisture fast. You should carry much more water than you think you need. A good rule of thumb is to offer them water every 15 to 20 minutes, even if they don’t seem thirsty. A collapsible bowl is a must-have in your pack.
Coat Care on the Trail That beautiful thick coat acts like a magnet for burrs, sticks, and mud. While it provides some protection from the sun, it also traps heat. You can actually use water to your advantage here. If you find a clean stream, let your Newfie wade in. Wetting their belly and paws is the fastest way to lower their body temperature.
Paw Protection Newfies have massive, webbed paws. These are great for swimming but can be sensitive to sharp rocks or hot sand. Check their paws frequently for “hitchhikers” like pebbles or thorns stuck between their toes. Using a paw balm before the hike can help create a protective barrier.
newfoundland dog good hiking dogs
So, are Newfoundland dogs good hiking dogs? Absolutely, as long as you match the hike to the dog. They are the perfect companions for someone who wants to enjoy a peaceful, scenic walk rather than a fast-paced trek.
The Gentle Spirit Their temperament is their best hiking quality. Newfies are rarely “reactive” or high-strung on the trail. They tend to take everything in stride, making them very pleasant to walk with. They won’t be darting back and forth; they will be right by your side, happy to be part of the pack.
Building Stamina You can’t take a “couch potato” Newfie and expect them to do a 5-mile hike on day one. You have to build up their stamina slowly. Start with short walks around the neighborhood and gradually add a quarter-mile every week. This toughens up their paw pads and builds the muscle needed to support their heavy frames.
Expert Tips for Newfie Trail Success
To make your adventures even better, keep these practical tips in mind:
- Go Early: Start your hikes at dawn. The ground is cooler, and the air is fresh.
- Cooling Gear: Consider a cooling vest. You soak these in water, and they help pull heat away from the dog’s body through evaporation.
- Post-Hike Check: Once you get back to the car, do a full “body scan.” Check for ticks, especially in the thick fur around the neck and under the legs.
- Pack a Towel: A wet Newfie is a messy Newfie. Keep a heavy-duty towel in the car to dry them off before they jump in.
Conclusion
Hiking with a Newfoundland is a majestic experience. It’s about more than just exercise; it’s about the bond you share while navigating the quiet of the woods. By keeping them cool, protecting their joints, and respecting their “gentle giant” pace, you turn every trail into a heroic expedition.
Your Newfie doesn’t need to reach the highest peak to have a good time; they just need to be by your side. So grab your leash, fill up the water bottles, and go enjoy the great outdoors with your best friend.
Common Questions About Hiking With Newfies
How far can a Newfoundland walk?
Most healthy adult Newfoundlands can handle 2 to 4 miles comfortably if the weather is cool. Some well-conditioned dogs can go longer, but you must watch for signs of fatigue like heavy panting or a lagging gait.
Do Newfoundlands need boots for hiking?
They don’t always need them, but they are helpful for very rocky or icy trails. Because their paws are so large, finding boots that fit can be a challenge. Look for XL sizes specifically made for giant breeds.
Can my Newfie carry a backpack?
Yes, but be very careful with the weight. A dog should never carry more than 10% to 15% of their body weight. For a Newfie, this might seem like a lot, but start with an empty pack so they get used to the width of it first.
What should I do if my Newfie overheats?
If your dog starts panting excessively, has a bright red tongue, or seems wobbly, stop immediately. Find shade, offer small sips of water, and pour water over their paws and belly. Do not force them to move until they have completely calmed down.
