Читать книгу The Trail Hound's Handbook. Your Family Guide to Hiking with Dogs онлайн

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BIG BONED It’s the loving dog owner who honestly evaluates her beloved, big-boned beauty. How much of your dog’s girth is macho muscle, and how much is love handles? Dogs carrying extra body fat will get a more intense, cardio workout. Watch for signs that she’s had enough.

Woolly Mammoth

A dog’s coat may also dictate what type of hiking suits him best.

Is your dog likely to be overdressed? Fido’s fur can help protect him from the sun’s burning rays, but it can also trap dangerous amounts of body heat. Carry extra water, and start your hikes early in the day, when temperatures are cooler.

When you return home, don’t forget to check all that fur for ticks and trail trash.

Under normal conditions, hiking dogs need at least two to three times as much water as they ordinarily drink at home. Crank up the heat and humidity, or the difficulty of terrain, and your dog will need even more. To avoid coming up short, it’s smart to turn back when half of your water supply is gone.

NATURAL HUNTER Breeds that are known as hunters, herders, or all-around workhorses are apt to relish the challenge of rough terrain and rambling trails.