Take Your Dog on a Hike!

A Trail Etiquette Guide for Dog Owners

There’s nothing quite like hitting the trails with your dog. Whether you’re exploring shady forest paths, winding mountain tracks, or local nature preserves, hiking offers a wonderful way to connect—with nature and your canine companion. But before you grab the leash and lace up those boots, let’s talk about how to make the hike enjoyable for everyone on the trail.

Why Trail Etiquette Matters

Hiking with your dog isn't just about burning energy—it's about respectful coexistence. Perfect leash manners are not required, but the ability to communicate between owners and dogs is critical. When communication is limited to a few basic skills, owners need to spend more time managing the environment. As communication grows, dogs are able to experience more freedom and make better choices along the trail. You’re also sharing the trail with bikers, joggers, kids, wildlife, and other dogs. Good etiquette ensures safety, reduces stress, and encourages dog-friendly access to outdoor spaces.

1. Leash Up Unless Otherwise Stated

Even if your dog has a solid recall, many trails require leashes. Not everyone is comfortable around dogs, and a leash helps you prevent unwanted greetings or wildlife chases. A hands-free leash or longline can give your pup freedom while keeping everyone safe. When we do group walks, most dogs are either a 15 foot longline or 30 foot longline depending on the skills of the dog and how wide & busy the trail is.

Pro Tip: Choose a leash length that gives room to sniff but not so long it becomes a trip hazard.

The longer leash allows dogs to move at a different speed than us slower humans and allows them to reach more of the amazing smells they are after. Check out this video from a recent Group Walk to see Belle, Libby and Lana enjoying the trail on a longline.

2. Let Them Sniff and Explore

Sniffing is more than fun—it’s mentally enriching and relaxing for your dog. Just like we enjoy taking in the views, dogs explore their world through scent. Give them time to investigate logs, leaf piles, and new smells.

When we allow our dogs to sniff in nature areas, we let them find natural reinforcement! Sure we can & should take some treats on the hike, especially for emergencies. However the scents in most natural environments are going to be way more reinforcing to most dogs then food. If I'm going to give my dogs treats on the trail, I'm likely going to toss it on the ground to encourage them to sniff a specific area, or more importantly away from an area they may want but we don't want them to have.  

Remember: It’s a hike with your dog, not a march. Let them set the pace sometimes! Generally they want to go faster than us but when they find something good and want to stop, we should stop and wait for them to enjoy the spot.

3. Pack Trail Snacks and Water

Bring a collapsible water bowl and extra water for both of you. Dehydration can sneak up fast, especially on sunny days. I tend to pick walking trails by water sources so that I don't have to carry as much with me. I also keep a thermos of water in the car so there is cool water waiting for us when we get back to the car. Our walks are generally less than an hour long so a sports water bottle and a collapsible bowl is generally enough. I also teach my dog how to drink water out of my hand and squeezed through a sports cap. 

A few high-value treats or trail-friendly snacks help with motivation and reinforcing good behavior on the go. While I don't use very many treats on the trail, a high value treat is great when and emergency or something scary pops up. Treats can also be tossed away from you and your dog if an off leash dog heads your way. 

 

4. Watch for Hazards

Roots, rocks, burrs, sharp sticks, and even stinging insects can be a hazard. Keep an eye on your pup’s paws. I keep a few simple first aid supplies in my treat bag and a larger first aid kit in the car. I tend to need these supplies more than my dog due to my frequent falls, but no one wants to leave a blood trail all the way back to the car. 

Take breaks often and check for foxtails, thorns, and pests such as ticks! Where we live, ticks are unavoidable so a preventative is a must and regular tick checks along the way are important. We do not have poisonous snakes to deal with, but these can be deadly in some areas. Take a look around your area for hazards that are more common in your area. Even water can be hazardous due to poisonous algae and the creatures that live in it.

Quick Check: Is your dog panting hard, lagging behind, or looking for shade? Time for a break. Dehydration and heat distress can quickly become major issues if we do not notice the early warning signs.

5. Share the Trail with Courtesy

Step aside for faster-moving trail users, and use cues like “sit” or “stay” to help your dog calmly observe others passing by. Azul has a "Stay on your side" cue that tells him to ignore what's coming and keep walking forward on the side of the trail he is on. Belle is still working on this so when distractions come towards us, I will typically call her back to me asking her to heel or stay with me as the distraction passes.

If another dog approaches, give space and avoid tight greetings unless both dogs are relaxed and the owners are on board. As a rule, we are not greeting dogs we meet on the trail unless it is someone I recognize. We try to give enough space between us that all dogs feel safe, calm & happy. If that is not possible, that is when the tasty treats come out!

Not every trail dog wants to make friends—and that’s okay! Remember some dogs may appear as if they want to greet as they pull their human towards the other dog and some dogs may be loud, barky beasts even when they are really friendly. 

Most owners are doing the best they can, so try not to cast judgement if their manners are not perfect. We all are on our own training journey with our dogs. Unsolicited advice rarely goes over well!

6. Leave No Trace—Yes, Even Poop

Pick up after your dog every time. Yes, even on backcountry trails. Dog waste carries harmful bacteria that can contaminate water and harm local ecosystems. If there’s no bin, double-bag it and carry it out.

Trail rules: Take only pictures, leave only footprints!

There are lots of cute poo bag holders out there that will clip to your leash or your beltloop. Treat it as a an accessory that is as important as your cell phone and keys.  Don't leave home without it!

 

7. Choose Dog-Friendly Trails

Not all trails are created equal! Consider:

• Distance & incline (based on your dog’s fitness level)
• Shade and water access
• Rules around dogs (on- vs. off-leash)
• Trail surfaces—avoid hot or sharp terrain

Most trails near me require the dog to be on leash. State laws require a leash or under verbal control at all times. This means your dog should not be approaching strangers without permission.

Trails that are off the beaten path are generally more likely to be pet friendly. Big tourist areas that have heavy foot traffic may not be pet friendly or have stricter requirements for dogs. Most beaches are not pet friendly, but may have a a pet area at one end of the beach. 

Unless your dog is a task trained service dog, do not take them on a trail that is not pet-friendly! And if your dog is a service dog, check with the local rangers or DNR to see if there are protected species nearby that your dog may put in jeopardy by taking your dog on the trail. 

Make It a Joyful Adventure

Above all, hiking should be fun—for both ends of the leash! If you're not having fun, chances are your dog is not either! You should enjoy your time in nature, away from constantly checking your phone or stressing about household chores. Bring curiosity, patience, and a sense of adventure. When you tune into your dog’s needs and support their comfort, hiking becomes a shared experience that builds trust and deepens your bond.

If you are stressed by your dog's behavior on the trail check out our Leash Manners E-Book, the "Creating a Leash You Love" Workshop, or schedule an appointment for a full Behavior Evaluation & Training Planning.

Ready to hit the trail with the Yooper Paws Group Walks?

Email me to get the latest schedule at yooperpaws@gmail.com

Take Me Out to the Ball Game!

 🎶 Take Me Out to the Ball Game… and the Parade… and the Summer Concert 🎶

What You and Your Dog Need to Know Before Attending Outdoor Events

There’s nothing quite like a warm breeze, the sound of cheering fans, the smell of popcorn—or maybe funnel cake—and the joy of spending the day out in the sunshine with your best furry friend. Outdoor events like local baseball games, parades, and concerts can be an awesome way to enjoy community time together—but only if your dog is comfortable and prepared for the experience.

Before you leash up and head out, here are some essential tips to make sure both of you have a pawsitively good time!

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🕒 1. Arrive Early and Scout the Scene

Getting there early gives you and your dog a golden opportunity to check out the environment before it gets crowded and noisy. Use this quiet time to walk the area, let your dog sniff and acclimate, and find the most comfortable spot to settle in for the event. Think of it as a decompression walk in reverse—it helps build confidence before things get exciting!

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🧺 2. Create a “Base Camp”

Bring a familiar blanket, cooling mat, or even use your vehicle as a little home base where your dog can relax between bursts of activity. Bonus points if you pack a comfy bed, shade umbrella, and some frozen treats! Your dog will appreciate having a designated chill zone, especially if the event gets overwhelming.

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🤝 3. Friendly Strangers? Yes, No, or Maybe

Before you even consider bringing your dog to a bustling outdoor event, ask yourself this:
Is my dog comfortable both greeting and ignoring friendly strangers?

Some people will want to say hi (often loudly and enthusiastically). Others might get close without noticing your dog at all. Your dog should be able to handle both—without jumping, barking, or panicking. Not every dog is a social butterfly, and that’s okay! If your dog isn’t ready yet, it’s perfectly responsible to leave them home and keep working on their skills in quieter settings.

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🦮 4. Leash Manners Matter

Loose leash walking is a must when you're navigating crowded sidewalks, standing in line, or weaving through a park. At minimum, your dog should be able to walk calmly on a leash and respond to cues like “let’s go,” “wait,” and “leave it.” If your dog pulls toward every smell or person, or zig-zags in excitement, it can make the outing stressful for both of you.

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💦 5. Pack Like a Pro

Don’t forget to bring:

• Water (for both of you) and a collapsible bowl

• Poop bags (and maybe extras—you’ll be a hero!)

• Treats for on-the-go training or redirection

• A favorite chew or enrichment toy to help your dog relax

• A shade source or cooling vest if it’s hot out

Pro tip: If the event allows wagons or carts, bring one! They’re a great way to haul gear, and if your dog is small or gets tired, they might enjoy riding in style.

 

Download the Community Events Checklist here!

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🧠 6. Know Your Dog’s Thresholds

Every dog has a limit. Watch for early signs of stress like lip licking, yawning, excessive panting, or trying to leave the area. If your dog seems overwhelmed, it’s more than okay to leave early or take a quiet break. The goal isn’t to “push through” discomfort—it’s to make these outings enjoyable and safe for everyone.

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🎇 7. Consider Sound Sensitivity

Parades and concerts especially can get loud. Drums, sirens, fireworks, cheering crowds—they’re a sensory minefield for sensitive dogs. If your pup tends to be sound-sensitive or startles easily, even a casual community concert might be too much. Practice with recorded sounds at home or from a distance before going full volume.

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❤️ 8. Safety First

Make sure your dog’s ID tags are up-to-date and securely attached to a well-fitted harness or collar. For added security, a GPS tracker or Apple AirTag holder on their gear can give peace of mind in case of the unexpected.

And speaking of gear—ditch the retractable leash. Opt for a 4-6 foot leash that gives you control without tangling or tripping other attendees. Bonus points for bringing a long line if there’s space to spread out safely!

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🎉 Final Woof

Outdoor events can be a fantastic way to bond with your dog and create fun memories together, but only if they’re truly ready for it. It’s okay if your dog isn’t quite there yet—it doesn’t mean you’re behind, it just means you’re listening to them. And that, my friend, is what makes you an amazing dog guardian.

Want help preparing your dog for real-world outings like these? 

Belle and I are happy to join you at local community events for training opportunities!

I offer virtual coaching and in-person sessions designed to help your dog feel calm, confident, and ready to take on the world—one hot dog stand at a time. Message me or email me to set up your training session!

Happy adventuring! 🐾

Taking Your Dog for a Bike Ride

Thinking About Taking Your Dog for a Bike Ride? 

Let’s Talk Safety First.

Because fun and safety go paw in paw.

Thinking about taking your dog along on your next bike ride?
Amazing! A breeze in your hair, your pup trotting happily beside you—it sounds like a dream. 

But before you strap on your helmet and clip the leash, let’s pump the brakes and chat safety. Because biking with your dog can be a blast... if you do it right.

🐶 Not All Dogs Are Born to Bike

Your dog might be adventurous, but biking is a whole new world of sights, sounds, and fast-moving wheels. Start by asking: Does my dog enjoy movement near them? Are they confident on a leash around distractions? If the answer is “ehhh, not really,” then a bike ride might not be the best match—and that’s okay! There are plenty of other adventure options (and we’ll be covering those in future posts).

If your dog has experience working around other things with wheels such strollers, wheelbarrows, ATV's, mobility scooters they may take to walking next to a bike rather quickly. But if they do not, you will need to go at a much slower pace.

🚲 Training Before Touring

Introduce your dog to the bike slowly. Walk it beside them. Let them sniff it. Reward calm behavior around it. Then, practice short, slow walk-alongs with the bike to build comfort and communication. Trust is everything!

You'll also want to make sure that you have a heavily reinforced "heel" behavior around a wide variety of distractions. If your dog impulsively jerks towards people or another dog when your on a walk, it's going to be even worse when your moving at a good speed. On walks, I don't expect my dogs to stay in heel position long term. However on a bike, if we are moving they need to stay in heel while we are moving. We are also going to stop frequently to give them a chance to explore and sniff a bit. It won't take long and you will learn all of your dog's favorite places to stop and sniff!

🧰 Use the Right Gear

Put down that leash in your hand—seriously. It’s a recipe for tangled limbs and sudden wipeouts. 

A harness is a must! Do not do this on collar of any type as you could do some serious damage to your dog's neck. A solid y-front harness that allows your dog full range of motion is perfect! Always use the back clip as well. I'm a firm believer in a dual clip leash for walks, but the tangling risk on a bike is just too great. Stick to the back clip attachment.

Use a proper bike attachment for dogs with shock absorption and enough distance between bike and body. Or use a hands free waist belt or shoulder strap leash where you can maintain that safety connection while keeping both handle bars on the leash. 

Safety first, always! Do not allow your dog off leash to run beside your bike unless you are on a trail away from roads and traffic AND you have a solid recall. I will use a waist leash with Belle to ride to the trail, then let her off leash to explore a bit. Since she likes speed, Belle mostly chooses to heel even when she is off leash. Azul on the other hand, doesn't do well off leash in nature, only recalling when there are not other animals nearby. I take Azul on bike rides in town when we can more easily use a waistbelt leash.

☀️ Be Heat-Wise and Hydration-Smart

Check the pavement with your hand. If it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot for paws. 

Bring water for both of you. Stop often. Your dog’s tongue shouldn’t be dragging along the trail like a flag of surrender. Panting helps a dog cool off, but if their tongue starts to swell, it's a sign of overheating.

⏱️ Keep It Short and Sweet

This isn’t a race. Start with short rides, especially if your dog is new to this. End on a good note—before your dog is exhausted or overwhelmed. Think quality over quantity.

❤️ Know When to Say “Not Today”

If your dog is fearful, reactive, recovering from an injury, or simply not interested, skip the ride. There’s no shame in choosing safety and comfort over Insta-worthy moments.

This has been especially important for Azul! If weather is too hot, he will overheat very rapidly. Yet if it's over-cast due to rain coming in, Azul is likely to have some joint stiffness. Neither make for a comfortable trip for him. We opt for a slow sniff-a-bout on those days and save the bike ride for cooler days, often later in the evening when Azul is most likely to have some energy and less chance of stiff joints. Azul's trips are also shorter and slower than Belle's trips, simply due to his age and health issues.

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Biking with your dog can be an awesome bonding experience—but only if it's built on preparation, patience, and play.

Stay tuned for more “Thinking About Taking Your Dog…” posts—coming soon, we’ll cover safe hiking tips, beach days with pups, and navigating dog parks like a pro.

Because your dog’s safety is part of the adventure.

Group Walk Lessons

What We Learn on Group Walks: Lessons From the Trail

Whether your dog is fearful, fizzy, or somewhere in between, one of the best ways to turn training into real-world success is to take it on the road and that’s exactly what we do on our Beginners Group Walks.

These walks are more than just a stroll around the block. They’re thoughtfully designed opportunities for both dogs and humans to practice, grow, and connect. Let’s take a look at some of the key skills and lessons we work on together during these powerful sessions.

1. 🛑 Staying at a Safe Distance

One of the first things we teach is that it’s okay to stay far away. In fact, it’s encouraged! Dogs learn best when they feel safe. We help each team find their “learning zone” — that sweet spot where your dog can observe, think, and participate without tipping into panic or overwhelm.

 

2. 🌿 Using Visual Barriers

Sometimes just not seeing the stressor is the best support. We practice using parked cars, bushes, benches, or even our own bodies as visual barriers. This simple technique can lower arousal, reduce barking, and help fearful dogs settle.

 

3. 👀 The 3-Second Rule: Look Away

When our dogs see another dog or person, we practice the “3-second rule” — a short look, then a gentle redirection. This prevents intense staring or fixating, and teaches dogs that it’s okay to look away instead of escalate. One dog can intently watch another as long as the 2 dogs are not making direct eye contact. The moment they do, owners count out loud; "1-2-3-Look Away!" and immediately turn to build distance between the 2 dogs. Dogs can take turns looking at each other, gathering information

 

4. 🧠 Processing the Environment

Fearful dogs often need time to process the world around them. We honor their need to stop, scan, sniff, and think. This is called threat assessment, and when we allow it, our dogs build coping skills and confidence instead of panic.

 

 

5. 🤝 Making Friends Who “Get It”

One of the most beautiful parts of these walks is the community. Every dog here is learning, and every human is showing up with kindness, patience, and empathy. There's no pressure to “perform” — just encouragement, understanding, and shared wins.

 

6. 🛑 Exit Strategies & Gaining Distance

We always have exit strategies. Whether it’s a U-turn, a quick side path, or moving behind a barrier, we teach dogs (and humans!) how to leave before things get too hard. This builds trust, not just between dog and handler, but also in the environment itself.

 

7. 🎲 Playing Games to Stay Focused

We practice games like “Find It,” “Watch Me,” and “Let’s Go!” to keep focus flowing back to the human. These games aren’t just fun — they’re effective tools for calming arousal and building trust in real time.

 

8. 🦮 Leash Manners in Motion

With other dogs around, it’s the perfect time to reinforce polite walking. We practice soft leash handling, reward calm walking, and build your dog’s ability to check in even when there’s exciting stuff happening all around.

 

9. 🗣️ Clear Communication

These walks help humans learn what their dogs are saying and how to respond clearly. Whether it’s reading body language, responding with calm signals, or building cue fluency — communication is a two-way street.

 

10. 🌡️ Learning to Regulate Arousal

Perhaps the most important skill of all: dogs learn how to self-regulate. Whether they start too excited or too shut down, every walk gives them practice returning to a calm, thoughtful state. That’s the kind of emotional resilience that changes everything.

 

Come Walk With Us

Every week, we witness progress that goes far beyond obedience — we see dogs learning how to feel safe, stay calm, and enjoy the world again. We see humans growing in confidence and compassion.

And most importantly, we see teams becoming stronger together.

Whether your dog is fearful, fizzy, or just learning the ropes, our Beginners Group Walks are here to support you both with real-world practice, positive reinforcement, and a whole lot of heart. 💛  

All new clients start with a full Behavior Evaluation! 

Learn more here!

💬 Interested in joining our next Beginners Group Walk? 

Reach out and we’ll make sure you and your dog feel welcome, supported, and ready to take the next step. 💛🐾

📅 Beginner Group Walks held Tuesdays at 6 PM
📍Safe, supportive environment for learning
📨 Reserve your spot today by emailing: yooperpaws@gmail.com

Let’s turn your training into everyday confidence — one gentle step at a time. 🌟