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

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OLD FELLER Older dogs also appreciate some babying to accommodate their senior stamina, achy joints, and other health conditions that can come with age. Give the old guy every advantage. If arthritis slows your pack from the get-go, invest in a lightweight ramp that allows your dog easy access to the car, or stick to easy paths close to home.

Short, interesting hikes with frequent rests beat staying home alone any day.

Your dog would climb mountains to please you, even if it wasn’t so much fun. Just make sure that you don’t bite off more than your dog can chew.

Less active dogs should start slow—working their way up from the evening stroll to brisk walks and greater distances before doing any serious hiking.

To avoid injury and maximize the fun, dogs and humans alike need to be well exercised and in good physical condition before bagging the summit.

SHORT, STUBBY LEGS SHORT LEGS work harder to keep up with the pack, and dainty paws will find steep or rocky paths a challenge at any pace. Be prepared with a Plan B should your pup poop out before you do. A backpack-style pet carrier may be a worthwhile accessory for your smallest hikers.