Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese mountain dog, as the name says, is an Alpine native that does well outside, particularly in lower weather. This wooly-coated breed does not withstand heat or scorching summers, as well as other breeds.
This particular breed of dog is from Switzerland and is considered a working dog. The Berner was developed to pull carts across the Alps, so it’s no surprise that it makes an excellent climbing companion.
Owners who are new to the breed should be aware that this breed has some inherited health issues, including hip and elbow dysplasia1 and bloat. Before taking this dog on a mountain hike, have it examined by a veterinarian to confirm that intense activity is safe for it.
Overview of the Breed
- WORKING PARTNERS (AKC)
- HEIGHT: 23-28-INCHES
- WEIGHT: 79 to 110 lbs.
- COAT AND COLOR: Thick double coat. It has a longer outer coat and a wooly undercoat, black, rust, and white, with the chest and the patch between its eyes and the tip of its tail usually white.
- EXPECTED LIFE EXPECTANCY: 6–8 YEARS
The Siberian Husky
The Siberian husky is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts who like to take it easy. The husky has a humorous and distinct personality—mischievous, independent, and deceptively clever. The husky, which was developed in northeastern Asia, is inherently cold-resistant and at home on snowy mountain summits and colder weather walks. Its high energy level makes it a relentless hiking companion.
A husky needs continual mental and physical challenges (ideally on a timetable), or else he may become destructive or flee in protest. Because of this breed’s independence, obedience training is a major undertaking. For example, you should not expect a husky to hike off-leash until you have formed a strong bond with him and he has internalized the recall command.
Overview of the Breed
- WORKING PARTNERS (AKC)
- 20 to 24 INCHES HEIGHT
- WEIGHT: 35-60 pounds
- COAT AND COLOR: Alaskan Huskies have a dense, double coat that can be black, gray, white, or tan; markings can include black points, piebald, or pinto.
- EXPECTED LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12 to 15 YEARS
Retriever, Labrador
Labrador retrievers are easygoing dogs who like new experiences. Labradors are adaptable to a wide range of temperatures and terrain. Labs thrive in chilly climates and can endure heat as long as they have plenty of water. These canines’ water-repellent coats make them ideal partners for a refreshing plunge in a lake.
Labradors enjoy water sports and running. Because most Labs are easy to train and obedient, you should be able to take these pups hiking off-leash all year. This breed requires daily activity. Labs will release their pent-up energy in terrible ways otherwise.
Overview of the Breed
- GROUP: Sporting (AKC) (AKC)
- 21.5 to 24.5 INCHES HEIGHT
- WEIGHT: 55-70 pounds
- COAT AND COLOR: Black, chocolate, or yellow with a short, dense double coat.
- EXPECTED LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 12 YEARS
Vizsla
Vizslas frequently form close bonds with their owners. They are devoted to their work and enjoy it. These bright canines require ongoing training and entertainment to avoid boredom and destructive behavior.
These dogs enjoy having room to run, making them excellent hiking or trail-running companions. Positive reinforcement and socialization training are required to groom Vizslas into ideal companion pets. When properly introduced, they are patient and loving and get along with youngsters.
Breed Overview
- GROUP: ATHLETIC (AKC)
- HEIGHT: 21–24 INCHES
- WEIGHT: 44 to 60 lbs.
- COAT AND COLOR: A smooth, short, dense coat in many colors of golden rust.
- EXPECTED LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12–14 YEARS
Poodle
Poodles are hunting canines that were bred from water dogs. They are extremely intelligent and long-lasting dogs. There are three sizes of these dogs: standard, small, and toy. The toy size does not have the endurance for extended excursions, but the miniature can go around 5 miles, while the regular can go twice as far.
Poodles enjoy going for long walks and satisfying their owners. Poodles with long curls may survive cooler temperatures; in the meantime, you can trim down a poodle to go on summer walks.
Overview of the Breed
- GROUP: Non-sporting (AKC) (AKC)
- HEIGHT: Standard: more than 15 inches; miniature: 10 to 15 inches; toy: less than 10 inches
- WEIGHT: 45 to 70 pounds for a standard, 15 to 18 pounds for a miniature, and 5 to 9 pounds for a toy.
- COAT AND COLOR: Curly, dense single coat in a variety of solid colors such as white, black, gray, brown, and apricot
- EXPECTED LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12 to 15 YEARS
Harrier
If you’ve ever seen a painting of a rabbit hunt in Europe, the dogs on the canvas are harriers, named for their traditional quarry, hares. They resemble beagles but are larger. Their stamina is ideal for trekking because they can go all day.
Harriers might be headstrong, but with consistent training, you can train a harrier to be an amazing right-hander. They have a high hunting drive and may become distracted by a scent now and then. However, as long as your recall training is good, they should listen to you without hesitation.
Overview of the Breed
- HOUND GROUP (AKC)
- HEIGHT: 19 to 21 inches
- WEIGHT: 45 to 60 lbs.
- COLOR AND COAT: Thick, short coats and has three colors (black, brown, and white) or red and white.
- EXPECTED LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 12 YEARS
The Golden Retriever
In general, golden retrievers are intelligent, loyal dogs who retain their youthful enthusiasm throughout their lives. They form deep bonds with their humans, obey directions effectively, and enjoy an active lifestyle. Hikes, as well as swimming, are right up their alley. They are prone to joint problems, so check with your vet before embarking on a strenuous walk.
Breed Overview
- GROUP: ATHLETIC (AKC)
- 21.5 to 24 INCHES HEIGHT
- WEIGHT: 55-75 pounds
- COAT AND COLOR: Medium-length double coat with mild to dark gold highlights.
- EXPECTED LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 12 YEARS
Dalmatian
Dalmatians are distinctive black and white spotted canines that were bred to accompany horses, stagecoaches, and early fire trucks. It seems to be the reason that these canines can keep up with people on the trails, and they like the challenge. They can run for days and should be simple to train to be off-leash.
- Overview of the Breed
- GROUP: Non-sporting (AKC) (AKC)
- HEIGHT: 19 to 24 inches
- WEIGHT: 45-65 pounds
- COAT AND COLOR: White with black or liver patches on a short coat.
- EXPECTED LIFE EXPECTANCY: 11–13 YEARS
Word from Bone2travel
Even though most dogs enjoy being outside, you should keep some dogs off the hiking trail. This is not a breed-specific selection; rather, it is based on the dog’s age, physical health, and the weather conditions where you will be. Older dogs are more prone to diseases such as arthritis and kidney problems. Puppies should never be taken on long journeys. They are not fully grown, and extended walks may interfere with bone formation.
Brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs, such as pugs, boxers, and bulldogs, should avoid intense exercise since their respiratory systems tend to overheat.
A double-coated dog, such as a husky or Berner, may endure colder conditions better than a single-coated, short-haired dog. Greyhounds, whippets, and chihuahuas may not survive in cooler temperatures. Also, if you foresee hot weather, avoid hiking with your dog entirely. Heatstroke and heat fatigue is common in dogs.