View Full Version : Bernese Mountain Dog on a thru-hike
MtnDogHiker
06-27-2010, 16:33
hey everyone! I'm currently training and planning for my 2011 SoBo thru-hike. I want to take my 3 Year old Bernese Mountain Dog with me so we are training in the whites all of this summer and into fall and winter. She is a natural hiker and automatically stays on the trail directly behind me at all times, she does not disturb wildlife and obeys my every command. I have hiked Cardigan; Moosilauke, and the Lafayette/Franconia ridge loop with her thus far. and she handled it great with her large mountain smith pack. I have heard only negative things said on this forum about dogs on the AT but i have not heard about any Bernese Mountain Dogs hiking the trail. Has anyone encountered them on a long hike?
Old Grouse
06-27-2010, 16:47
I don't see how you can make many miles what with all the time it must take to brush your BMD.
One of the most easygoing breeds. Should be a great companion on your SOBO hike.
cowboy nichols
06-27-2010, 17:29
A Well trained owner and a well mannered dog is always welcome. I have hiked several decades always with a dog never had any problems Alway use a leash. Have a great hike with your friend.
Omega Man
06-27-2010, 17:30
There is this video on Youtube featuring a thru-hiker and his dog, Team Doggiebag if I'm recalling correctly ... The dog's name is Aldo, and he's a really great dog. Probably just as great as your dog is. Anyway, in this one video segment, it shows the hiker high atop this very rocky vista, both man and dog in high spirits, then, within ten minutes of the film segment being shot, Aldo finds a rattler...
The following series of video entries document the ordeal in rather dramatic fashion, I recall the palpable feeling of uncertainty and concern that had creped into this normally stoic traveler's voice as the team double-timed it back down the mountain into town to find poor Aldo some medical attention (dog's head was swelling to the size of a casaba melon). I'm sure at some point, the hiker found himself wondering if hiking with his loyal companion was worth it.
I won't spoil the ending of the story, I'm sure someone will offer the links to the videos in question, but my point is, would you want to chance your dog being bitten on the trail? In my neck of the woods, anti-venom is spendy, $1,200 per treatment. Food for thought...
Personally, I'm torn about hiking sections of the AT with my Boxer. Part of me says this is exactly what a dog is for and then, there is this other side that thinks the trail is difficult enough without having to worry about your dog. As you know, hiking with an animal impedes your options. Plus, as you mentioned in your post, the majority of AT hikers are not exactly what I would call, "Pro-hiker Dog..."
Cool AT Breeze
06-27-2010, 18:09
There is this video on Youtube featuring a thru-hiker and his dog, Team Doggiebag if I'm recalling correctly ... The dog's name is Aldo, and he's a really great dog. Probably just as great as your dog is. Anyway, in this one video segment, it shows the hiker high atop this very rocky vista, both man and dog in high spirits, then, within ten minutes of the film segment being shot, Aldo finds a rattler...
The following series of video entries document the ordeal in rather dramatic fashion, I recall the palpable feeling of uncertainty and concern that had creped into this normally stoic traveler's voice as the team double-timed it back down the mountain into town to find poor Aldo some medical attention (dog's head was swelling to the size of a casaba melon). I'm sure at some point, the hiker found himself wondering if hiking with his loyal companion was worth it
I won't spoil the ending of the story, I'm sure someone will offer the links to the videos in question, but my point is, would you want to chance your dog being bitten on the trail? In my neck of the woods, anti-venom is spendy, $1,200 per treatment. Food for thought...
Personally, I'm torn about hiking sections of the AT with my Boxer. Part of me says this is exactly what a dog is for and then, there is this other side that thinks the trail is difficult enough without having to worry about your dog. As you know, hiking with an animal impedes your options. Plus, as you mentioned in your post, the majority of AT hikers are not exactly what I would call, "Pro-hiker Dog..."
Here we go again. It's so dangerous out here we should just stay at home and watch nature shows.
solstice
06-27-2010, 18:28
I've rarely encountered Berners *anywhere*, let alone hiking! Beautiful, wonderful dogs.
I assume as long as your Berner's healthy in heart, eyes, hips, and elbows, then I'd wager she'd be ok. Know your dog's limits. With a dog on the trail, it isn't "Hike Your Own Hike," it becomes "Hike Your Dog's Hike." She might need a zero on a day you're feeling up. You might opt to shave her before the hike, so the fur grows back as the season progresses into autumn and winter during the SOBO.
And yes, most of the armchair hikers on this forum are anti-dog. Most people I have actually met on the trail are quite dog-friendly. I think a lot of the animosity is directed toward more inexperienced hikers and dog owners making rookie mistakes with their dogs. I personally love meeting dogs on the trail, but I just like critters (domestic, feral, or wild) in general.
MtnDogHiker
06-27-2010, 18:30
right! I agree with you cool at. there are risks associated with everything. my dog could be as easily be injured at the park by an aggressive dog as she would be injured on the trail. at least on the trail she is performing the duty she was breed for and loves to do. what is life without risk. some things are hard to do. life is struggle. if you do not get out and risk it what is it all for, watching life pass you by or experiencing a false reality through a LCD screen.
I was surprised at how quickly a couple of my dogs paw pads were torn on a recent hike on the granite pile known as Bigelow Mtn in maine. Hes a mixed breed of border collie and golden retriever for whatever thats worth and is more accustomed to walking on grass and soft woods. It was only a day hike but he came out limping and dragging ass some. torn pads from abrasions.
There are some areas out there that are really hard on dogs pads. The whites and some of maines rocky peaks come to mind. Grainte is course stuff for a barefoot dog.
But conditioning may help toughen the pads.
That would be my concern besides the occasional Porcupine.
Worth reading this link on caring for and reducing paw pads injuries. (http://www.gundogsonline.com/Article/reducing-paw-pad-injuries-in-athletic-dogs-Page1.htm)
Good luck, break her in easy.....
boarstone
06-27-2010, 20:02
Think feet--paws--trail tears them up fast...
shelterbuilder
06-27-2010, 20:29
I was surprised at how quickly a couple of my dogs paw pads were torn on a recent hike on the granite pile known as Bigelow Mtn in maine. Hes a mixed breed of border collie and golden retriever for whatever thats worth and is more accustomed to walking on grass and soft woods. It was only a day hike but he came out limping and dragging ass some. torn pads from abrasions.
There are some areas out there that are really hard on dogs pads. The whites and some of maines rocky peaks come to mind. Grainte is course stuff for a barefoot dog.
But conditioning may help toughen the pads.
That would be my concern besides the occasional Porcupine.
Worth reading this link on caring for and reducing paw pads injuries. (http://www.gundogsonline.com/Article/reducing-paw-pad-injuries-in-athletic-dogs-Page1.htm)
Good luck, break her in easy.....
There are several reputable companies that make "doggie booties" to reduce the possibility of pad-abrasion injuries. Not all dogs will take kindly to having "stuff" tied/taped onto their paws (yes, I've known some dogs that needed to have them duct-taped on -- NO, not to the fur; around the top of the booty!), but they are a GREAT way to keep paws safe from sharp rocks and crusty snow. Check at www.sleddogcentral.com (http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/www.sleddogcentral.com) for some of the manufacturers. Get the heaviest ballistic nylon cloth booties that you can find; fleece will not hold up.
As for rattlesnakes, porcupines, other hazardous critters -- KEEP ALERT, and keep the dog on a short leash at all times. They are naturally curious, and it can be their undoing.
MtnDogHiker
06-27-2010, 20:48
Thanks a bunch guys. i will definitely look into the doggie booties and other paw pad protection. she has some massive paws .
peakbagger
06-28-2010, 09:02
A real good test for the dog it the Jefferson to Madison traverse. (Caps ridge to Gulfside to Pine Link or the Daniel Webster scout trail If the dogs paws hold up on that section, they will hold up to most any section. More than few dogs have bween carried down from this area due to worn otu pads. Booties are great if the dog will use them. If you plan to use them buy 3 or four sets as the tend to disappear.
HeartWalker
06-28-2010, 09:41
I am currently at home healing from a broken ankle that happened on my thru this year. I am hoping to get back out there but thought I would share my thoughts. When I was planning my hike I was convinced to take my Flatcoated Retriever with me. He has been hiking with me for 7 years and is a great hiker.Most everyone advised against it but I was convinced. He is well trained. So I took him on a 3 day AT hike in January. I have to say others were correct. The biggest problem is you can't use the shelters and most of the time that is where you will want to be. Even hikers who normally tent will use the shelters when it rains.Thru hiking is one of the most physical and mentally challenging thing you will probably ever do and you need all of your energies focused on finishing. Having a dog will change that. Others have done it and you could to but it will make a challenging ordeal into an even greater task. I love dogs but for me mine was better not going. Good luck.
Is it possible to take your dog with you for the whole AT? I've read that there are certain areas off limits to dogs?
Is it possible to take your dog with you for the whole AT? I've read that there are certain areas off limits to dogs?
No. They aren't allowed in Baxter State Park or the Smokys.
mark schofield
06-28-2010, 12:24
Hey Omega Man; checkout some sites with info on Boxers and tolerance to heat. I have a Boxer/Sharpei mix mut. Real friendly and easy to train but when it gets hot she shuts down. Boxers are supposed to be heat intolerant. I love dogs.
Rocket Jones
06-28-2010, 20:10
I told a co-worker about this thread, his fiance is a Berner breeder. First thing he said was, "They don't like it hot. They're not bred for the heat." I'd be wary of high summer hiking with this breed.
Bama Jack & Sadie
06-28-2010, 20:45
I only hike with my dog (hound/retriever) and yes it can be dangerous. We had an incident with a copperhead in N. Ga. last fall. If it wasn't her, it would have been me. If she could 'speak' (pardon the pun) she would say 'take me hiking' every time. Those that have trained their dog to be a hiker and trained themselves to be a good dog owners know that there is no better hiking companion. Take your pooch and enjoy the trail. Be safe and Sadie ('Princess') says to bring lots of Slim Jim's.
Thanks Phreak! That's what I thought!
sasquatch2014
06-29-2010, 21:50
There is this video on Youtube featuring a thru-hiker and his dog, Team Doggiebag if I'm recalling correctly ... The dog's name is Aldo, and he's a really great dog. Probably just as great as your dog is. Anyway, in this one video segment, it shows the hiker high atop this very rocky vista, both man and dog in high spirits, then, within ten minutes of the film segment being shot, Aldo finds a rattler...
The following series of video entries document the ordeal in rather dramatic fashion, I recall the palpable feeling of uncertainty and concern that had creped into this normally stoic traveler's voice as the team double-timed it back down the mountain into town to find poor Aldo some medical attention (dog's head was swelling to the size of a casaba melon). I'm sure at some point, the hiker found himself wondering if hiking with his loyal companion was worth it.
I won't spoil the ending of the story, I'm sure someone will offer the links to the videos in question, but my point is, would you want to chance your dog being bitten on the trail? In my neck of the woods, anti-venom is spendy, $1,200 per treatment. Food for thought...
Personally, I'm torn about hiking sections of the AT with my Boxer. Part of me says this is exactly what a dog is for and then, there is this other side that thinks the trail is difficult enough without having to worry about your dog. As you know, hiking with an animal impedes your options. Plus, as you mentioned in your post, the majority of AT hikers are not exactly what I would call, "Pro-hiker Dog..."
I have hiked with Doggie Bag a number of times and Aldo is a real champ. I do have to say that their experience has made me make some choices that as a section hike I have a bit more flexibility with. while there are snakes in many states some like NJ/PA are a bit thicker and better known for them and so I will tend to hike these states during times when the snakes are not real active. There is always the risk that Hank will meet a pit viper when we are making one of our many trips around here in the summer but if I can reduce risk why not.
I've rarely encountered Berners *anywhere*, let alone hiking! Beautiful, wonderful dogs.
I assume as long as your Berner's healthy in heart, eyes, hips, and elbows, then I'd wager she'd be ok. Know your dog's limits. With a dog on the trail, it isn't "Hike Your Own Hike," it becomes "Hike Your Dog's Hike." She might need a zero on a day you're feeling up. You might opt to shave her before the hike, so the fur grows back as the season progresses into autumn and winter during the SOBO.
And yes, most of the armchair hikers on this forum are anti-dog. Most people I have actually met on the trail are quite dog-friendly. I think a lot of the animosity is directed toward more inexperienced hikers and dog owners making rookie mistakes with their dogs. I personally love meeting dogs on the trail, but I just like critters (domestic, feral, or wild) in general.
Having had a Bernese mix and living where it could get triple digits we shaved in the late spring and he had a good coat going again by the fall. He loved it as it was so much cooler and easier on burrs as well.
If you are concerned, be on the lookout for Snake Avoidance Clinics. My dog training club is running one near Austin, TX on Aug 21st.
It teaches the dog to avoid snakes by sight, sound (rattlers) and smell. Live snakes that strike but cannot bite are used.
sasquatch2014
06-30-2010, 18:02
If you are concerned, be on the lookout for Snake Avoidance Clinics. My dog training club is running one near Austin, TX on Aug 21st.
It teaches the dog to avoid snakes by sight, sound (rattlers) and smell. Live snakes that strike but cannot bite are used.
Some of the private hunting clubs around here have them but you have to be a member and I have other plans for that $50,000 when I earn it.
My club charges $45 and is open to anyone.
randomroads
07-12-2010, 11:01
No. They aren't allowed in Baxter State Park or the Smokys.
So what are you supposed to do when you hit these areas? Go back home? What if you can't afford to board your dog for 3-6 months?
Rocket Jones
07-13-2010, 12:01
So what are you supposed to do when you hit these areas? Go back home? What if you can't afford to board your dog for 3-6 months?
Then you go home.
randomroads
07-14-2010, 16:55
Thank you for being unhelpful, but I did finally find the information I was looking for. In fact, it was posted on this forum, back in 2005.
ATsawyer
07-14-2010, 17:24
I had a guy interested in overseeing a trail in Shenandoah, but he wanted to bring his dog along on the work trip. We started DOWN Upper Hannah Run trail on a typical 80+ degree summer day for a 4-mile out and back hike. The dog was OK with the downhill, but coming back up to Skyline Drive, he was having a hard time of it. The dog was not old and the owner had brought plenty of water. We nearly had to carry that dog the last 1/4 mile.
Suggest you do a shorter hike in hot weather to see how he does before setting off on a long trek.
Dirty Nails
07-23-2010, 01:40
Mtndoghiker,
I just returned from a 300mi, 5 week, A.T. trip in Va. I saw quite a few dogs along the way. I saw about 2 or 3 dogs that were happy and doing well after hiking 15+ miles per day. That's out of the dozens of dogs that I saw hiking. Unfortunately, the rest were worn and hurting.
The few doing well were smaller and lighter built, around 30 lbs or so. The larger dogs just can't disipate heat well, and lack the agility and endurance. It will also put quite a beating on the dogs joints. Even with healthy hips, it's mostly his shoulders that will take a pounding on the descents.
I know because I have a 60lb Akita that LOVES hiking. I take her every chance I get and she has several hundred miles under her collar. She is well trained, and the best hiking buddy I ever had. But I'm glad I didn't take her on this long trip, she would have been miserable! The longest she ever did was 1 week, and that was in cool weather. She would not have tolerated the heat.
I work dogs in competition obedience, schutzhund and other disciplines. The bigger dogs just get tired/worn quickly, even when in good shape, including mine.
Also remember you will not be able to take him/her into resturaunts, hostles, or even grocery stores. And I personally entrust my dog to basically NO ONE. Even if you think you will have a trustworthy buddy to watch him while you shop or try to get a shower, you can't be sure that person will make the whole trip. I've seen people tie the dog outside stores and eateries unattended, but not me! You can never be sure someone won't tease him, feed him something dangerous, or even steal him. And he can't go on the A/T in the Smokies or in Baxter St. Park. The poeple that thru hike are using kennel services that pick the dog up at one end of the restricted area, kennel the dog, then deliver him to you at the other end. For me, the only safe place for my dog is with me or at home.
No one loves to have their canine pal along more than I do. I feel that letting the dog lie around the house without enrichment is the greater evil than the risks of porcipines, skunks, snakes, poisons/garbage and foolish people. But before attempting such a feat, make sure your dog can do a trip of several weeks. Also consider getting the dog home if he can't do it. He can't just hop a plane or train. What will you do if he gets hurt or sick?
The most disturbing thing I saw was the many posters in stores and hostles pleading for help in finding lost dogs. I saw dozens of them. In fact, when I was descending Dragon's Tooth, another hiker told me she saw a distressed dog at the top obviously lost and scared (there was no one else up there). I was tempted to go back up and try to bring him down, but realized I couldn't because it was tough enough to get myself down and it started to pour a torrent!
It's wonderful to take the dog along, but I stick to shorter trips in the cooler seasons.
Whatever you decide, keep your dog safe and healthy. Good luck.
Kelleelynn
07-23-2010, 03:32
Here we go again. It's so dangerous out here we should just stay at home and watch nature shows.
Thanks for making me laugh!!!! :D
did i miss it? seems like a sobo with a late start would be great for the pooch -- hike in cool to cold weather.
my daughter's boy friend has a bernese... whenever it's inside my house i absolutely know the perfect place for him is on the trail!
A Well trained owner and a well mannered dog is always welcome. I have hiked several decades always with a dog never had any problems Alway use a leash. Have a great hike with your friend.
I am contemplating a hike of the AT in 2011. My gut instinct is to have my dog on a leash at all times because he is such a huge beast he is intimidating (100lb German Shepherd). But, I am concerned about areas in New England where I will have to climb. How do you do that with a dog on a leash? I could see either of us falling because of the leash.