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I am considering bringing my dog hiking and possibly build it up to camping overnight. Is there any essentials you recommend I should bring other than the obvious water bowls, food, leash, harness and blanket to sleep on? Are little booties, life jackets etc necessary purchases? Has anyone any other useful tips?
Edit: My dog is a husky, german shepherd type mix so he's a big fella, quite excitable and sometimes nervous. He has a very good recall most times.
Personally I'd just say start small and learn yourself.
This also heavily depends on your actual dog as well (partially) on his personality. Whether he's off-leash, where you go, etc.
Boots are often one way to protect the paws from harmful influences such as snow, ice, or salt water. Ever seen wolves with boots outside fairytales?
Try to learn how your dog reacts to different ground, then adjust accordingly.
If your dog gets problems with the paws directly related to the ground, get some boots. Otherwise I wouldn't bother. Your dog should feel far more comfortable and have a more secure stand without.
Other things like swimming vests I'd make it dependant on where you go. If it's a small dog or you expect fast flowing water, I'd think about getting one.
Only thing I'd really take with me is some good first aid kit for dogs. These usually include everything you need in case of cuts or other small wounds. Also plan ahead regarding potential vets near your hiking location, save their telephone numbers and addresses.
One more thing to consider might be local regulations. It's possible you're not allowed to have your dog off-leash during some time off the year and you might have to have clearly visible straps on your dog so hunters can associate it being with someone rather than straying.
The other answers are great and comprehensive. I'm commenting in answer form for emphasis.
If you're going into bear country (and most places are) have a can of pepper spray formulated for bears. The pepper spray could also be effective against other attackers.
This link covers it best REI dog tips
Yes the obvious but often camp version. For example a collapsible bowl. Not a blanket - they are heavy - get a camping seat pad. The bulk and weight adds up. If it is a big dog then get a pack for them. Let the dog sleep in your tent or get them a doggy tent.
If you are not going to get a pack then a harness with a handle. If the dog falls in water or a hole you need to be able to scoop them quickly. My dog is afraid of small bridges and I have to carry him.
Kevlar socks are essential in many regions. Thorn, burrs, and sharp rocks.
Check the dogs feet often. A burr or cut can get injected.
A point I haven't seen made yet: Just as with humans, start exercise in smaller doses and work up to longer hikes. Think of it like hiking with a kid; the dog doesn't know how far you plan to go today and you don't want them getting exhausted early and forcing you to carry them. They need to build up endurance and learn to pace themselves; you need to learn to read how tired they are getting.
And, obviously, before letting them off leash make sure that's permitted... and be prepared to jump in and control the dog if it gets into an awkward interaction with another dog or another human.
